This week, the Trumbull Police Department is recognizing a solemn anniversary that marks the death of a part-time officer on November 1st. The occasion is a grim reminder of the hazards that police officers face on a daily basis, even while they are conducting the most routine duties.
On November 1, 1974 at 5:50 p.m., Special Trumbull Police Officer John Montabana was directing traffic on Route 8, at the entrance to the Trumbull Industrial Park near Merritt Boulevard, when he was struck by a passing vehicle. Officer Montabana succumbed to his injuries the following day at Bridgeport Hospital at the age of sixty (60). He is survived by his wife, son, brother, and two sisters.
At the time of his death, Officer Montabana had served with the Trumbull Police Department for two- and one-half years. A plaque to honor the memory of Officer John J. Montabana is on display inside the Trumbull Police Department lobby to recognize his loss, and to remind others of the sacrifice of officers throughout the country who die each year in the line of duty.
Special Officer Montabana is also memorialized at the Connecticut Law Enforcement Memorial located at the police training academy in Meriden, along with the names of one hundred fifty-two (152) other fallen Connecticut police officers who have died in the line of duty.
Never to be forgotten, Special Police Officer John J. Montabana - EOW 11/02/1974. (End of watch, or EOW is a term used to signify the death of an officer.)
This somber occasion also highlights the danger of traffic safety and distracted driving, in a time where drivers are bombarded with constant distractions. The Police Department would like to remind all drivers:
- Keep your attention on the road
- Limit the use of cellphones while driving
- Move over when approaching stopped emergency vehicles
- Lower your speed in construction zones, and
- Always follow the signals of an officer who is directing traffic