Sheriff Richard D. Ellis, Scott County Sheriff's Office, Tennessee

Sheriff Richard D. Ellis

Scott County Sheriff's Office, Tennessee

End of Watch Thursday, August 13, 1925

Add to My Heroes

Richard D. Ellis

Sheriff R.D. Ellis was shot and killed in an ambush in front of the Scott County Jail at 7:45 pm.

He was walking a prisoner into the jail when he was shot in the back of the head by subjects who were hiding behind trees. After shooting Sheriff Ellis, the subjects fled down the river bank.

The prisoner did not try to escape when Sheriff Ellis was ambushed.

Several subjects were arrested, but there are no details about the results of the trial.

Sheriff Ellis had served as Sheriff of Scott County Sheriff's Office for three years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Bio

Age 43
Tour 3 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Unknown

ambush

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 15 Reflections

Sheriff Ellis,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Scott County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 13, 2025