Editor:

The West Virginia Sheriffs’ Association would like to express its deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts to those involved in Tuesday night’s shooting in Clay County.

After a DUI arrest one State Trooper was shot and killed while another was critically injured.

The suspect fled, but was later found by a Roane County Deputy who was also injured when more gunfire ensued. Two Clay County Deputies were also at the scene.

It is incidents like these that remind us of the dangers of entering a law enforcement career.

It is not just a job, it is a way of life. Our men and women in uniform make a conscious decision every day to put their lives on the line to protect all of us.

It doesn’t matter if you wear green, blue, or black- You are a family.

Those involved are in our thoughts and prayers and we ask everyone to take the time and thank those in uniform today for their service.

Rudi Raynes-Kidder

Executive Director

West Virginia Sheriffs’ Association