Deputy Sheriff Gene Brian Wilkinson

Gene Brian Wilkinson

Deputies Gene Wilkinson and Larry Rhoden were killed when their department helicopter crashed into a small pond near Lakeland, Florida at approximately 0200 hours, during a period of dense fog.

Deputy Wilkinson was the pilot of the Bell OH-58 helicopter. The two deputies were returning from a call when the crash occurred.

Deputy Wilkinson had been employed with the Polk County Sheriff's Office for seven years, and is survived by his wife and son.