Forsyth Deputy, Purple Heart Recipient, Dies Of Illness

CUMMING, GA — A Forsyth County deputy died Monday night after battling complications from an unknown illness, the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office said early Tuesday.

Authorities said Sgt. Daniel Rush, the longest continuous serving member at the sheriff's office, died at Northside Forsyth Hospital with his coworkers beside him. He spent the past week in hospice care, authorities said.

Rush was assigned to the Judicial Service's Division, Forsyth County Sheriff Ron Freeman said in a statement.

"As sheriff, losing a member of the FCSO is my nearly sole fear," Freeman said.

He added Rush started with the department as a dispatcher in 1990. Rush would have observed his 35th work anniversary on Feb. 8.

The sheriff noted an incident where Rush "confronted a deranged gunman" on the steps of the courthouse, causing Rush to be injured in 2014. Freeman said Rush's interaction with the suspect gave "deputies time to respond and protect those within the courthouse."

This led to Rush receiving the FCSO Purple Heart Award and his selection by the Georgia Sheriff's Association as the Deputy Sheriff of the Year for Valor, Freeman said.

"To watch the entire FCSO family, to include our retirees and former employees, rally around Daniel day and night has been nothing short of inspiring and humbling," Freeman said. "I am so proud of the care and compassion each have shown."

Plans for a memorial service have not been released.