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Marker installed to honor slain Indiana deputy

RUSSIAVILLE, Ind. (AP) – The widow of a slain Indiana sheriff’s deputy has helped unveil a historical marker that describes how he died while on duty in Howard County.

Kassandra Koontz says she hopes the sign is a “reminder of Carl’s sacrifice.” Deputy Carl Koontz was killed in March 2016 while inside a mobile home in Russiaville. Another officer was injured.

Kokomo Tribune says a ceremony was held Sunday. The marker has been installed at Main Street and Union Street in Russiaville.

Howard County Sheriff Steve Rogers says Koontz “is always going to be in our hearts and minds.”

An investigation found that at least 25 rounds were fired in about 20 seconds during the shootout. The mobile home was the site of drug trafficking. The suspect was hiding behind a furnace.