Jacksonville Sheriff's Office

Officer Burtner was shot and killed after he had responded to a suicide call located at 7343 Ellwood Avenue. He was ambushed by the suspect with an AK-47. The suspect had left a suicide message as the greeting on his own answering machine and the police were notified after it was heard.

After efforts to contact the suspect failed, a decision was made to force entry. Officer Burtner breached the doorway of the house and was fatally shot.  The suspect claimed self defense and stated that he thought his house was being burglarized. The suspect was convicted of manslaughter, four counts of attempted murder, and one count of armed robbery. He is eligible for parole in 2008.

Officer Burtner had served with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office for 6 months. He is survived by his wife.