Special Deputy Sheriff Benjamin Lawrence "Lon" O'Bryant

Benjamin Lawrence "Lon" O'Bryant

Special Deputy Sheriff Lon O'Bryant was shot and killed while investigating the sounds of gunshots near his home in Piedmont.

Moments after he heard the shots he encountered a buggy on the roadway near his home. He ordered the buggy to stop and for the occupants to put their hands up. The occupants, who had not heard the gunshots and were not familiar with Special Deputy O'Bryant, believed they were being robbed and one of them opened fire. Special Deputy O'Bryant was struck by the shot and fatally wounded.

The subject who shot him was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to once year in prison.

Special Deputy O'Bryant was survived by his wife, daughter, and sister.