Marshal George O'Connor, Leadville Police Department, Colorado

Marshal George O'Connor

Leadville Police Department, Colorado

End of Watch Thursday, April 25, 1878

George O'Connor

Marshal George O'Connor was shot and killed by a Leadville police officer he was attempting to discipline for gambling and frequenting dance houses.

After Marshal O'Connor informed him he would request the city council to fire him, the man made plans to murder the marshal. Later in the evening he met Marshal O'Connor at a local saloon, and after exchanging words, the policeman shot him several times.

The man then fled the scene, stole the county sheriff's horse, and departed town.

Marshal O'Connor had served with the agency for only 3 weeks. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 29
Tour 3 weeks
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Not available

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

Marshall O'Conner, each spring as I rake and clean your grave site I wonder how such a tragic thing could have happened. You were our town Marshall for only three weeks and yet you left an impression that 136 years later you are not forgotten. I've always considered it a privilege to take care of you in your eternal rest.

Sheriff Rod Fenske
Lake County Sheriff's Office

December 11, 2014