Publisher’s Perspective

By Tim Douglass, Publisher of the Pope County Tribune

The world turns and time moves too fast.  It was just about one year ago that Pope County Deputy Josh Owen was fatally shot in the line of duty as he and two other local officers responded to a domestic dispute in Cyrus.

The shooting happened on April 15 last year.  And it was devastating to local residents as the news traveled in our area and across the state.

I remember attending the Sunday news conference the day after the shooting and most of the officers had a very difficult time keeping their emotions in check.  Josh was a beloved fellow officer and was well-respected among his peers and throughout the community.

It was a sad day for Pope County officers, Josh’s family and all those who know and respect local law enforcement officers.

And now, a year later, the Pope County Sheriff’s Office, along with local law enforcement agencies, will be placing a wreath on the front steps of the Pope County Courthouse on April 15, 2024, at 9 a.m. in remembrance of Deputy Josh Owen.  The public is invited to join them at that time or stop by throughout the day.

“The Pope County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the continued support from our community and we are forever grateful,” it was stated last week.

The week following the shooting was a whirlwind of coverage of one of the largest funeral services I’ve ever witnessed.

From a devastating tragedy came an outpouring of support.

Glenwood became the destination for thousands of area law enforcement officers, first responders, area residents and the media.   More than 4,500 assembled outside the Memorial Service for Josh Owen. Inside the school, family, friends, fellow law enforcement and much of Pope County gathered.

It took more than 30 minutes just to seat all law enforcement officers in the filled-to-capacity Minnewaska Area School gymnasium.  More than 2,000 law enforcement officers from all over the state, and from other states, attended the service.

The Minnewaska Area High School gymnasium was filled to capacity and the auditorium and an auxiliary gym provided more seating for those who wanted to attend.  The service took place inside the school, then was continued outside where canine units assembled with their canine officers.

Signs and blue lights were displayed all over the county during the week of Josh’s funeral.

After the services at the school a procession moved through downtown Glenwood with hundreds of local residents lining Minnesota Avenue to show support for Josh Owen, his family, Pope County law enforcement officers and first responders.

The community came together to support our local law enforcement officers and acknowledge the important work they do.   

Now a year later, we need to remember the sacrifice and continue to support our law enforcement officers, first responders and all emergency response personnel.