Officials identify Philly police officer who died after being found unresponsive in patrol car
Action News has learned she was a mother and married to a fellow officer of the force.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Officials with the Philadelphia Police Department have identified the officer who died after being found unresponsive in her patrol car on Friday night.
Police announced on Saturday the fallen officer was 44-year-old Lynneice Hill, a 24-year veteran of the department.
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President John McNesby with the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police released the following statement on Hill's death:
"It's with a heavy heart that we mourn the sudden passing of dedicated police officer, Lynneice Hill. Our friend and colleague served this city for 24 years with humility, distinction, and integrity. We pray for Officer Hill's family, friends, and colleagues with the Philadelphia police department. The FOP will never forget her dedication and contributions to the police department and her community."
According to Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw, witnesses found Hill unresponsive around 9 p.m. in her patrol car on the 1800 block of South Columbus Boulevard.
She was rushed to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Officials say Hill suffered a medical emergency while on duty, but further details were not immediately available.
Chopper 6 was overhead as a procession brought the officer's body to the medical examiner's office.
The officer was assigned to the 3rd District as a school officer.
Action News learned she was a mother of three and married to a fellow officer of the force, Officer Dennis Smith.
"I have had the opportunity to connect with some family in the hospital and to briefly speak with her husband while there. But I've heard nothing but amazing things about her dedication and commitment to the police department," Outlaw added.
Those who knew and loved Hill are still in shock following her death.
Smith told Action News that his wife was a superstar, his personal chef, his shopper, and his designer.
Action News was there in 2021 when Hill helped a nonprofit deliver groceries to families battling cancer.
At the time, she said giving back to others brought her joy, a value she shared with her family.
Action News was also there in 2020 when Smith delivered toys and food to families on Christmas morning.
Smith told Action News his wife did all the shopping each year for that Christmas tradition.
He said she was a beautiful soul, inside and out, and more than anything he will miss her giving heart.
