Detective Jerome A. Stubig, a 40-year-old white male, was a dedicated member of the Chicago Police Department, serving for over 15 years. On April 14, 1969, he tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Detective Stubig, along with Sergeant James Schaffer, responded to a call at 9521 South Exchange Avenue in Chicago. They were investigating a series of bombings linked to a suspect named Frank J.
Kulak, a former marine known as the "South Chicago Bomber."
Upon arrival, Detective Stubig and Sergeant Schaffer were met with gunfire from Kulak, who had barricaded himself in his apartment. The initial gunfire injured two officers, prompting Stubig and Schaffer to ascend the stairs to assist. As they approached, Kulak threw a bomb, causing an explosion that injured both men. While they lay injured, Kulak exited his apartment and fired his carbine at them, resulting in their deaths. The incident escalated into a six-hour standoff involving hundreds of heavily armed police officers. Kulak eventually surrendered to Deputy Police Superintendent James Rochford.
Kulak was responsible for multiple bombings prior to this incident, including one in a department store that killed a woman and another in a railroad yard that killed a man. Following his arrest, Kulak was adjudged insane and committed to Chester Mental Hospital in Menard, where he remained until his death in 2014.
Detective Stubig's death was a significant loss to the Chicago Police Department and his family. He was survived by his wife, three sons, and three daughters. His dedication and sacrifice are remembered and honored by his colleagues and the community he served.
