On February 12, 1997, Officer Vernon Winn died of a heart attack while transporting two suspects to jail for drunk driving and drug possession. Officer Winn had a brief scuffle with the male suspect when placing him under arrest. Officer Winn had a fatal heart attack while transporting the female prisoner to jail. .

Officer Wynn was a nine-year veteran of law enforcement, including almost 8 years with the Iberia Police Department. Interred: Bethany Memorial Gardens, Bethany, MO.