On a tragic day in Smith Valley, Nevada, 33-year-old George Rice, a Caucasian male, lost his life in the line of duty. On June 1, 1984, Deputy Sheriff George Rice of the Lyon County Sheriff's Office was responding to a call regarding a man firing a gun at vehicles near the Smith Valley School. The suspect had barricaded himself inside his house.
As Deputy Rice and three other officers attempted to approach the residence, the man opened fire. Positioned approximately 20 yards from the house, Deputy Rice was tragically struck in the head by a rifle shot. The shooter was identified as Jesse Marriezscerenas, a man with a history of mental health problems. In response to the escalating situation, a local high school, situated 500 yards from the gunman's home, was evacuated to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Law enforcement, including the Carson City SWAT team, surrounded the house. After a standoff that lasted into the night, Marriezscerenas emerged from the residence and was taken into custody. He sustained an arm injury during the arrest and was transported to a hospital in Reno for treatment and observation.
Following his arrest, Jesse Marriezscerenas pleaded guilty to the murder of Deputy George Rice. He was subsequently sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. Deputy Rice, a U.S. Air Force veteran who had served in the Vietnam War, had been with the Lyon County Sheriff's Office for three years. His law enforcement career also included service with the Nevada Highway Patrol and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.
