Conservation Officer James Dallas Pitzer

James Dallas Pitzer

Conservation Officer James Pitzer was shot and killed while investigating two men who were illegally hunting rabbits in Jay County.

One of the men was a recent parolee who served 31 years for murder and feared he would be sent back to prison. He then shot and killed Conservation Officer Pitzer, who died instantly from a single shotgun blast which struck him in the head. There was no indication of a robbery, but Conservation Officer Pitzer's .38-caliber service revolver had been ripped from its holster and was not found at the scene.

Conservation Officer Pitzer had served with the Indiana Department of Conservation for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

The Indiana Division of Natural Resources - Division of Law Enforcement's highest commendation award is named the Pitzer Award in honor Officer Pitzer and is awarded annually.