Theron Anthony Burnham was a 27-year-old deputy sheriff with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office when he was killed on January 9, 1981. He had served nine years with the department. At about 4:00 a.m. Deputy Burnham was dispatched to investigate a suspicious person walking along Drane Field Road near the Lakeland Municipal Airport. The suspect, already responsible for two earlier murders that night and under the influence of narcotics, overpowered Deputy Burnham and fatally shot him with his own weapon. Burnham’s body was later found in a ditch along Drane Field Road.

Responding deputies exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who initially escaped, prompting a massive manhunt. The suspect was apprehended the following day and identified as Paul Beasley Johnson. Johnson was tried and sentenced to death after three trials. Burnham is remembered for his dedication and service to the community.

If anyone knew Deputy Burnham or has information about his final shift, please share what you know.