Allen artist honors fallen Floyd County officers: ‘It’s emotional to work on’

ALLEN, KY (WOWK) — Two years ago, the community of Allen was still reeling from the deaths of three first responders. Now, the community continues to heal through art.

Local artist Payton Martin has been tasked with capturing the legacy of Floyd County Deputy William Petry, Prestonsburg Capt. Ralph Frasure, Prestonsburg Police Officer and K-9 handler Jacob Chaffins, and K-9 Officer Drago.

The officers were killed in an ambush attack on June 30th, 2022. Many in the area have said the tragic event scarred Floyd County.

Martin was commissioned by the city of Allen to create a mural down the road from where the incident took place. For Martin, this hits close to home on multiple levels.

“My father was actually at the shooting as well and we pretty much knew these people as well,” Martin says remembering the night the ambush took place.

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The City of Prestonsburg also commissioned a similar mural, but Martin says before he even dips his brush in the paint, he’s making sure he has the “go ahead” from the officers’ families.

“I make sure the families are okay with it and so far, it seems like the families really enjoy it and that puts the biggest smile on my face,” Martin says.

The mural is located strategically near Main Street, where drivers will see it as they’re entering the city.

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