Ronald Hearn was 49 and serving as a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Police officer when he was shot and killed at the Bronx VA Hospital on July 25, 1988. He was stationed at a metal detector at the entrance when an alarm sounded as a man tried to pass through. As Hearn moved to investigate, the man produced a firearm and shot him. The bullet entered Hearn’s side between the panels of his protective vest and proved mortal.

At the time, Veterans Affairs Police officers were not armed while on duty. No further details about the shooter, possible accomplices, or any arrests or court outcomes are given. If anyone has information about that day or knew Officer Hearn, please share what you know.