Richard Champion - Law Enforcement - Pennsylvania

Richard Champion

Police Officer Richard Champion, age 36, of Ligonier, Pennsylvania, died in the line of duty on December 14, 2014, in Perry Township, Pennsylvania.

Officer Champion was a member of the Perryopolis Borough Police Department. He had 8 months of part-time service with the Perryopolis P.D. and also worked part time for the Derry Borough P.D.

At about 1:00 p.m., Richard was pursing a vehicle on a roadway in Perry Township. During the pursuit another vehicle swerved in front of the patrol car causing a collision. Richard was unconscious and trapped in the patrol car which caught on fire. Several citizens tried to break the windows and put out the flames but were unable to free him from the wreckage. Tragically, he died at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle which collided with the patrol car is Andy Bohatch, age 69, of Uniontown.  He was taken to a hospital in serious condition.

The driver of the vehicle that was initially being pursued continued to flee the scene

Michael, Archangel, Patron Saint
of the Police, pray for Richard
and for those who have lost him

and was not apprehended.

Richard was a military veteran.

The Perryopolis Borough Police Department is in mourning over the death of their brother. They describe Richard as an excellent officer who was a great asset to the department. He was a respected member of their team.  He will be forever remembered.

Richard's loved ones are devastated over his sudden and tragic death. He will be forever mourned.

Richard is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife, Dawn, and his 16 month old son, Tanner.

Thank you for your service to the community, Richard. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Pray for all who die by misadventure. They are with us one moment and are gone before we can say goodbye.

Pray that Richard is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.