Deputy Sheriff John Dean Landrum, aged 52, was shot and killed on February 15, 1989, while responding to a domestic disturbance in Paris, Illinois. Landrum, who served with the Edgar County Sheriff's Department for 12 years, was fatally wounded in the chest by a .45-caliber handgun. The suspect, a 22-year-old man suffering from mental illness, had initially placed the gun down but later retrieved it and shot Landrum multiple times. Despite wearing a bullet-resistant vest, Landrum succumbed to his injuries.
The incident began when Landrum and his partner responded to a call involving the suspect and his parents. The suspect had been arguing with his parents, and the situation escalated when he brandished the handgun. Landrum managed to persuade the suspect to put the gun in another room, but the suspect later returned to the room and regained control of the weapon. Both deputies returned fire, killing the suspect.
Following Landrum's death, there were no further arrests or litigations related to the incident. The case was treated as a line-of-duty shooting, and the suspect was deemed to have acted in the heat of the moment due to his mental illness. Landrum was survived by his wife, three sons, two daughters, and 10 grandchildren.
In honor of his service and sacrifice, a memorial highway, the "Deputy Sheriff John D. Landrum Memorial Highway," was dedicated along Illinois Highway 150. Additionally, Landrum's badge number, 103, was permanently retired from service by the Edgar County Sheriff's Department.
Landrum's legacy continues to be remembered and honored by his family, friends, and fellow officers. His dedication to law enforcement and his ultimate sacrifice are commemorated through various memorials and ceremonies.
