Chief of Police Silas Wilder

Silas Wilder

Chief of Police Silas Wilder and Deputy David Branham, of the Whitley County Sheriff's Department, were shot and killed when they attempted to arrest a man who was terrorizing local citizens.

When the deputy ordered the man to surrender, the man fired a shot that instantly killed the deputy. He then shot and mortally wounded Chief Wilder. Despite his wounds, Chief Wilder was able to return fire and killed the suspect. Chief Wilder succumbed to his wounds the following day.