In the quiet hours of the night in Plainfield, Indiana, tragedy struck the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office when Deputy Fred Fislar died after coming into contact with electrified power lines. The incident occurred late Monday, April 15, 2024, around 11:50 p.m., near State Road 267 and County Road 300 South, following a single-vehicle crash that left dangerous conditions at the scene.
The Hendricks County Sheriff, Jack Sadler, confirmed that Deputy Fislar, a dedicated officer and former Marine, responded to the crash where a vehicle had collided with a utility pole. The impact dislodged power lines, which led to Fislar’s electrocution while he was assessing the site for safety.
A passerby noticed Fislar down at the scene and quickly used his radio to call for help. Despite immediate emergency responses and hospitalization at Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis, Deputy Fislar died from his injuries in the early hours of Tuesday, April 16.
His unexpected passing deeply affects the Plainfield community and Deputy Fislar’s colleagues. “Our hearts are shattered for the Fislar family, our department, and our entire community,” Sheriff Sadler stated at a press conference. He highlighted the widespread grief and sadness that have touched the community.
Deputy Fislar, who joined the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office in 2021, is remembered for his law enforcement service and his time in the United States Marine Corps. Before his policing career, Fislar served with distinction and brought the same dedication and bravery to his role in the sheriff’s office.
Rick Snyder, president of the Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police, conveyed his deep sadness and support, remarking, “An officer or Hendricks County Sheriff’s Deputy will remain with Deputy Fislar continuously until he is interred.” This act is a tradition in law enforcement, paying tribute to a fallen officer through to their final goodbye.
The driver of the car that hit the utility pole was also seriously injured and remains hospitalized at Eskenazi Hospital. The ongoing investigation into the crash aims to uncover further details and prevent future tragedies of this nature.
Sheriff Sadler’s closing remarks at the press conference served as a sad reflection on the daily dangers faced by officers. “We will request that the community keep Deputy Fislar’s family, our officers, and our community in their prayers during this challenging period,” he said, marking a time of mourning and contemplation for all involved.
Deputy Fislar leaves behind his wife, Madi, and two young children, ages six and six months.
