Sergeant Orrel Manuel was shot and killed at the Vincennes police station while investigating a hit-and-run accident.

   The accident, which occurred at 116 West Sycamore Street, led Sergeant Manuel and another officer to a group of drunken men in an alley between First and Second streets. Two of those men were a fellow Vincennes police officer and his brother. Although it was determined the officer was the driver, he attempted to implicate his brother.

   The intoxicated, 27-year-old, off-duty officer later entered the station when he pulled his gun and began firing. A single shot struck Sergeant Manuel but the bullet passed through his body and critically wounded another officer.

   Sergeant Manuel was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital where he died.

   The suspect was charged with murder and, after a change of venue to Daviess County, was acquitted. He was subsequently charged with leaving the scene of an accident and pleaded guilty, being fined $50 and court costs.

   Sergeant Manuel was survived by his wife and parents.