Kentucky Man Accused of Killing 3 Officers
A Kentucky man accused of killing three law enforcement officers during an ambush in a small Appalachian town has been found dead in his jail cell. Lance Storz, 50, died of an apparent suicide on Tuesday morning at the Pike County Detention Center, where he was being held on three murder charges.
The shooting occurred on June 30 when officers arrived at Storz’s home to serve a protective order. Storz, armed with a high-powered rifle, opened fire on the officers, resulting in the deaths of three officers and the injury of four others.
The scene was described by Floyd County Sheriff John Hunt as a “war zone” during long hours of the standoff before Storz surrendered. William Petry, one of Hunt’s deputies was killed when Storz opened fire on officers. Prestonsburg officer Jacob Chaffins died the next day of a gunshot wound while Prestonsburg Police Capt. Ralph Frasure was also killed.
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Storz’s death in jail has left the families of the slain officers with mixed emotions. While they had wanted to see Storz face justice in court, they also expressed relief that the legal process was now over. Sheriff Hunt expressed regret that his injured deputy would never get to see Storz face justice in court.
Police in Pike County are investigating Storz’s cause of death, and foul play is suspected. The tragedy has also highlighted the need for more resources and support for law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect their communities.
The loss of three officers in a single incident has sent shockwaves through the community, and their sacrifices will not be forgotten. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day and the importance of supporting those who serve their communities.
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