REMEMBER: McKean County District Attorney Stephanie L. Vettenburg-Shaffer has shared a statement in memory of Kane Patrolman Steven Jerman, who was killed 21 years ago today:

“On Feb. 20, 2020, we pause to remember Patrolman Steven M. Jerman on the 21st anniversary of his death. His life was taken during the early morning hours of February 20, 1999.

His memory lives on 21 years later. His actions on that night are the epitome of heroic sacrifice. What was thought to be a routine traffic stop ended with the officer exchanging gunfire with his killer and sacrificing his own life.

We honor members of law enforcement and their families every day. And on this anniversary, we pause to remember Officer Steven Jerman and pray for his family. On behalf of the District Attorney’s Office and members of law enforcement throughout McKean County, I express our gratitude and vow to never forget what occurred 21 years ago. May he rest in peace.”

Jerman was killed by an occupant of the car during a traffic stop, but he managed to return fire and ultimately identify those responsible through those actions.

On the 20th anniversary of his death, his family shared thoughts with The Era. His daughter, Mary Dinger, shared that she is a nurse and her brother became a correctional officer in New York State.

The Kane community is still shaken by the loss of the officer remembered for being a second father and friend to many children and young adults in the borough.