05/15/2026
Today, on National Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor and remember the life and service of Patrolman George Miller of the Clementon Police Department, who was killed in the line of duty on Thursday, May 21, 1942.
Patrolman Miller was shot and killed in an ambush while responding to a domestic violence call on Van Horn Ave. The suspect, John P. Lynch, a Justice of the Peace from neighboring Stratford, NJ, had reportedly threatened a local woman and returned to her home armed with a rifle.
When Patrolman Miller arrived on scene and stepped into the vehicle’s headlights, Lynch opened fire from behind a hedge, striking him and knocking him to the ground. Lynch, who had previously been arrested by Patrolman Miller, then shot him four more times in the back.
John P. Lynch was convicted of murdering Patrolman Miller and sentenced to death. That sentence was later overturned, and Lynch was resentenced to life in prison, where he died two years later.
Patrolman Miller served the Clementon Police Department for 19 years. He was survived by his wife and two children. He was 57 years old.
Today, we pause to remember Patrolman George Miller’s sacrifice and to honor the courage and dedication he displayed in service to the Borough of Clementon and its residents. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
