Patrolman James Ratliff was shot and killed while at the scene of a domestic disturbance at the Wilson Oil Company.

   As Patrolman Ratliff approached an occupied vehicle at the business, a male subject opened fire with a handgun, striking him. Patrolman Ratliff was pronounced dead on arrival at Dearborn County Hospital.

   The 32-year-old suspect was subsequently convicted and sentenced to life in prison where he died while incarcerated in 1979.

   Patrolman Ratliff was survived by his wife, daughter, three sons, parents and four brothers.