Officer Ruffolo and another officer, John Goetz, were struck by a vehicle and seriously injured while investigating a vehicle struck during a hit and run in front of 4421 Prospect Avenue. The officers patrol car was parked parallel to the subject vehicle as the officers were speaking to the owner of the vehicle. Another swiftly moving vehicle struck the patrol car and pinned the officers against a parked car breaking both of each officer's legs. During his stay in the hospital, Officer Ruffolo had one leg amputated after it became infected and during his fight for life he received twenty blood donations from fellow officers. Officer Goetz recovered but Officer Ruffolo died from his injuries four months later at Vineyard Park Hospital.

The 22 year-old driver of the vehicle that struck the patrol car was sought for arrest following Officer Ruffolo's death. He was determined to have been drinking several beers at a party prior to the accident and was fatigued from being awake for more than 24 hours.

Officer Ruffolo, 44, was with the Kansas City Police Department for less than a year and previously served in the United States Navy on the U.S.S. Leary. He was a first generation American, both of his parents emigrated from Italy. He was survived by his wife, Louise Ruffolo and a sister, Clara. Parents: Benjamin and Carrie. Interred: St. Mary's Cemetery

Article by Brent Marchant