Wildlife Officer Ray Lynn Barnes was 31 when he was killed on November 21, 1987, while working for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. He was attempting to arrest a person for illegally hunting deer along the Shoal River near the Okaloosa County–Walton County line. During the confrontation the suspect gained control of Officer Barnes’ handgun and fatally shot him.

Officer Barnes left behind a wife and two daughters. His death was described as a significant loss to his family, colleagues, and the community, and his service protecting Florida’s natural resources has been remembered by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and fellow officers.

If anyone remembers the incident or has information about the altercation along the Shoal River, please share what you know.