The Lake County Sheriff’s Office took time to honor the memory of Officer Gary Murphy, who was killed in the line of duty 50 years ago this week.
Deputies paused on all shifts Monday in commemoration of Murphy’s death, which took place on June 15, 1976.
Murphy, who was 29, and another deputy were shot when they responded to a call in Knollwood for a woman firing a gun outside her home, reportedly upset at children playing on a nearby playground.
Murphy and another officer were attempting to disarm the woman when they were shot.
The eight-year veteran left behind a wife and two sons. The woman who shot him was later declared not guilty by reason of insanity and committed to a state institution.
“Fifty years later, Deputy Murphy’s legacy remains an enduring part of our Sheriff’s Office history,” the department said in a social media post. “We remain committed to ensuring his service and sacrifice are never forgotten.”
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The woman killed last week by a train in Grayslake was identified by the coroner’s office as Virginia Girmscheid.
Girmscheid, a 60-year-old Grayslake resident, was hit by a freight train as she rode her bike near the Lake Street and Hillside Avenue intersection at about 8:12 p.m. on June 9.
According to online obituary, the Lake County native was the mother of seven children. She worked as the chief financial officer for Stepping Stones Network, which seeks to prevent sexual exploitation and human trafficking and works with survivors.
She was a graduate of the University of Illinois.
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The Sheriff’s Office reported this week that its auxiliary deputies contributed 10,250 hours of service in 2025, an effort that saved Lake County taxpayers more than $500,000.
The county board recently adopted a proclamation recognizing the auxiliary deputies for almost 50 years of service.
Founded in 1978, the auxiliary supports sworn officers at accidents sites and natural disasters and other emergences by providing crowd control and traffic direction. They also pitch in at charitable functions and community events.
Recruits complete 145 hours of training to become auxiliary deputies, and receive annual refresher and specialized training.
“The members of our Auxiliary Deputy Unit embody the spirit of public service,” Sheriff John Idleburg said. “They volunteer countless hours to training and service, and they play a vital role in helping us meet the public safety needs of our communities.
“In addition to their day-to-day responsibilities, they show up to major scenes to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their professionalism and commitment are truly remarkable, and we are beyond grateful for their dedication,” the sheriff said.
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There’s still time to sign up for the 14th annual “Outrun the Cops” charity run sponsored by the Gurnee Police Department’s FOP Lodge.
The run takes place June 27, starting at 8 a.m. at the Gurnee Police Station, and winds its way along the trail on the Des Plaines River. Participants can opt for a 5K run/walk or a 10K run.
And yes, police officers from Gurnee and surrounding communities will race, too, starting at the back of the pack
Medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in a number of age groups. Adult registration fees are $45 for the 5K and $55 for the 10K. Kids are free. Proceeds help the Lake County Child Advocacy Center. For more information, find the link on the Gurnee Police Facebook page.
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The Fourth of July will be here in a few weeks, and many police agencies across Lake County have announced enhanced patrols that will coincide with the holiday period. The advice doesn’t change: use a designated driver, a ride share or public transportation so you don’t drive impaired. Watch your speed and wear your seatbelt.
“We’re asking all of our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely,” Gurnee Police said in a media release. “Our officers will be working diligently to keep impaired drivers off the road and ensure everyone is buckled up.”
