Chief Ash was struck and killed Saturday, August 8, 1981, by a vehicle while setting up a roadblock at 0515 hours. A burglary suspect, who had been chased into Iowa by Minnesota authorities, attempted to run the roadblock and crashed into Chief Ash's patrol car, killing him instantly.

The suspect was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 5 years in Anamosa Prison January 25, 1982.

Chief Ash was 37 years old.

Click here to view Memorial on the National Peace Officer Memorial Listing

Click here to view Memorial on the Officer Down Memorial Pages