What is the average age of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty?

The average age of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty is typically reported to be around 37 years old. This statistic reflects the age at which officers are often in the midst of their careers, having acquired the necessary experience and training, but still face the inherent dangers associated with law enforcement work.

Factors contributing to this average age include the career path and the typical length of service before an officer may encounter life-threatening situations. Also, many individuals join law enforcement in their mid to late twenties, spend a decade or more gaining experience, and thus find themselves in potentially hazardous situations around their late thirties.

While other options may reflect varying statistics, 37 is widely recognized in studies and reports as a key average that encapsulates the realities of law enforcement duties and risks.