U.S. Army · United States 
James Severin
1970
James L. Severin served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Sergeant James L. Severin and Patrolman Tony Rizzato were shot and killed by gang members while patrolling community housing for an all-volunteer "Walk and Talk" project. As the officers proceeded across the Seward Park baseball field, the assailants opened fire from an apartment window. Both officers were mortally wounded in the attack. The purpose of the shooting was to seal a pact between two rival gangs. Three adults and one juvenile were later apprehended and charged with murder. The two shooters, ages 17 and 23, were convicted of murder and sentenced to 100 to 199 years in prison. In 2021, one of his killers was released on parole. Sergeant Severin was a United States Army veteran and had served with the Chicago Police Department for over 13 years.
Survivors
He is survived by his brother and two sisters.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Chicago Police Department
Sergeant
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
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Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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