Arthur W. Koch, a 34-year-old sergeant with the Fairfield Police Department, tragically lost his life on July 29, 1984, after being shot the previous day. Koch, who had recently been promoted to sergeant, was responding to a disturbance call at the home of Stan Veketis, a legless Vietnam veteran, when he was ambushed and shot with a high-powered rifle. The incident occurred at the 600 block of Berkeley Way in Fairfield.
Koch sustained massive internal injuries and succumbed to his wounds approximately nine hours later at Intercommunity Hospital.
The suspect, Stan Veketis, barricaded himself in his home following the shooting. After a tense seven-hour standoff, he surrendered to the authorities. Veketis was subsequently charged with first-degree murder. During the rescue operation, paramedics and firefighters faced significant challenges, including the need to use a stream of water to suppress the suspect's position while they retrieved the wounded officer. Despite their efforts, Koch's injuries proved fatal.
The case against Veketis proceeded to trial, where he was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Veketis remained incarcerated until his death in 2017. The murder of Sergeant Koch marked a somber moment for the Fairfield Police Department, as it was the first and only line-of-duty death in the department's history at that time.
Koch's death had a profound impact on the community and his fellow officers. Nearly 1,000 law enforcement officers from Northern California, along with hundreds of family members and friends, attended his memorial service to pay their respects. Fairfield Police Chief Charles Huchel and Mayor Gary Falati both spoke at the service, highlighting Koch's dedication to his family, his community, and his profession. Koch was remembered as a devoted husband and father, a respected officer, and a Marine Corps veteran who had served his country honorably.
The legacy of Arthur W. Koch continues to be honored by the Fairfield Police Department and the broader law enforcement community. His name is inscribed on memorials dedicated to fallen officers, ensuring that his sacrifice is not forgotten. The tragic circumstances of his death serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the ultimate sacrifice they may be called upon to make in the line of duty.
