Fulton County sheriff's deputy killed in line of duty
AFSCME Local 3433 member Troy Chisum, a sheriff's deputy in Fulton County, was shot and killed in the line of duty on Tuesday, June 25.
Deputy Chisum was responding to a domestic violence call in a rural area between Avon and Ellisville, Illinois, when he was fatally wounded by a suspect who barricaded himself inside the home.
Chisum, 39, lived in Canton and was married with three daughters. A county sheriff's deputy for more than four years, he had also served as a medic and fire fighter.
"This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the risks that so many public servants face as they serve their communities," Council 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch said. "Our union is profoundly grateful for the service of our brother Troy Chisum. We grieve with his family and all who knew and loved him."
AFSCME Local 3433 President Trudy Williams—also a Council 31 executive board member—and Council 31 Staff Representative Randy Lynch have been working closely with county officials in the aftermath.
The union contract provides for the deputy's family to receive a full year of wages and benefits. The local is working on a memorandum of understanding to extend further support.
Chisum's fellow deputies and first responders from surrounding counties formed a procession of more than 100 emergency vehicles outside the hospital where his body was taken.
Counseling staff from nearby Illinois River Correctional Center—members of AFSCME Local 3585—immediately volunteered their time to help Chisum’s shocked and saddened coworkers. The AFSCME Council 31 Personal Support Program also offered to provide grief counseling.
The shooting suspect was arrested early Wednesday.
(Photo: Peoria Journal-Star)
