Sheriff James Christopher Burns, Sanpete County Sheriff's Department, Utah

Sheriff James Christopher Burns

Sanpete County Sheriff's Department, Utah

End of Watch Wednesday, September 26, 1894

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James Christopher Burns

Sheriff James Burns was shot and killed by sheep rustlers in the mountains above Spring City. While returning the stolen sheep he encountered two rustlers and became engaged in a gunfight. Sheriff Burns was mortally wounded but was able to wound one of the suspects. Both men were identified but fled the area and were never captured.

Sheriff Burns had served as sheriff for 2 years. He was survived by his expectant wife and seven children. One of his children, James Milton Burns, was shot and killed in the line of duty on June 16, 1925, while serving as marshal of Castle Gate, Utah.

Sheriff Burns is buried in Mount Pleasant City Cemetery, Mount Pleasant, Utah.

Bio

Age 45
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Never apprehended

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Most Recent Reflection

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Sheriff Burns,
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 Sanpete County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

September 26, 2024