Photo Courtesy Lowell Police Department

LOWELL — The Lowell Police Department was joined by family members on Monday as they dedicated a memorial Hero Sign to Officer Christos G. Rouses, who gave his life in the line of duty on November 17, 1978.

Officer Rouses is the last Lowell Police Officer to be killed while on duty.

Officer Christos G. Rouses was born in Lowell, graduated with the Lowell High School Class of 1943, and joined the Lowell Police Department 13 years later.

Officer Rouses and his wife, Stama, had four children: George, Sally, Sandy and Diana.

A painting of Officer Christos G. Rouses that is displayed in the Lowell Police Department. (Photo Courtesy Lowell Police Department)

Officer Rouses, who was a fixture in the Lowell community, was assisting at a fire on Princeton Boulevard on Nov. 17, 1978, when a silent alarm sounded nearby at Limby’s Pharmacy. Officer Rouses responded immediately, and learned that the store had just been robbed, with a suspect escaping out the back.

Officer Rouses pursued the suspect, caught up with him in the area of 11 Smith St., and was shot twice during a struggle. He died a short time later at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Superintendent Greg Hudon and several dozen members of the department were joined at a ceremony by Rouses’ surviving children, Rouses’ nephews, former State Sen. Steven Panagiotakos and Capt. Christopher Panagiotakos, as well as other family members. City Manager Thomas A. Golden Jr., City Councilor Sokhary Chau, and state Rep. Rodney Elliott were also among those who attended the ceremony.

“As a patrolman, Officer Rouses became a familiar sight at the busy intersection of Central, Market and Prescott streets — a true fixture of the community,” Superintendent Hudon said. “He greeted drivers with a wave and a smile, often recognizing them not by name but by the cars they drove and the routes they took. In every sense, he embodied the heart of community policing — approachable, steady, and devoted to the people he served.”

Steven Panagiotakos spoke of the pall that fell over Lowell in the wake of his uncle’s death, and of the way an outpouring of support from the community bolstered his family. A statue of Officer Rouses and a child stands today outside the Lowell Police Department headquarters.

Former state Sen. Steven Panagiotakos speaks in remembrance of his uncle. (Photo Courtesy Lowell Police Department)

“All of this has brought solace to the family and has been greatly appreciated, but it has also helped fortify our city,” said Panagiotakos. “Because when we remember our past, we strengthen our present, which brings hope to our future.”

The Lowell Police Department would like to give special credit to the Lowell Sign Shop for creating the memorial Hero Sign.

The Lowell Police Department is dedicating each memorial Hero Sign sign on the anniversary of the honored officer’s death. Fallen Officer Patrick F. Leavitt will be honored with another sign dedication on Dec. 18. The other Lowell Police Officers who have given their life in the line of duty are Officer John Joseph Winn and Officer George Pearsall.

“These signs will serve as more than just markers — they will stand as enduring symbols of the dedication and commitment our officers display every day, even in the face of danger. They are tributes to the officers who gave everything to ensure our safety, even at the cost of their own lives,” said Capt. David Peaslee. “Each year, on the anniversary of their passing, we will gather at these sites to pause and remember our fallen heroes. We encourage all residents of Lowell, particularly those in the neighborhoods where these signs will be placed, to take a moment of reflection when passing by.”

Lowell Police and members of the Lowell Police Motorcycle Unit stand at attention as they gather to honor Officer Rouses. (Photo Courtesy Lowell Police Department)