ISP Remember Versailles Trooper Killed in the Line of Duty

Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 10:28 AM

By Indiana State Police, news release

It was 58 years ago today when Trooper William Rayner lost his life.

(Versailles, Ind.) - Today, we remember Trooper William R. Rayner, ISP-Versailles District, who was killed in the line of duty 58 years ago.

Trooper William Rayner was shot and killed after he and a Deputy stopped a vehicle at 3:00 am on Interstate 74 east of Greensburg in Decatur County.

The officers were unaware that the car was stolen and that its occupants were parolees away without leave from a state detention home in Louisville, Kentucky, when they began to question them. As they asked the men to exit the vehicle, one of the passengers grabbed Trooper Rayner and opened fire, killing him. The Deputy was able to return fire and kill one of the suspects. The other suspect was captured sometime later after an extensive manhunt.

We will always remember.

More from Local News

Events

Dearborn Co. Sheriff's Office Investigates Suspicious Activity in Bright

Currently, there is no direct threat in the area, but patrols have increased as a precaution.

Federal, State Leaders Break Ground on Historic Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project

The project is set to improve safety, local connectivity and national commerce.

One Injured in Paramotor Aircraft Crash

The incident took place Thursday evening in Osgood.

Three Straight No-Hitters for Milan's Bode

Milan is 19-4 this season.

Local Sports Report - May 7, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Former EC Basketball Star Earns Academic Awards

Hope Fox is a senior at Southern Connecticut State University.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Kenny Chesney - That's Why I'm Here

Thomas Rhett T-Shirt 14:52
Shania Twain Any Man Of Mine 14:45
Crystal Gayle Why Have You Left The One You Left Me For 14:42
Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan The Only Way I Know 14:36