Chief Deputy W. D. "Kechi" Johnson, Grant County Sheriff's Office, New Mexico

Chief Deputy W. D. "Kechi" Johnson

Grant County Sheriff's Office, New Mexico

End of Watch Monday, August 27, 1900

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W. D. "Kechi" Johnson

Chief Deputy Kechi Johnson was shot and killed when he was ambushed along Whitewater Creek in the Upper Gila section of Grant County.

He had arrested a cattle thief while he and another deputy were trailing a group of cattle thieves who had been operating in the area. He separated from the other deputy in order to take the prisoner to the jail at Silver City. While en route he was ambushed by one of the man's companions.

After Chief Deputy Johnson was murdered the prisoner went to a nearby ranch, told the rancher, and then fled.

Chief Deputy Johnson was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Not available

ambush, escape attempt, livestock enforcement, prisoner custody

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Most Recent Reflection

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Chief Deputy Johnson,
On today, the 125th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Grant County.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 27, 2025