Downers Grove Police Department Remembers Fallen Officer

Downers Grove police displayed black ribbons Monday in memory of Richard Barth, a village police officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty 39 years ago.

In a letter to all Downers Grove Police Department staff last week, Chief Robert Porter detailed "the most tragic day in the history of the police department," March 18, 1974.

That day, Barth was handling what appeared to be a routine call of two suspicious youths in what is now known as Hoopers Hollow Park. While he was questioning the youths, one of the subjects, Paul Fontani, produced a handgun and fatally shot Barth.

The two subjects were later arrested and convicted of first-degree murder. Both are now out of prison.

Porter said Barth's death serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with law enforcement.

"Officer Barth is one of 19,000 brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our nations streets," Porter said. "We can never forget the sacrifices that these officers have made while faithfully discharging their duties."

As a tribute to Barth, all Downers Grove police officers wore a black band on their badges Monday, and also observed a moment of silence at each roll call. Black ribbons were placed on the antennas of all squad cars.

In his letter, Porter urged his officers to be "cautious, diligent and professional" as they carry out their duties serving and protecting the community.

"In these unsettling times it is vitally important that as police officers you should never 'let your guard down' when you come to work each day," Porter said. "Police officers across the country have been slain at an alarming rate. Please be cognizant of this fact and be very careful while faithfully protecting and serving the public."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

There are plenty of ways to keep up on Downers Grove news:

• Sign up for our daily email newsletter

• Like us on Facebook for a slightly different take