END OF WATCH: March 13, 2010
Cleveland Heights Police Department
Age: 30 | Badge# 345 | Tour of Duty: 9 years
Incident Details
Cause of Death: Heart attack
Date of Incident: Saturday, March 13, 2010
Weapon Used: Not available
Suspect Info: Not available
Officer Thomas Patton died from a heart attack after collapsing while chasing a suspect.
Officer Patton responded to assist another officer who was in foot pursuit of a suspect who had been harassing two women inside a convenience store. When that officer tried to make an arrest, the suspect spit in his face and fled on foot. The officer pursued and called for assistance. Officer Patton responded and joined in the pursuit, which went through the woods and several backyards.
At Glenmont Road and Mayfield Road, Officer Patton bent over, rested his hands on his knees for a moment and then continued running. He collapsed shortly after.
He was transported to Huron Hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.
Officer Patton had served with the Cleveland Heights Police Department, for seven years. He is survived by his daughter.
Agency Contact Information
Cleveland Heights Police Department
40 Severance Circle
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Phone: (216) 291-4974
Please contact the Cleveland Heights Police Department for funeral arrangements or for survivor benefit fund information.
