**Beech Grove Officer Remembered as Killer is Executed 25 Years Later**

In Beech Grove, Indiana, the memory of Officer Bill Toney endures as the community reflects on his remarkable life and tragic death. A beloved figure, Toney was a dedicated police officer and family man. With his wife, he raised two young daughters, embracing a life that felt like the lyrics of their favorite Kenny Chesney song: "Life is good, the grass is green, the good lord smilin' on you and me. Gonna knock on wood."

Toney’s promising career was cut short on September 29, 2000, the night before his 32nd birthday. While responding to a call in pursuit of a car theft suspect, he was fatally shot. The incident shocked the tight-knit community of Beech Grove, especially since no officer in the department had ever been killed by gunfire before. The grief was palpable as over 1,000 people attended Toney's funeral to honor his service and sacrifice.

On Tuesday, May 20, justice caught up with Toney’s killer. Benjamin Ritchie, the man responsible for Toney's death, was executed by lethal injection at the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City. His death marked Indiana's first execution of the year and the 17th in the nation. Reflecting on his actions during a recent clemency hearing, Ritchie expressed regret for the decisions that led to Toney's death, describing them as a series of "bad decisions" and expressing deep remorse.

Toney's widow, DeeDee Toney-Horen, remembers him as a devoted husband, father, and protector. Their love story began in high school and blossomed through the years. Toney-Horen speaks fondly of Bill’s joyful spirit and unwavering commitment to his family and community. He loved playing with his daughters and was excited when he finally became an officer with the Beech Grove Police Department at age 28.

Toney's dedication to his community and his dream job was evident. He never hesitated to work and took pride in his role as an officer. This September marks the 25th anniversary of his passing, and Toney-Horen is honoring his legacy by raising funds to install bulletproof glass in patrol cars—a cause she believes Toney would have supported.

As the community reflects on Toney's life, they remember a man whose eyes sparkled with enthusiasm and whose presence brought joy and protection to those around him. His widow remains determined to keep his legacy alive. "I felt like it has been my duty over the years to be his voice and I have done that," Toney-Horen asserts. "And I have not backed down."