Probation Officer William Avery Sexton

Probation Officer William Avery Sexton

Columbus Division of Police, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, March 25, 1913

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William Avery Sexton

Probation Officer William Sexton drowned while performing rescue operations during the Great Flood of 1913, in which the Scioto River overflowed.

During the rescue operations, he fell from the rowboat in the area of Rich Street and Mitchell Street. His body was recovered several days later.

Approximately 500 people were killed throughout Ohio during the flood, including Captain Allen McGown of the Findlay Police Department.

Officer Sexton had served with the Columbus Police Department for eight years and was assigned as a probation officer for the Columbus Police Court. He was survived by his wife, father, and brother.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 8 years
  • Badge 6

Incident Details

  • Cause Drowned

water rescue

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! Please join me and honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Probation Officer William Avery Sexton of the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio and the additional 68 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

March 25, 2024

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