Private John Curtis Smith

John Curtis Smith

Private Jack Smith and Private John Williams were shot and killed by a mob while responding to a call for help with a riotous strike at the Pressed Steel Car Company plant in McKees Rocks on August 22nd. The officers, accompanied by Privates Privates Lucian Jones, George Kitch, and Patrick O'Donnell, were attacked en route at O'Donovan's Bridge. Private Williams was killed at the scene. Private Smith suffered gunshot wounds in both legs and a fractured skull. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh and died the following day, August 23. After killing the officers the mob robbed them of cash and other possessions.

Deputy Harry Exley, of the Allegheny County Sheriff's Department, was also shot and killed during the riots.

Private Smith had served with the Pennsylvania State Police for seven months and was assigned to Troop A, Greensburg. He was survived by his father.