City Marshal John Donald McElrath, Greenfield Police Department, Missouri

City Marshal John Donald McElrath

Greenfield Police Department, Missouri

End of Watch Monday, June 20, 1881

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John Donald McElrath

City Marshal Donald McElrath was shot and killed near Arcola by the leader of a gang of horse thieves he attempted to arrest. The suspect was captured six weeks later in Jasper County, Missouri.

The suspect, leader of a gang of outlaws, was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to be hanged, but appealed and was granted a new trial. On May 30, 1882, he pled guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 99 years in the Missouri Penitentiary. On December 25, 1896, he was pardoned by Governor William J. Stone with the condition that he leave Missouri and never return.

Bio

Age 26
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Pardoned in 1896

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Most Recent Reflection

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Marshal McElrath,
On today, the 140th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Greenfield.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

June 20, 2021