Chief of Police Fred Hardeman Adams, Madison Police Department, Georgia

Chief of Police Fred Hardeman Adams

Madison Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Sunday, May 27, 1945

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Fred Hardeman Adams

Chief of Police Fred Adams was shot and killed in the residential section of the city.

He was hailed by a cafe owner and, as he pulled over to speak to him, the man suddenly produced a pistol and shot Chief Adams without warning. The man, 52, was arrested and charged with Chief Adams' murder.

A motive could not be determined. He was convicted of murder and died in the electric chair on November 18, 1947.

On June 9, 1923, the suspect, his brother, and another man killed their cousin in Madison. His body was found a few days later near Columbia, South Carolina. All three were convicted of murder and sentenced to life. On September 10, 1931, all three were pardoned by Governor Richard H. Russell Jr. The governor said only circumstantial evidence was used at their trials.

Chief Adams was a U.S. Army veteran. He was survived by his wife, son, and several siblings.

Bio

Age 56
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Executed in 1947

ambush

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Chief Adams,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

May 27, 2025