During the course of the Arvada Police Department's history, four officers have been killed in the line of duty.
Officer Robert G. Beghtol Officer Beghtol started his career with the Arvada Police Department on December 15, 1958. He came to the Arvada Police Department after serving in the United States Army. On July 28, 1961, Officer Beghtol died during Scuba Diving Unit practice at the lake near 60th and Tennyson.
Officer W. Michael Northey Officer Mike Northey joined the Arvada Police Department on February 20, 1978. He was tragically struck and killed by a vehicle after he stopped two motorcycle riders on August 11, 1979. Not only is there an Arvada park named after Officer Northey, but also Arvada students are eligible to apply for scholarships each year in Officer Northey’s name through the W. Michael Northey Foundation.
Officer Gordon Beesley On Monday, June 21, 2021, an unspeakable tragedy took place in our community. During that terrible event, an Arvada Police officer gave his life in service to our community.
Officer Dillon Vakoff Officer Dillon Vakoff joined the Arvada Police Department in 2019. He was training to be a SWAT officer. Officer Vakoff came to us after serving six years in the Air Force. He was a 2012 graduate of Ralston Valley High School. He was killed in the line of duty while responding to a disturbance call on Sept. 11, 2022.