Deputy Sheriff William G. Giacomo

William G. Giacomo

Deputy Sheriff William Giacomo was shot and killed by a subject whom he had just arrested for a DUI violation.

Deputy Giacomo had brought the suspect out of the holding cell at the sheriff's department and was processing him for a breathalyzer test, when he paused to answer the phone. When he turned back around, the suspect displayed a small pistol that he had concealed in his boot that was missed during his initial search. A struggle ensued and the suspect shot Deputy Giacomo in the head while the deputy was pleading not to be shot. The entire incident was videotaped on the department's monitoring system.

Another deputy entered the building several minutes after the shooting and called for assistance. Deputy Giacomo was transported to a local hospital where he died later in the day.

The suspect fled the scene and was the focus of a large manhunt by over 16 agencies. He was caught four days later and committed suicide in his jail cell, exactly two months after he murdered Deputy Giacomo.

Deputy Giacomo had served with the Nicholas County Sheriff's Office for two years and had previously served with another agency for one year. He is survived by his wife, parents, and sister.