Deputy Sheriff William Henry O'Berry, Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Florida

Deputy Sheriff William Henry O'Berry

Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Florida

End of Watch Friday, January 1, 1926

William Henry O'Berry

Deputy William O'Berry was shot and killed while attempting to serve a warrant on a man in Hernando County. The suspect was wanted in Pasco County for stealing an automobile.

As Deputy O'Berry placed handcuffs on the suspect, the man suddenly ran towards the back of his house. Deputy O'Berry chased the man to the rear of the house where he was shot by the suspect.

The man fled the scene and was able to avoid a massive manhunt. He was arrested in Marion County several days later after being shot while fleeing officers. As the Hernando County sheriff and a deputy returned the suspect from Marion they were accosted by a group of angry citizens. The citizens took custody of the suspect and lynched him.

Deputy O'Berry was survived by his parents and siblings. He is buried in Townsend House Cemetery in Dade City, Florida.

Bio

Age 36
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Lynched by mob

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The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director Steve Casey
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 27, 2016