Deputy Sheriff James Tillotson

James Tillotson

Deputy Tillotson was shot and killed when he and another deputy attempted to question a suspect about a theft. The man suddenly drew a pistol and opened fire on both deputies, killing Deputy Tillotson and wounding the second deputy. The other deputy was able to return fire but did not strike the suspect.

The 38-year-old suspect was captured the next day when he was found hiding in a barn five miles from where he shot Deputy Tillotson. On November 23, 1957, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. As soon as he heard his sentence he made a break for freedom but was captured in the court house.

Deputy Tillotson was survived by his wife, son, and two daughters. The same day he was killed his wife became very sick, dying four months later of leukemia.