Delaware County Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Deputy Tony Skinner, Who Tragically Died in the Line of Duty Following Crash on I-69

💔 Delaware County Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Deputy Tony Skinner, Who Tragically Died in the Line of Duty Following Crash on I-69

DELAWARE COUNTY, Ind. — The Delaware County community is in deep mourning after the tragic death of Deputy Tony Skinner, a highly respected member of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, who lost his life in the line of duty early Wednesday morning following a devastating crash on Interstate 69 near Yorktown, Indiana.

According to authorities, the tragic incident occurred shortly after 1 a.m. when Deputy Skinner, who was on duty at the time, responded to assist with a traffic-related situation along I-69. While details of the crash remain under investigation, preliminary reports indicate that his patrol vehicle was struck while he was performing his duties near the shoulder of the highway. Despite the swift response from emergency personnel, Deputy Skinner succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The Indiana State Police and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation into the circumstances of the crash, working to determine exactly what led to the heartbreaking accident. Officials have described it as a tragic reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day in service to their communities.

The news of Deputy Skinner’s death has sent shockwaves through Delaware County and across the law enforcement community statewide. Known for his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service, Tony Skinner served with honor and integrity, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he so faithfully protected.

“Deputy Skinner was more than a deputy — he was family,” said Delaware County Sheriff Tony Skinner (no relation). “He served with courage, compassion, and pride. His loss leaves an emptiness that words cannot fill. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Those who worked alongside Deputy Skinner remember him as a man of kindness, humility, and quiet strength — someone who led by example and always put others before himself. Whether he was helping a stranded driver, mentoring younger deputies, or offering a listening ear to a colleague, his impact was deeply felt by everyone around him.

Community members have begun leaving flowers, flags, and heartfelt notes outside the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office in his memory. Local residents, churches, and first responder agencies from across Indiana have expressed their condolences, standing in solidarity with the department and Deputy Skinner’s grieving family.

“He was the kind of officer who cared about people,” said one resident who had met him several times. “He treated everyone with respect — no matter who you were. He truly represented what it means to serve and protect.”

In honor of Deputy Skinner’s sacrifice, Governor Eric Holcomb has ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff on the day of his funeral. A procession and full honors service are being planned to celebrate his life and his years of dedicated service to Delaware County.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office issued a heartfelt statement, saying, “We have lost one of our own. Deputy Tony Skinner’s dedication to duty and his commitment to helping others will never be forgotten. He served his community with courage, honor, and heart. We will carry his memory with us always.”

As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief and gratitude — grieving a hero gone too soon and grateful for the life of service he led. Deputy Skinner’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the safety he ensured, and the example he set for all who wear the badge.

Deputy Tony Skinner, remembered as a son, a husband, a friend, and a true public servant, will forever be honored for his bravery, compassion, and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his light continue to guide those who carry on his mission of service and protection. 💙🕊️