Marshal Rolland P. Smith

Marshal Rolland P. Smith

Chelsea Marshal's Office, Iowa

End of Watch Thursday, December 5, 1901

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Rolland P. Smith

Marshal Rolland Smith was shot and killed when he interrupted six suspects burglarizing a bank in the middle of the night. Marshal Smith was shot in the head during an exchange of gunfire with the suspects.

Three suspects were apprehended by Missouri authorities as they crossed the Missouri River bridge leading to Leavenworth. Two weeks later a wooden leg led to the capture of a suspect near Chicago by Pinkerton and Northwestern Detectives. A peg at the bottom of the leg produced a unique track in the snow. On January 11, 1903, a fifth suspect was apprehended in Fort Worth, Texas. Four of the five were convicted of attempted bank robbery and sentenced to 8 years each in Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary. It is unknown if the suspect with the wooden leg was ever captured of if any of the six were held responsible for Marshal Smith's murder.

Marshal Smith was survived by his wife and young child.

Bio

  • Age 23
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Captured

robbery

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

Rest in peace Marshall Smith. The lone son you left behind was my wonderful Grandfather. From this branch today you would have 4 great great grandchildren and 11 great great great grandchildren. I thank police officers repeatedly for their service and would have thanked you if I was able. Even though your life was short you left quite a legacy. God Bless our law enforcement.

John DePauw
Great Grandson

September 26, 2020

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