Well-known and respected Russell County businessman Ralph Creech, 48, was found dead with an apparent gunshot wound to the head Tuesday morning in his field which is adjacent to his home on Gaskin Rd., according to the Kentucky State Police.

Creech's body was found at approximately 6:21 a.m. by a neighbor heading to work. He was pronounced dead at the scene by Russell County Coroner Larry Skaggs just after 7 a.m.

Investigators and the coroner do not suspect foul play at this time and an autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday at the state medical examiner's office in Frankfort following the deadline of this newspaper.

State Police Detective Jamie Richards and Lt. Eric Wolford along with Coroner Skaggs are continuing with their investigations to determine if Creech's death was accidental or self-inflicted.

Creech, a prominent civic leader, was the former owner of Wendy's and Laker One Stop in Russell Springs and was the 2008 Russell County Chamber of Commerce president. He was also a former member of the Jamestown Elementary Site-Based Council and an executive board member with the Russell County Partners in Prevention.

A proud Republican, he was twice a candidate for Russell County Judge-Executive, both in 2006 and 2010.

He is survived by his wife, Rhea, and one daughter.