Cop Collapses, Dies After Arresting Mall Shoplifting Suspect

A police officer who arrested a mall shoplifting suspect after a foot chase in suburban New York has collapsed and died.

Authorities say Michael Perry was pronounced dead at a hospital about an hour after arresting the suspect in downtown White Plains on Saturday afternoon. Perry was 43. The cause of death was unknown.

White Plains Public Safety Commissioner David Chong says Perry's death has shocked the police department to "the very core.'' He says it was the first line-of-duty death for the department in 60 years.

Perry was an over seven-year veteran with the White Plains police. He is survived by his wife and 6-year-old twin sons.

Authorities say Perry ran after the 53-year-old suspect after he allegedly stole merchandise from a Macy's at a downtown mall.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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