Patrolman Zichettella was on patrol duty, in Manhattan, when he was informed that a man was attempted to hold up a store on West 34th Street. Patrolman Zichettella went to the location and pursued the suspect. The chase went to a bus terminal on 34th Street, and then into Penn Station where the suspect entered a taxi cab. He was forced to exit that cab when it got stuck in heavy traffic. When he tried to flee again, Patrolman Zichettella, began to overtake him. The suspect then turned, which a .32 caliber revolver in his hand and fired one shot, striking Patrolman Zichettella in the face, killing him.

The suspect fled again, but was shot and wounded when he was confronted by two officers from the 18th Precinct. He was arrested and charged with murder.

The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life. He was paroled December 15, 2008.

Patrolman Zichettella was assigned to the 14th Precinct. He was survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.