Officer Raymond Thorn was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance.

Officer Raymond W. Thorn was sent to investigate a complaint that an intoxicated, armed man was creating a disturbance in a home on Lena Avenue in the city of Jennings. Officer Thorn was identified by the suspects' son as having an altercation with the suspect; the suspects' son retrieved a .22 caliber pistol and fired at Officer Thorn who attempted to flee. The suspect chased Officer Thorn from the residence and on the lawn Officer Thorn fired two shots and struck his pursuer, before collapsing. Officer Thorn was struck five times in the back. Both the suspect and Officer Thorn were pronounced dead on arrival at St. Louis County Hospital.

The suspects' son was arrested and charged with second degree murder. He was later acquitted of the charges.

Officer Thorn was survived by his wife, Virginia, son and daughter. Interred: Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Pagedale, MO.