Constable James H. Burns, Fairburn Police Department, South Dakota

Constable James H. Burns

Fairburn Police Department, South Dakota

End of Watch Thursday, July 11, 1889

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James H. Burns

Constable James Burnes was shot and killed while serving a warrant for the arrest of a subject who had posted a worthless bond in Fairburn.

Constable Burns and another deputy attempted to arrest the subject when they were fired upon. The other deputy went for reinforcements. When they returned, Constable Burns had been shot, and the subject had fled. Constable Burns succumbed to his wound five hours later at 11:30 pm.

The subject was caught a few months later in Nebraska. He was found guilty and sentenced to hang.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Not available
Offender Not available

arrest attempt, warrant

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Most Recent Reflection

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Constable Burns,
On today, the 136th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Fairburn.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 11, 2025