Deputy Sheriff Berry Palmer

Deputy Sheriff Berry Palmer

Atkinson County Sheriff's Office, Georgia

End of Watch Friday, December 25, 1931

Add to My Heroes

Berry Palmer

Deputy Sheriff Berry Palmer died from injuries he received when a dynamite trap exploded while raiding a whiskey still in the Roundabout Swamp near Pearson. Four other officers were injured.

The still exploded when the lid of a mash barrel was raised causing an electric switch connected with the barrel lid to set off five sticks of dynamite. Deputy Palmer was taken to a hospital in Waycross where his leg had to be amputated. He died from his wounds four days later on Christmas Day. Two men were arrested and charged with his murder.

When placed on trial, the suspect's attorney argued that the state had only circumstantial evidence. Both were acquitted February 26, 1932.

Deputy Palmer was survived by his wife and five children.

Bio

  • Age 43
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Explosion
  • Incident Date Monday, December 21, 1931

Most Recent Reflection

View all 9 Reflections

Deputy Sheriff Palmer,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Atkinson County.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 25, 2021

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.