Michael Thomas Hartzell, a 26-year-old male police officer with the Youngstown Police Department, was tragically shot and killed on April 29, 2003, in Youngstown, Ohio. Patrolman Hartzell was returning to headquarters when he observed a suspicious vehicle at a red light. As he began to run the car's plate information, the driver exited the vehicle and opened fire on him. Despite being transported to St.
Elizabeth's Hospital, Patrolman Hartzell succumbed to his wounds.
The suspect, identified as Martin Koliser Jr., fled the scene but was arrested two days later in Pinellas County, Florida, by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the FBI. Koliser was found guilty of capital murder in November 2003 and sentenced to death. Tragically, he committed suicide in his cell at the Mansfield Correctional Institution on May 7, 2005.
Patrolman Hartzell had served with the Youngstown Police Department for three years and was well-regarded by his colleagues and community. He is survived by his fiancée, parents, and brother. The loss of Patrolman Hartzell was deeply felt by the community, and his dedication to serving and protecting others was remembered by all who knew him.
