Deputy Sheriff Barton Joseph Granier, 37, was killed in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, in the early hours of Saturday, January 27, 1996. Granier, a five-year veteran of the parish sheriff’s office, was attempting to apprehend a robbery suspect at about 2:00 a.m. when a brief chase and struggle occurred. During the altercation the suspect gained control of another deputy’s revolver and fired, striking both deputies; Granier was killed.

Responding deputies shot and killed the suspect, later identified as Bertrand Blake. Reports indicate Blake had recently been released from prison because of overcrowding. Granier was survived by his wife, daughter, and son.

If anyone remembers Deputy Granier, the events that night, or has information about the suspect’s actions before the confrontation, please share what is known.