Police Officer Kenneth Koch, age 41, died on October 26, 1984 at approximately 2:56 AM, after responding to a call for a crime in progress in the 7500 block of Genesta. Officer Koch spotted the subjects and gave foot chase. While chasing the subjects, Officer Koch collapsed to the ground. A homeowner witnessed Officer Koch’s fall and called 911.

Officer Koch was transported to St. Anthony’s Hospital where he was pronounced dead from a heart attack. Officer Koch became the fourth St. Louis County police officer to give his life in the line of duty.

Suspects in the original reported crime were arrested. They were tried and found guilty for the thwarted theft.

Officer Koch was born on January 19, 1943. He was an eighteen year veteran of the Police Department. During his career, he served in the Divisions of Patrol and Criminal Investigation. He received several letters of commendation and appreciation from the Department and the citizens he served.