Wildlife Officer Ray Lynn Barnes, a 31-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on November 21, 1987, while performing his duties for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. Officer Barnes was attempting to arrest an individual who was illegally hunting deer along the Shoal River, near the Okaloosa County-Walton County line. During the confrontation, the suspect managed to gain control of Officer Barnes' handgun and fatally shot him.
The suspect, whose identity is not
disclosed in the available sources, was subsequently convicted of third-degree murder. He received a 30-year prison sentence for his crime. However, he was paroled on October 31, 2004. Unfortunately, his criminal activities did not cease upon release. On December 20, 2007, he was returned to the Florida Penitentiary to serve a 35-year term following his third conviction for DUI, resisting and eluding officers, and driving with a revoked license.
Officer Barnes' death was a significant loss to his family, colleagues, and the community. He was survived by his wife and two daughters, who were left to cope with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. His dedication to protecting Florida's natural resources and his ultimate sacrifice have been remembered and honored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and his fellow officers.
