Timothy J. Ruopp, a 31-year-old patrolman with the San Diego Police Department, tragically lost his life on September 14, 1984, in the line of duty. On that fateful day, Patrolman Ruopp and his colleague, Patrolman Kimberly Tonahill, were conducting a routine patrol at Grape Street Park. They encountered a vehicle containing two underage females and two males.
While Patrolman Ruopp was issuing a citation to one of the males for contributing to the delinquency of minors, Patrolman Tonahill began questioning the other male. Unbeknownst to her, the male suspect had a concealed handgun. As she initiated a search, the suspect suddenly drew his weapon and shot Patrolman Tonahill in the side, in an area not protected by her vest. The suspect then turned his gun on Patrolman Ruopp, shooting him in the leg and subsequently in the head, resulting in his immediate death.
The suspect, identified as Joselito Cinco, attempted to flee the scene but was eventually apprehended after a brief exchange of gunfire with another officer who arrived as backup. Cinco was wounded during the exchange but managed to escape deeper into the park. He was later captured and charged with the murders of Patrolman Ruopp and Patrolman Tonahill. Cinco was convicted on two counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. However, while on death row at San Quentin State Prison, Cinco committed suicide by hanging himself several years after the incident.
The deaths of Patrolman Ruopp and Patrolman Tonahill were a significant loss to the San Diego Police Department and the community they served. Both officers were honored with a double funeral, and their sacrifices are remembered by their colleagues and loved ones. Patrolman Ruopp, who had served with the department for two and a half years, was also a U.S. Navy veteran and an ordained minister. He left behind a wife and four children, who continue to mourn his loss and honor his memory.
