Correctional Officer William H. Owens, Kansas Department of Corrections, Kansas

Correctional Officer William H. Owens

Kansas Department of Corrections, Kansas

End of Watch Thursday, October 5, 1905

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William H. Owens

Officer Owens succumbed to injuries received the previous day when he was assaulted during an escape attempt. He had taken a prisoner outside of the state penitentiary in Lansing, Kansas, to do survey work. In an attempt to escape, the inmate struck Officer Owens in the chest, causing internal bleeding and triggering a heart attack.

The suspect, sent to prison in 1903 for stealing a car, was taken into custody and charged with Officer Owens' murder. In February of 1906 he was tried and acquitted.

Bio

Age 50
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Incident Date Wednesday, October 4, 1905
Weapon Person
Offender Acquitted

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Officer Owens,
On today, the 120th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Kansas. There is no tougher job in Law Enforcement than that of a Corrections Officer.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 5, 2025