U.S. Army · United States 
Joseph Rafay
1967
Joseph Rafay Jr. served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Natural
Cause
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
What Happened
Lieutenant Joseph Rafay suffered a fatal heart attack while struggling with a suspect at the scene of a disturbance at a bar in the 700 block of East Railroad Street shortly before 10:30 pm. Lieutenant Rafay, another officer, and the suspect fell to the ground during the struggle as they were escorting the suspect outside. When Lieutenant Rafay stood back up, he collapsed. He was transported to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he was pronounced dead. Lieutenant Rafay was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and had served with the Verona Police Department for 20 years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife and child.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Verona Borough Police Department
Lieutenant
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtn8rd0geej53m57b333p
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Joseph. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Joseph.
Leave a Tribute