United States Department of Justice - United States Marshals Service, U.S. Government
End of Watch Tuesday, September 13, 1892
Add to My HeroesVernon Coke Wilson
Deputy Marshal Vernon Wilson and Deputy Marshal Andrew W. McGennis were shot and killed in Fresno County, California, while they attempted to arrest two suspects wanted for the murder of Tulare County, California, Deputy Oscar Beaver one month earlier.
The suspects were Chris Evans and John Sontag, notorious California train robbers. A little less than a year later, Sontag was killed and Evans was apprehended after a gun battle with a posse. Evans lost an eye and his right hand in the fight.
Chris Evans was sentenced to life in Folsom Prison. He was paroled in 1912.
Deputy Marshal Wilson is buried at Court Street Cemetery in Tuscon, Arizona.
Bio
- Age 35
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Location California
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Shot and killed
Related LODD Deaths
Deputy Sheriff Oscar A. Beaver
Tulare County Sheriff's Office, CA
EOW: August 6, 1892
Deputy U.S. Marshal Andrew W. McGennis
United States Department of Justice - United States Marshals Service, US
EOW: September 13, 1892
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsI came to know and respect you through a research project about your uncle, Richard Coke, a former governor of Texas. Not everyone knows you came to Texas as a greenhorn and literally earned your spurs in the Texas Rangers. Your courage was your reputation and lives long after you have left us. It is currently my personal mission to find your grave. Your original cemetery in Tucson, Arizona (then Arizona Territory) was closed and all the graves were moved. I am hopeful to find you soon so your extended family can honor you once more.
Carla Kienast
Friend of the Family
December 14, 2021
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