Cheryl W. Seiden, a 33-year-old police officer with the Metro-Dade Police Department in Miami, Florida, tragically lost her life on July 28, 1982, following an incident that occurred on July 14, 1982. Officer Seiden was off duty and having dinner with friends when they were approached by an armed robber. The assailant, aware of Seiden's status as a law enforcement officer, produced a handgun. In an attempt to apprehend the robber, Seiden was shot in the neck.
The injury left her paralyzed from the neck down, and she succumbed to her injuries two weeks later.
The incident took place in a condo parking lot at 8002 Southwest 149th Avenue. Seiden and her friends were walking home when two men, who had been following them, attempted to rob them. Despite being off duty, Seiden produced her service weapon and tried to stop the robbery. Unfortunately, she was shot, leading to her paralysis and eventual death.
The 23-year-old suspect responsible for the shooting was apprehended and subsequently sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. As of November 26, 2020, the suspect remained incarcerated. Officer Seiden's death was a significant loss to the Metro-Dade Police Department, where she had served for eight years. She was survived by her husband and parents. Her bravery and dedication to duty are remembered and honored, as she is commemorated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall.
