Fallen Officers
Officer Ronald T. Tsukamoto
Sworn in: October 1, 1969
End of Watch: August 20, 1970
End of Watch: August 20, 1970
Officer Ronald Tsukamoto was shot and killed during a traffic stop.
On August 20, 1970, Ofc. Tsukamoto stopped a motorcyclist for a traffic violation at University Ave and McGee St. Ofc. Tsukamoto decided not to issue the man a citation and the two men began a conversation. Soon after, another man showed up and joined in the conversation. Without provocation, the second man pulled out a gun, fatally shot Ofc. Tsukamoto and fled to a vehicle waiting nearby.
The case remained unsolved for decades until 2004, when a suspect was arrested for Ofc. Tsukamoto’s murder. However, the District Attorney declined to press charges, citing a lack of evidence.Ofc. Tsukamoto was 28 years old and had been with the Berkeley Police Department for 9 months.
In 2000 the Berkeley Police Department moved to 2100 MLK Jr. Way and named the new building “The Ronald Tsukamoto Public Safety Building”. The Northern California Asian Police Officers Association grants a yearly scholarship in Ofc. Tsukamoto’s honor.
Sergeant Jimmie H. Rutledge
Sworn in: November 16, 1950
End of watch: June 16, 1973
End of watch: June 16, 1973
Sergeant Jimmie Rutledge was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a prowler.
On June 16th, 1973, officers responded to the area of Russell and Fulton St. regarding a prowler. Officers were unable to locate the prowler and left the area. However, Sgt. Rutledge remained in the area, spotted the prowler and attempted an arrest. The prowler resisted, gained control of Sgt. Rutledge’s gun and fatally shot him. He then forced his way into a nearby home and took hostages. He killed a four year old hostage before being shot and killed by other officers.
Sergeant Rutledge was 50 years old and had been with the Berkeley Police Department for 23 years.
A memorial currently stands in his honor in front of the Ronald Tsukamoto Public Safety Building.