Texas Department of Public Safety - Texas Highway Patrol, Texas
End of Watch: Sunday, April 1, 1934
Age: 22
Tour of Duty: 6 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: April 1, 1934
Weapon Used: Shotgun
Suspect Info: Both shot and killed
Patrolmen H. D. Murphy and Edward Wheeler were shot and killed on Easter Sunday by the notorious outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde.
The two patrolmen had stopped their motorcycles on Dove Road, a dirt road just off Highway 114 near Grapevine, believing a motorist needed assistance. As they approached the vehicle, the two outlaws opened fire with a shotgun and handgun, killing both officers. It was also thought that other members of the gang were involved, Henry Methvin and Richard Hamilton, but it was never proven.
Patrolman Murphy had served with the Texas Department of Public Safety for 6 months. He had just completed his training and it was his first day on patrol. He was survived by his fiancee.
He is buried in the Old Palestine Cemetery near Alto, Texas.