Deputy Sheriff Robert H. Coffey, Christian County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

Deputy Sheriff Robert H. Coffey

Christian County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

End of Watch Saturday, October 26, 1901

Robert H. Coffey

Deputy Sheriff Robert Coffey was shot and killed while pursuing a group of miners who had just shot at another group of miners at the Empire Coal Company in Christian County.

Union miners were involved in a violent picket while on strike at the mine. The union miners had setup a camp at Nortonville and conducted raids on the nonunion miners. Early in the morning one of the raiding parties of union miners opened fire on a mine guard, shooting at him over 30 times from an ambush setup in the treeline.

Hearing the shots, Deputy Coffey obtained a horse and gave chase to a buggy that was leaving the area. A short distance away the buggy stopped and one of the occupants setup an ambush along the road. As Deputy Coffey approached the buggy he was shot and killed.

Four men were eventually arrested for his murder. Two of the men were convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Bio

Age 55
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

View all 2 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 113th anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service.

My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

January 5, 2014