Sheriff George W. Ralston

Sheriff George W. Ralston

Branch County Sheriff's Office, Michigan

End of Watch Wednesday, September 12, 1917

Add to My Heroes

George W. Ralston

Sheriff George Ralston was shot and killed when he and a deputy went to speak with a mentally ill farmer who had been causing problems in his neighborhood in California township.

The farmer ambushed them as they approached the area. Sheriff Ralston was shot in the side and fell to the ground. The deputy, who was unarmed, took cover on the side of the road.

After firing at the retreating deputy the man began shooting Sheriff Ralston again, striking him in the back and lung. The man fled into his house where he was shot and killed by a posse after a standoff.

Sheriff Ralston had served with the Branch County Sheriff's Office for just under three years. He was survived by his wife and five children.

Bio

  • Age 45
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge 1

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
  • Offender Shot and killed

EDP

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

No passage of time will ever erase your service and sacrifice. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 12, 2020

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.