Deputy Sheriff Earl Smith, 62, was killed while serving a warrant in Pikeville, Kentucky, on May 15, 1979. A 35-year veteran of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, he was approaching the back door of a residence when the suspect fired through the screen door, striking him; the assailant then shot the deputy five more times.

The warrant had been issued at the request of the suspect’s sister. The suspect was arrested and charged, later pleading not guilty by reason of insanity; the court ultimately acquitted on those grounds. Deputy Smith was survived by his wife and twelve children.

If anyone has memories of Deputy Smith, the scene that day, or information that hasn’t been shared, please post or contact investigators.