Sheriff John E. Stack

Sheriff John E. Stack

Morrison County Sheriff's Office, Minnesota

End of Watch Saturday, October 16, 1965

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John E. Stack

Sheriff John Stack and Chief Deputy Andrew Herlitz were shot and killed after responding to a dispute between two farmers over a tractor.

When the officers arrived, one of the men shot Deputy Herlitz first, and then Sheriff Stack as he was trying to put Deputy Herlitz in the police vehicle.

The suspect turned himself in to the police and was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He pled guilty to two counts of third-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years on September 23rd, 1966.

Sheriff Stack was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Morrison County Sheriff's Office for 10 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

He is buried in Calvary Cemetery, just West of Anoka, Minnesota.

Bio

  • Age 45
  • Tour 10 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Friday, October 15, 1965
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 40 years

ambush, disturbance

Most Recent Reflection

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Sheriff Stack,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy-especially during World War II and the Korean War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 16, 2025

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