Chief Deputy Sheriff Robert K. Hooker

Robert K. Hooker

Chief Deputy Robert Hooker was shot and killed as he and another deputy attempted to arrest two burglary suspects.

They located the two suspects based on information from a citizen. The two men led the officers on a short foot pursuit until Chief Deputy Hooker caught them and ordered both to surrender. One of the suspects produced a .38-caliber handgun and shot Chief Deputy Hooker twice in the head and once in the chest, killing him instantly. The other deputy returned fire, wounding one of the suspects.

Both suspects were able to escape after climbing a train but were arrested after a short time and later sentenced to life in prison.

Chief Deputy Hooker had served with the Clinton County Sheriff's Department for 21 years. He was survived by his wife.