In Memory of Detective Sergeant Glenn Sturgill: A Hero Remembered 43 Years Later
ASHLAND, OH — Forty-three years ago today, on August 2, 1982, Ashland County lost one of its finest—Detective Sergeant Glenn Sturgill—who gave his life in the line of duty on what was tragically also his 30th birthday.
A devoted husband, father, and public servant, Sgt. Sturgill served the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office with honor for six years. Known for his unwavering dedication, sharp instincts, and deep love for his community, he died as he lived—protecting the innocent from danger.
A Night That Changed Ashland Forever
On that summer evening, Sgt. Sturgill was conducting surveillance in the city of Ashland when he began following three suspicious men. The trio—David Mullins, Carl Dean Davis, and a juvenile—had traveled from Kentucky and spent two days plotting a robbery that would provide them with money and transportation home.
Armed with a sawed-off shotgun loaded with deer slugs, the men targeted a woman in the parking lot of the Fisher Big Wheel store on Claremont Avenue (now the location of Miller’s Market and Discount Drug Mart). As the suspects approached her and demanded her vehicle, the terrified woman dropped a large glass jug and fainted. The disturbance confirmed Sgt. Sturgill’s suspicions, and he exited his unmarked cruiser to intervene.
The three suspects fled across Claremont Avenue into a cornfield behind the McDonald’s restaurant. There, Sgt. Sturgill managed to apprehend one of the individuals. Unbeknownst to him, another suspect was lying in wait behind a dumpster. In a cowardly and calculated ambush, the hidden assailant fired a single shot. The rifled slug struck Sgt. Sturgill in the lower right side and traveled upward, piercing his heart. He collapsed into the cornfield and died instantly.
Justice Served, But a Community Scarred
Within eight hours, all three suspects were located and taken into custody. The investigation, aided by ballistic evidence and witness testimony, led to convictions. All three were tried and sentenced to prison for their roles in Sgt. Sturgill’s murder.
The community was left in shock, mourning the loss of a young officer whose life was defined by courage and service. Sgt. Sturgill left behind his beloved wife, Becky, and their two young children—his family forever changed by a senseless act of violence.
A Legacy Etched in Ashland’s Heart
Though the years have passed, the memory of Det. Sgt. Glenn Sturgill lives on. His sacrifice has not been forgotten.
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and local officials have ensured his legacy remains visible and honored:
The Command Center at the Ashland County Fairgrounds bears a dedication in his memory.
The main driveway at the Ashland Justice Complex has been named Sturgill Drive to honor his life and sacrifice.
Each year on August 2, residents, fellow officers, and family members remember the man who gave everything so others could be safe. His courage continues to inspire new generations of law enforcement officers.
Forever in Our Hearts
Detective Sergeant Glenn Sturgill died a hero—his actions that night saved lives and ultimately led to the capture of violent criminals. But he was more than a badge and a title. He was a father, a husband, a son, a friend, and a protector of the people of Ashland County.
Today, we remember and honor his bravery, mourn the life cut far too short, and offer our heartfelt gratitude to his family for sharing him with a community that will never forget.
End of Watch: August 2, 1982
Age: 30
Years of Service: 6
Survived by: Wife Becky, Two Children
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13
