Deputy Sheriff Gary Dean Murphy

Deputy Sheriff Gary Dean Murphy

Lake County Sheriff's Office, Illinois

End of Watch Tuesday, June 15, 1976

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Gary Dean Murphy

Deputy Sheriff Gary Murphy was shot and killed after responding to a report of a woman firing a handgun outside of her home on Muir Avenue in Knollwood.

The 51-year-old woman was upset that children were playing on a nearby school playground and fired her gun. As Deputy Murphy and another deputy attempted to disarm the woman, they were both shot, and Deputy Murphy was fatally wounded.

In June of 1977, the suspect was found not guilty by reason of insanity and committed at the Elgin Mental Health Center. She had a release hearing in 1985, but her release was denied after she made the statement that she was still a danger to herself and others.

Deputy Murphy was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had served with the Lake County Sheriff's Office for eight years. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 29
  • Tour 8 years
  • Badge 99
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Monday, June 14, 1976
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Not guilty by reason of insanity

EDP, shooting call

Most Recent Reflection

View all 32 Reflections

I would like to say Rest In Peace Deputy Murphy, but your shift has not ended. You have been reassigned to the toughest District you will ever patrol. Watch over us, as you patrol us. Keep us safe from those that would do us harm. You do not patrol alone in your current assignment. To many brothers and sister are reassigned to serve with you each year.

Your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your picture and badge hang on the wall as a reminder that you are helping to keep us safe.

You have not had a day off in 41 years. For 41 years you kept us safe 24/7/365.

You will never be forgotten.

Anonymous
LCSO

June 16, 2017

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