Steven Albert Poetker
1976
Steven Albert Poetker. Steven served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Patrolmen Steven Poetker and Sonny Allen were killed when their vehicle was struck by a train at an unguarded crossing near Waldo. The two were returning from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in East Camden, Arkansas. They had just joined their department chief in a chase when the accident occurred. Patrolman Poetker had graduated from the academy at 1:00 pm, and the accident occurred shortly after 2:00 pm. The department only had three officers at the time of their deaths.
Survivors
Patrolman Poetker was survived by his wife, parents, and two brothers.
Shared stone
Service Record
1972 – 1976
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
Waldo Police Department
Patrolman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtn88k1jahmnv5572xc3y
Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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