Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad Police Department, Railroad Police
End of Watch: Monday, August 29, 1921
Age: 57
Tour of Duty: 33 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: August 29, 1921
Weapon Used: Handgun
Suspect Info: Sentenced to 10 years
Special Officer Thomas McMillin was shot and killed in Barstow, California, while attempting to arrest three hobos who were riding on the top of a railroad car.
The three suspects were apprehended after a short chase by a posse into the desert. Only the shooter was charged with murder. The other two were released. The suspect, 21, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 10 years. He had a parole hearing on April 19, 1928. The outcome is unknown.
Officer McMillin had served in law enforcement for 33 years. He had previously served as chief of police for 17 years in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was survived by his wife and three children.