Patrolman Thomas Ciecka died over 10 months after being struck by a vehicle at a school crossing.

   While directing traffic near Lincolnway and Teegarden Street in the afternoon, he was struck from behind by a vehicle driven by a 17-year-old boy.

   The extensive injuries to his left leg caused him to medically retire months later. His health continued to deteriorate and he suffered a heart attack while at home on September 5, 1962 before passing away at Holy Family Hospital.

   Patrolman Ciecka was survived by his wife and two children. His son-in-law served as chief with the La Porte Police Department and his grandson serves with the Michigan City Police Department. Two of his great-grandsons serve with the LaPorte County Sheriff's Department and Zionsville Police Department.