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On October 17, 1963, Detective Robert Paris made the supreme sacrifice - he gave his life.
Detective Paris was assigned with Trooper Robert Forenski to investigate the burglary of television sets from motels on the DuPont Highway in New Castle, Delaware.
He was shot and killed while on a special burglary detail checking local motels. He and his partner encountered two men stealing televisions from rooms of a hotel at 3:40 am. When they approached the men a shootout ensued and Trooper Paris was fatally wounded by a shotgun blast.
The two suspects and their getaway driver were apprehended following a large manhunt. The shooter was sentenced to life. The the other two suspects were sentenced to 16 and 18 years in prison. The entire state of Delaware was shocked by this senseless tragedy. The following statement was issued by the Governor's office concerning Robert Paris' death: The death of Robert Paris is a misfortune of the greatest magnitude ''Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family and friends of this dedicated and courageous man who gave his life in the line of duty.' Mourners by the thousand paid tribute to Trooper Paris at his funeral at St. Elizabeth's Church. Father Karnis began the eulogy 'It is a divine command that men shall return to their maker' Trooper Paris died while serving as an instrument of Almighty God in keeping law and order. Policemen know what this job means and they love it as Trooper Paris did'' Robert Paris was interred for eternity in the All Saints Cemetery Wilmington, Delaware. He was survived by his wife, Sally Ann, and two daughters Kim and Beth. Kim is a graduate of the University of Delaware and is now Kim Paris Stitik. She has two children, Paul and Hunter. Beth Glyn Paris is a graduate of St. Francis School of Medical Technology and is employed by Dade International. Trooper Robert Paris enlisted in the State Police on May 1, 1959 and was assigned to Troop 2, State Road. |