Deputy Sheriff George W. Hoffman

Deputy Sheriff George W. Hoffman

Windsor County Sheriff's Office, Vermont

End of Watch Sunday, April 29, 1900

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George W. Hoffman

Deputy Sheriff George Hoffman died of a wound he received when he was shot as he attempted to arrest a father and son, ages 53 and 29, who had escaped from the County Jail.

Deputy Hoffman and the Sheriff approached the suspects, who were sitting at a campfire in the woods surrounding the town of Woodstock, around 7 a.m. One of the suspects opened fire, striking Deputy Hoffman. Both officers were able to return fire, but both suspects escaped.

Deputy Hoffman was taken to a local home. He succumbed to his wounds two days later.

The suspects were apprehended two weeks later after a shoot-out with deputies and charged with murder. The 29-year-old shooter was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. His sentence was later commuted to life. Census records show he was released at some point between 1910 and 1920. He died in a Rockingham County, New Hampshire, homeless shelter in 1943. His father received a short sentence.

Deputy Hoffman was a United States Army Calvary veteran. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.

He is buried at Lyndon Center Cemetery in Lyndon, Caledonia County, Vermont.

Bio

  • Age 46
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Friday, April 27, 1900
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to life

escapee

Most Recent Reflection

View all 14 Reflections

Deputy Hoffman, it has been 123 years since you were taken from us. Northern New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices that you and too many others have made for us. Thank you for your service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

April 30, 2023

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