Agent Thomas R. Matthews, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota

Agent Thomas R. Matthews

South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota

End of Watch Thursday, January 24, 1946

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Thomas R. Matthews

Agent Tommy Matthews and Sheriff Dave Malcolm of the Butte County Sheriff's Office were shot and killed while conducting a roadblock near the town of Spearfish at the intersection of South Dakota Highways 14 & 85.

Both officers were shot around 7 p.m. by an escaped murderer from Minnesota. The suspect was apprehended and executed in the electric chair in 1947.

Agent Matthews had served with the Federal Bureau of Investigation during World War I and served with the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation for at least four years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

He is buried at Rose Hill Cemetary in Spearfish, Lawrence County, South Dakota.

A portion of Highway 85 has been dedicated to Agent Matthews and Sheriff Malcolm.

Bio

Age 48
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Executed in 1947

escapee, roadblock

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Agent Matthews,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of South Dakota. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 24, 2021