Constable John Wesley Harryman

Constable John Wesley Harryman

Shoal Creek Township Constable's Office, Missouri

End of Watch Thursday, April 13, 1933

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John Wesley Harryman

Constable John Harryman and Detective Harry McGinnis of the Joplin Police Department were killed in a gun battle with the notorious outlaw gang led by Bonnie and Clyde.

Detective McGinnis, Constable Harryman, and several other area officers had gone to their hideout at 34th Street and Oak Ridge Drive to investigate what they thought were bootleggers. Instead, they had stumbled upon Bonnie and Clyde's gang. Both Detective McGinnis and Constable Harryman were shot and killed by the Barrow brothers.

Constable Harryman, who was elected Shoal Creek Township Constable of Newton County in November 1932, was survived by his wife and two children. He is buried in Saginaw Cemetery, Saginaw, Newton County, Missouri.


The Bonnie and Clyde Gang was responsible for the murder of law enforcement officers in four states - Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas - between 1932 and 1934. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow started their criminal career by robbing banks and quickly became notorious murderers wanted for the murders of nine law enforcement officers.

The two criminals were finally shot and killed in Louisiana when they were ambushed by a task force of Texas and Louisiana officers.

Bio

  • Age 42
  • Tour 1 year
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Both shot and killed

alcohol violation

Most Recent Reflection

View all 19 Reflections

You were the beloved brother of my grandfather, George Harryman. I found letters he had written to you while he was in France recovering from WWI warfare. You joined him just 4 years after he passed and are buried near him. How I would have loved to know both of you.

The citizens you protected have not forgotten you. I get contacted every so often asking me about that horrible day. Your family was devastated by your loss. If you had lost your life due to a "common criminal", the devastation would have been the same.

Rest in Peace, dear uncle. Your wife and children have joined you. The future generations will keep your memory alive.

Linda J Harryman
Great Niece

February 12, 2024

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