IMPD Honors Two Officers Killed in Line of Duty

Memorial signs unveiled for Deputy Gerald Morris and Officer David S. Richards

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) held two ceremonies last week to unveil memorial signs honoring two Marion County law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty - Deputy Gerald Morris, who was shot and killed while responding to a robbery in 1981, and Officer David S. Richards, who was fatally shot in 1879 while searching for a gang of horse thieves.

Why it matters

These memorial signs serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by police officers who have lost their lives protecting their communities. Honoring fallen officers helps maintain their legacy and provides closure for their families and colleagues.

The details

The first ceremony was held on February 9th at 5900 E. 82nd Street to commemorate Deputy Gerald Morris. A second memorial sign was displayed on February 13th at the intersection of 26th Street and Capital Avenue to honor Officer David S. Richards. Deputy Terry Baker, who was killed alongside Deputy Morris, will also have a memorial sign dedicated in a future ceremony.

  • The ceremony for Deputy Gerald Morris was held on February 9, 2026.
  • The ceremony for Officer David S. Richards was held on February 13, 2026.

The players

Deputy Gerald Morris

A Marion County law enforcement officer who was shot and killed while responding to a robbery in 1981.

Officer David S. Richards

A Marion County law enforcement officer who was fatally shot in 1879 while searching for a gang of horse thieves.

Deputy Terry Baker

A Marion County law enforcement officer who was killed alongside Deputy Gerald Morris in 1981.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD)

The police department that held the ceremonies to unveil the memorial signs honoring the fallen officers.

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The takeaway

These memorial ceremonies serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Honoring their memory helps maintain their legacy and provides closure for their families and colleagues.