Chief of Police Dave Markham, Willows Police Department, California

Chief of Police Dave Markham

Willows Police Department, California

End of Watch Monday, February 19, 1940

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Dave Markham

Chief Markham was shot and killed as he and another officer attempted to take shotgun from a man who was walking the streets threatening people. As the two officers talked with the man he opened fire fatally wounding Chief Markham and blowing away half of the other officer's face. Both managed to return fire leaving the suspect seriously wounded. A citizen, who ran out of a nearby hardware store, was hit with a bullet from Chief Marhham's revolver and killed.

On May 27, 1940, the suspect, 37, was found not guilty by reason of insanity and committed at Ukiah State Mental Hospital.

Chief Markham had served as a constable and chief of police for Willow for 18 years.

Bio

Age 69
Tour 18 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Committed

suspicious person

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Most Recent Reflection

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David Andrew Markham was my great-grandfather and I am his namesake.
My father Edgar Markham Jr kept his revolver and holster in our basement in my childhood and we were well aware of the story above of Grandpa’s demise.
About 20 years ago, my father gave the holster and gun to the Willow’s police department where they have them on display.
- David Andrew Markham, San Jose Ca

David A. Markham, civilian
Great grandson

November 16, 2025