Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama

Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama

End of Watch Sunday, August 9, 1908

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Otha Zeiglar Dent

Deputy Sheriff Otha Dent was shot and killed when a group of striking miners opened fire on a Birmingham Mineral Branch Railroad train that was transporting members of the Alabama National Guard, several sheriff's deputies, and 50 strikebreakers to a mine near Blocton.

A group of men opened fire with rifles and shotguns, firing hundreds of rounds into the train as it neared trestle No. 9. Deputy Dent, a conductor, and a strikebreaker were killed. Several other passengers on the train were wounded as they returned fire.

Over 30 people were arrested the following day.

Bio

Age 26
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender 30 suspects arrested

ambush, strike

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Deputy Sheriff Dent,
On today, the 116th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Jefferson County.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 9, 2024