Remembering two North Vernon officers who made ultimate sacrifice

(NORTH VERNON, Ind.) – The North Vernon Police Department is honoring two officers who were killed in the line of duty 33 years ago. 

Officer Anthony Burton and Reserve Officer Lonnie Howard were both killed when their patrol car was rammed by a man who was free on bond following an earlier standoff with police on March 24, 1993. 

Officer Burton was 29-years-old and had served on the department for three years. He was survived by his wife, mother, sister and four brothers.

Howard was 22-years-old and had been with the department for only four months. He was survived by his parents and brother.

“Never Forgotten!!! The North Vernon Police Department sends our Thoughts and Prayers to the family and friends of Patrolman Anthony Burton and Reserve Officer Lonnie Howard,” the department stated. 

The suspect was arrested but committed suicide while awaiting trial.