Local Police Officers to Collect For Fallen Officer Derek Kotecki’s Family Before Penguins’ Game Saturday

Local police officers will hold a collection to benefit the family of fallen officer Derek Kotecki before the Penguins’ game against Buffalo Saturday at 7 p.m. at CONSOL Energy Center.

Officer Kotecki, an 18-year police veteran, was killed Wednesday in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a suspect. Kotecki is survived by his wife and two young sons.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Officer Kotecki, who put himself in harm’s way to protect his community,” said Dave Soltesz, president of the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation. “The Penguins are proud to cooperate with this collection and help his family, fellow officers and friends during this difficult time.”

Others involved in the collection will be the Western Pennsylvania Police Benevolent Foundation, F.O.P Loge 39 and the Allegheny Valley Lodge. Officers will be located inside CONSOL Energy Center gates before the Penguins’ game against the Sabres Saturday.

The Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund has been established for the Kotecki family, in care of the Fraternal Order of Police, Allegheny Valley Lodge #39. Donations should be sent to S&T Bank, 4251 Old William Penn Highway, Murrysville, Pa., 15668. Please make checks payable to the Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund.