The Massachusetts State Police mourn the passing of Sergeant Douglas A. Weddleton, who was killed in the line of duty while enforcing traffic safety laws on Route 95 in Mansfield in the early morning of Friday, June 18, 2010. A 27-year veteran of the Department, Sergeant Weddleton was assigned to Station H-3, the Foxboro Barracks, at the time of his death. He previously served many years in the Firearm Identification Section, where he helped bring numerous violent criminals to justice through his work as a ballistician. During his career. Sgt. Weddleton earned two Department commendations for his role in capturing dangerous suspects. He was devoted to the State Police, but even more devoted to his family. Sergeant Weddleton, who was 52, leaves his wife Judith and four sons, Stephen, Mark, Ross and Matthew.
"Sergeant Weddleton was a devoted father of four, husband, son, and brother and an esteemed and respected member of the Massachusetts State Police who died in service to the people of the Commonwealth," said Colonel Marian J. McGovern, Superintendent of Department. "Sergeant Weddleton will be greatly missed by his family and those who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they grieve the loss of this outstanding State Police officer who devoted his life to his family and to the safety of his community. Sergeant Weddleton served the Department in exemplary fashion and with complete dedication to the protection of the public and to his fellow troopers. Not only did Sergeant Weddleton die a hero, but he lived his life as one also. Sgt. Douglas Weddleton will live on forever among the ranks of those brave police officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duties. He was a dedicated police officer, and even more importantly, a devoted husband and doting father. There is no greater legacy a man can leave."
Sergeant Douglas Weddleton was the 31st Massachusetts State Trooper killed in the line of duty.