On September 25, 1965, Officer Michael L. Petrella was performing traffic control duties in the Memorial Bridge area in Washington, DC. During a rain storm Officer Petrella was thrown from his motorcycle when it skidded and he was then struck by a taxicab. Officer Petrella died of his injuries at George Washington University Hospital.
A native of Washington, DC, Officer Petrella was attending American University. He was 27 years old and had served on the United States Park Police for six years. He had been assigned to the Motor Unit for two years when the crash occurred.
We honor his service and commitment to duty.