Chief of Police James W. Smith

James W. Smith

Chief Smith was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call on Park Street. When he arrived at the scene he confronted a male subject who was armed with a 12-gauge. As he attempted to talk the man into putting the gun down he was shot in the chest and killed instantly. The county sheriff responded to the scene and arrested the suspect.

On April 11, 1944, the suspect, 42, who claimed self defense, was tried and acquitted.