Deputy Sheriff Leonard Burton Turner

Leonard Burton Turner

Deputy Sheriff Burt Turner suffered a fatal heart attack while transporting a prisoner.

Deputy Turner had responded to a disturbance at a dance hall and attempted to arrest a suspect for public intoxication. During the arrest, a struggle ensued, and Deputy Turner had to use his pepper spray. While transporting the prisoner to jail, the suspect attempted to kick out the rear window of the cruiser. At 1:00 a.m., Deputy Turner pulled over and called for backup. When other officers arrived, they found him slumped over the steering wheel.

Deputy Turner was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Goliad County Sheriff's Department for 18 years. He is survived by his wife, who also served with the Goliad Sheriff's Office, two daughters, and a sister.