Deputy Sheriff James Walton Smith, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama

Deputy Sheriff James Walton Smith

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama

End of Watch Tuesday, July 24, 1894

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James Walton Smith

Deputy Smith and Deputy Charles Cole were shot and killed while attempting to serve warrants on a father and son involved in a previous murder. When the two deputies approached the family's home the suspects opened fire, killing both deputies. The previous murder was on July 15 at the strike where Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff B. W. Pearce was killed.

Both suspects fled into nearby hills where the father was located by a posse. He was later tried for murder and acquitted. The son gave himself up to the Birmingham Police on May 7, 1897. In 1898 the charges were dismissed due to insufficient evidence.

Bio

Age Not available
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Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Charges dismissed

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Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Sheriff Smith,
On today, the 130th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Jefferson County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 24, 2024