Sheriff Dennis J. Kelly, Nueces County Sheriff's Office, Texas

Sheriff Dennis J. Kelly

Nueces County Sheriff's Office, Texas

End of Watch Monday, June 13, 1870

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Dennis J. Kelly

On June 13, 1870, Nueces County Sheriff Dennis J. Kelly walked passed Thomas Burke on a downtown street in Corpus Christi. The sheriff knew Burke was wanted but walked past him. Burke shot and killed Sheriff Kelly. Burke fled and a $500 reward was offered for his capture, but no records located to indicate Burke was ever apprehended.

Sheriff Kelly was survived by his wife and five children. Sheriff Kelly was appointed on April 16, 1869 by General J. J. Reynolds’ Special Order #90; took the test oath April 30, 1869; elected December 3, 1869 and served until June 13, 1870 when he was murdered.

Bio

Age 43
Tour 1 year, 2 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Thomas Burke

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Sheriff Kelly,
On today, the 155th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Nueces County.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

June 13, 2025