The Unsolved Mystery of a Detective's Bombing
Long Island, Patchogue, USAThu Feb 20 2025
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February is a tough month for the family of Dennis Wustenhoff. It's been 35 years since the Suffolk police narcotics detective was killed in a bombing. The anniversary is a reminder of the pain and frustration that his family still feels. The family is still waiting for justice.
Dennis Wustenhoff was a detective who worked undercover. He was driving his unmarked car on February 15, 1990, when a motion sensor triggered a bomb placed underneath. The explosion left him with severe injuries. A neighbor rushed to help, pulling him from the burning car. Paramedics hurried him to a helicopter, which flew him to Stony Brook University Hospital.
Wustenhoff was conscious and able to speak after the attack. But by the time his family arrived at the hospital, he had lost consciousness. He passed away about three hours later.
The detective's daughter, Jenn, shared her feelings on a Facebook group called "Justice For Dennis Wustenhoff. "She described February as a month filled with sadness, anxiety, and a deep void. She remembered the date of her father's death as a milestone she never thought she'd reach. She asked for continued support and strength from others.
Dennis Wustenhoff was 41 when he died, leaving behind a wife and three children. His family and supporters are still hoping for justice. The Suffolk police department and the Police Benevolent Association remembered him on the anniversary of his death. They urged anyone with information to come forward.
The family has added $35, 000 to the reward fund, bringing the total to $100, 000. This money is for anyone who can provide information about the bombing. Crime Stoppers is offering $30, 000, and the rest has been collected by the police unions. The family and supporters are determined to find answers.
The bombing happened during a time when Long Island was dealing with a lot of crime. The 1980s and 1990s were tough years for the area. The detective's death was a big loss for the community. It's important to remember that his family is still waiting for justice. The community needs to come together to support them.
The case is still open, and police are still looking for leads. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers' anonymous tipline at 1-800-220-TIPS.
https://localnews.ai/article/the-unsolved-mystery-of-a-detectives-bombing-bb6f1bc3
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