Ralph Arthur Painter, 56, was killed in the line of duty on January 5, 2011, while serving as Chief of Police in Rainier, Oregon. He had responded to a call at a car stereo shop on Rock Crest Street about a man attempting to take a vehicle that did not belong to him. Upon arrival, Chief Painter encountered the man and a physical struggle ensued; the suspect disarmed Chief Painter and fatally shot him.

The shooting shocked the small community and deeply affected Painter’s family, including his brother Alan Painter, who has spoken about the personal toll of the loss.

Chief Painter is remembered for his service to Rainier and for the sacrifice he made on duty. Does anyone have memories of Chief Painter or information about the incident that could help the historical record?