Pike County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky
End of Watch: Tuesday, May 15, 1979
Age: 62
Tour of Duty: 35 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: May 15, 1979
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Acquitted on insanity plea
Deputy Earl Smith was shot and killed while attempting to serve a warrant. The suspect's sister had the warrant taken out on the man. As Deputy Smith approached the back door the suspect fired through the screen, striking him. The suspect then shot him five more times. The suspect pled not guilty by reason of insanity and was acquitted.
Deputy Smith had been with the agency for 35 years and was survived by his wife, 12 children, and several grandchildren.