Deputy Sheriff Ted Duke Horton

Ted Duke Horton

Deputy Sheriff Ted Horton was killed in a helicopter crash while he and another deputy conducted a narcotics search over a wooded area near Louisburg.

The helicopter, a Hughes 269A, experienced mechanical problems shortly after taking off from a field near the sheriff's office. As the pilot attempted to make an emergency landing in a clearing the main rotor struck pine trees on the edge of a clearing. The helicopter then fell 30-feet, landing on its left side. Deputy Horton, who was an observer during the flight, was killed. The pilot suffered non-fatal injuries.

Deputy Horton is survived by his wife and mother.