DELAWARE COUNTY, Ind. — The Delaware County community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Deputy Tony Skinner, a respected and beloved member of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty early Wednesday morning, November 12, 2025, following a devastating crash on Interstate 69 near Yorktown.
According to authorities, the incident occurred at mile marker 247, between State Road 32 and State Road 26, when Deputy Skinner stopped to assist a stranded motorist—a selfless act that reflected his lifelong dedication to service. While helping with a disabled semi that was partially in the roadway, another northbound semi collided with his patrol vehicle. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel and an air ambulance dispatched to the scene, Deputy Skinner sadly succumbed to his injuries.
The Indiana State Police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The tragedy prompted a complete closure of northbound I-69 for several hours as first responders worked tirelessly to manage the scene. The Indiana Department of Transportation first reported the crash shortly before 4 a.m., and agencies from across the region responded in a unified effort to provide aid.
In a statement, Chief Deputy Jeff Stanley expressed the department’s deep sorrow:
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our law enforcement family and for the entire Delaware County community. We are grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers from the public and thank all the assisting agencies who responded to this tragic scene.”
Deputy Skinner was remembered as a man of courage, compassion, and commitment—a deputy who never hesitated to serve others, whether on or off duty. His colleagues describe him as humble and dependable, someone who led by example and treated everyone with kindness and respect. His final act of stopping to help a stranded driver stands as a powerful reflection of his character and the values he lived by.
As Delaware County mourns this immense loss, tributes continue to pour in from across Indiana and beyond. Flags have been lowered to half-staff, patrol vehicles display black mourning bands, and blue lights shine across homes and businesses in honor of Deputy Skinner’s sacrifice. His courage and dedication will never be forgotten. Deputy Tony Skinner’s legacy—of service, bravery, and love for his community—will forever live on in the hearts of those he protected.
