On January 15, 1988, Virgil Lee Bensyl, a 41-year-old Caucasian veteran Illinois State Police officer with 19 years’ service, was fatally shot in Oconee, Illinois during an attempt to arrest Raymond Ruhl. State police and correctional officers set up a ruse to lure Ruhl from his home by telling him drivers on Illinois Highway 51 needed help. When Ruhl arrived, officers approached his car and Ruhl opened fire with a 9 mm automatic handgun. Bensyl was fatally wounded and another officer, David McLearin, received a minor injury. Ruhl was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers recovered a large arsenal of weapons and ammunition from Ruhl’s home. Investigators said Ruhl had been distraught over his estranged wife leaving him and had allegedly discussed arranging a contract killing with an inmate at Vandalia Correctional Center. The district later honored Officer Bensyl by dedicating District 10 Headquarters in his name.

If anyone has information about the events leading up to the shooting or knew Officer Bensyl or Raymond Ruhl, please share what you know.