10/03/2026
Saturday, October 3, 2026, marks the 50th anniversary of the line-of-duty death of Paramus Police Officer Michael P. McEllen, Shield #306.
On the early morning hours of October 3, 1976, Officer McEllen was responding to a burglar alarm when he was killed in a motor vehicle crash serving the residents of Paramus.
Officer McEllen was a husband and father who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. He left behind his wife, Jean, and two young children. Fifty years later, his legacy of service continues through those children, Dr. Michelle McEllen and retired Detective Lieutenant Craig McEllen, who have each gone on to distinguished lives dedicated to helping and serving others.
While five decades have passed since Officer McEllen’s final tour of duty, the passage of time does not diminish the sacrifice he made, nor the loss experienced by his family, friends, fellow officers, and the Paramus community. His name remains permanently woven into the history and traditions of the Paramus Police Department.
In conjunction with PBA Local 186, the Paramus Police Department will fly the National Flag at half-staff on October 3, 2026, in solemn remembrance of Officer McEllen and in recognition of the 50 years since his sacrifice.
As members of this Department, we have inherited a proud tradition built by those who served before us. We have a responsibility to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to ensure that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.
I ask that each of you take a moment to remember Officer Michael P. McEllen, Shield #306, his family, and the legacy of service he left behind.
Fifty years later, we remember.
Fifty years later, we honor.
Fifty years later, we will never forget.
Please keep Officer McEllen, his family, and all of the families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty in your thoughts.
Respectfully,
Robert M. Guidetti
Chief of Police