International and Great Northern Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police
End of Watch Thursday, October 19, 1905
Add to My HeroesJohn Wesley Etheridge
Special Officer John Etheridge was shot and killed at the railroad station in Troup, Texas, while attempting to quell a disturbance.
Officer Etheridge was on duty aboard a special excursion train when one of the passengers became disorderly. When the train arrived at the station the man and Officer Etheridge got off of it and went into the waiting room where the shooting occurred.
The subject who shot him Officer Etheridge was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was released after serving only eight years.
Officer Etheridge had served with the International and Great Northern Railroad Police Department for six years and had previously served as a deputy sheriff and constable in Harrison County. He was survived by his wife and six children.
Bio
- Age 51
- Tour 15 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Location Texas
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to 10 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 6 ReflectionsOfficer Etheridge,
On today, the 120th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice as a Law Enforcement Officer.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
October 19, 2025
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