Deputy Sheriff Ernest Prouty died from an internal infection resulting from a gunshot wound to the stomach and liver suffered seven weeks earlier.

   He and another deputy were investigating the illegal sale of gasoline and a subsequent stabbing at a gambling house in Newland. As they escorted two subjects from the home, occupants began shooting at the deputies who returned fire.

   One of the arrested men, an 18-year-old, grabbed Deputy Prouty's gun and shot him. He was taken to Jasper County Hospital where he died seven weeks later.

   The shooter and his 21-year-old accomplice, who were injured by gunfire, released themselves from their handcuffs and forced a motorist to drive them away.

   They were captured four days later near Hamden, Ohio, then extradited and charged with first-degree murder.

   Deputy Sheriff Prouty was the county's first deputy and only had four months to work to be eligible for retirement. He was survived by his wife and father.