Earl Smith

On a tragic day in Pikeville, Kentucky, May 15, 1979, Deputy Sheriff Earl Smith, a 62-year-old male, lost his life in the line of duty. A veteran of the Pike County Sheriff's Office for 35 years, he was attempting to serve a warrant at a residence when the incident occurred.

As Deputy Smith approached the back door of the home, the suspect fired a weapon through the screen door, striking him. The assailant then proceeded to shoot the deputy five more times. The warrant had been issued at the request of the suspect's own sister.

Following the fatal shooting, the suspect was apprehended and charged in connection with Deputy Smith's death. However, the legal proceedings took an unexpected turn when the suspect entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. Ultimately, the court acquitted the suspect on these grounds. Deputy Smith was survived by his wife and twelve children.