Deputy Sheriff John Cleary died from a gunshot wound he suffered nearly 15 years earlier when he was shot by a burglary suspect.

   Deputy Cleary had apprehended the man at his home and had arranged for the man to return the stolen money to the grocery store that was burglarized. When he let the man go into his home to get the money the man also slipped a revolver into his pocket.

   As the two men approached 5th and Ohio streets the 20-year-old suspect opened fire, striking Deputy Cleary in the chest and abdomen. He was taken home but doctors were unable to remove the bullet. Deputy Cleary made a slow recovery and returned to duty.

   The following May, Deputy Cleary and other officers located the original shooting suspect in a home at 5th and Eagle streets. As Deputy Cleary attempted a second arrest the man shot him in the leg and head but he was able to take the suspect into custody.

   His health continued to deteriorate until his death on April 9, 1892.

   Deputy Sheriff Cleary, from Terre Haute, had previously served as the 23rd sheriff of Vigo County after being elected to office as a Democrat in 1882 and 1884 to two, two-year terms.

   He was survived by his wife and 2-year-old son.