Deputy Sheriff Elmer Marion "Okie" Parmer

Elmer Marion "Okie" Parmer

Deputy Elmer M. Parmer was electrocuted while attempting to clear the roadway of a downed guy wire following a vehicle pursuit.

Deputy Parmer was chasing a car on U.S. Highway 24-40 about eight miles southwest of Tonganoxie when the car swerved into the oncoming lane of traffic and hit a motorcycle, killing the 20 year old driver.

After hitting the motorcycle, the car went into a ditch, striking a guy wire, which snapped. About 30 minutes later, Deputy Parmer and a truck driver from Texas, who had stopped because of the crash, were moving the guy wire from the highway. But a power line dangling from the pole apparently brushed the guy wire and sent an estimated 12,000 volts through the deputy, killing him. The truck driver was burned.

The 25-year-old driver of the vehicle Deputy Parmer had chased was jailed on charges of fourth-degree manslaughter, speeding, having an open alcoholic bottle, reckless driving, resisting arrest, and driving while under the influence of liquor. One passenger in his car suffered a head injury, and three other occupants fled the scene on foot, but later were apprehended.

Deputy Parmer is survived by his expectant wife, son, and daughter.