Holly MatkinPhiladelphia, PA – Deptford Township Police Department (DPD) Officer Robert “Bobby” Shisler died in the line of duty on Sunday, nearly two months after he was shot while trying to apprehend a suspect during a foot chase.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office said the shooting occurred on Doman Avenue at approximately 12:45 p.m. on March 10, WPVI reported.
The 27-year-old officer was conducting a pedestrian stop on 24-year-old Mitchell Negron when Negron took off running from him, according to the attorney general’s office.
They got into a physical altercation during the chase, at which point Negron pulled out a gun and shot Officer Shisler in the leg, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
The wounded hero returned fire, striking and killing his attacker.
Sources said a fellow DPD officer applied a tourniquet to Officer Shisler’s leg before he was rushed to Cooper Medical Center in a patrol vehicle, WPVI reported.
He was later taken to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, where he underwent multiple surgical procedures, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
His grandmother, Ethel Hawkins, said his injuries resulted in the loss of a portion of his right leg, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.
Officer Shisler remained hospitalized until his death on May 7.
“It is with deep sadness we advise that earlier today, Deptford Police Officer Robert Shisler succumbed to his injuries he suffered in the March 10th, 2023 shooting incident,” DPD Chief Joseph Smith said in a press release later that day.
“Officer Shisler dedicated his life to the service of the residents of Deptford Township. He helped ensure the safety of our community where he was born, raised, lived, and worked,” Chief Smith wrote. “Today, the Deptford Township Police Department, along with Mayor and Council, mourn the loss of one of our own who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.”
Officer Shisler served the DPD for four years and was assigned to Platoon B, WPVI reported.
His brother and father are also law enforcement officers, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.
His murder marked the first line-of-duty death in the department’s history, CBS News reported.
“Our deepest sympathies are with the Shisler family during this difficult time of bereavement,” Chief Smith said. “Though nothing can take away the pain of his passing, Bobby’s incredible strength and bravery will be an unforgettable example of being Deptford Strong. He was the best of ALL of us.”
“Officer Shisler will always be remembered for his dedication and his commitment to the residents of this great community. We are extremely grateful and thankful for his service,” the chief concluded. “He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.”
A fundraising campaign established to help Officer Shisler’s family in the wake of their loss has raised more than $144,000 so far.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin released a statement extending his condolences to Officer Shisler’s friends, family, and colleagues, WPVI reported.
“His passing in the line-of-duty illustrates the risks facing law enforcement, and how every day when they put on the uniform, New Jersey’s police officers also put their lives on the line to make their communities safer,” Platkin said. “I am grateful for the service and sacrifice of Officer Shisler and police officers across our state, and saddened by this tragic loss. Please keep the Deptford Township Police and Officer Shisler’s family in your prayers.”
My deepest condolences to Officer Robert Shisler’s family, friends and his brothers & sisters in blue. May the love and compassion of those around you all bring comfort and peace in the days ahead. Rest in Peace, Officer. #NJ #DeptfordPD pic.twitter.com/HZZvMPGveq
— Senator Edward Durr (@EdTheTruckerNJ) May 7, 2023
HERO DOWN!!
So sad to hear this news as we have been keeping Police Officer Robert Shisler in our prayers. We send so much love and prayers to his loved ones and PD at this very sad time.
“When a Hero falls, an Angel rises.” #irishangel #blesstheblue #fallenheroPolice Officer… pic.twitter.com/1VB56FqlRO
— Irish Angel Inc. (@BlueIrishAngel2) May 8, 2023
First responders line up at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Procession is set to start soon for Deptford Twp. Police Officer, Robert "Bobby" Shisler. He died today after being shot in the line of duty back in March. @6abc pic.twitter.com/ETnwr8fwTJ
— Sharifa Jackson 6abc (@SharifaJackson) May 7, 2023
Deptford Twp. Police, @PhillyPolice & other NJ departments gather outside Philly Police HQ after a procession led Officer Robert Shisler to the Medical Examiner’s Office.
They saluted Officer Shisler’s family as they left the building @FOX29philly pic.twitter.com/g2WgFqhFcM
— Kelly Rule (@KellyRuleTV) May 8, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Deptford Township Police Department Officer Robert “Bobby” Shisler, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Officer Robert Shisler, your life mattered.
