Submitted by Madison Police Chief Gary Calhoun
Homicide Summary
On the morning of August 25, 2011, the entire Madison community experienced a terrible tragedy when an innocent man was brutally murdered in our quiet little town. Thankfully, our community of citizens rarely suffers such a heinous crime, and the community’s response was overwhelming. Our people showed their character that day, and in the days following, when they quickly rendered aid, prayers, food, and support for the grieving family and those involved in the aftermath. In an effort to bring some understanding, if that is even possible, I want to give some insight in to the events of that day and acknowledge the efforts of those who worked to bring healing and justice.
As we put the pieces together, it appears that this entire tragic incident took less than 20 seconds. No one had time to react to stop the attack. The Health Department staff acted heroically when they rushed to render aid to Mr. Logan. When they realized that aid was to no avail, they preserved his dignity by covering him with a sheet and even a small tent.
Within three minutes of his arrival, Officer Marsh was able to broadcast the name of the suspect over the radio. Credit is due to the witnesses who quickly came forward and gave information to law enforcement about what they saw and the identity of the suspect. If the witnesses had not involved themselves, this case may still be unsolved, or at the least, the suspect still at large.
Less than twelve minutes after the 911 phone rang, the suspect was in custody. Although we use the latest technology in crime scene processing, the suspect was apprehended quickly because of good old fashioned police work. Our officers know this community and the residents. When Captain McGhee heard the name of the suspect, he didn’t have to plug the information into a computer; he and Officer Marsh drove straight to the suspect’s house and apprehended him. This is indicative of the type of officers we have here in Madison. Their teamwork and dedication is outstanding!
The assistance we received from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the State Attorney’s Office was amazing. I have been in law enforcement for over 27 years and I have never witnessed better multi-agency cooperation.
Our community is healing after this tragedy. But we can look back and be proud of all of those involved who answered the call on that day. Heroes include the Health Department staff, the witnesses, and all of the law enforcement officers and agencies who worked to apprehend the suspect and gather evidence to gain a conviction when the case goes to trial. I ask that you pray for the families touched by this event and for our local law enforcement officers who continue each day to put their lives on the line to protect us all.
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