Chaves County Sheriff's Department, New Mexico
End of Watch Friday, February 8, 1901
William Rainbolt
Deputy William Rainbolt was shot and killed after arresting a man who was carrying a revolver at a dance near Roswell. After ordering the man into the deputy's buggy to be taken to jail, the man's brother came out of the dance and tried to interfere.
When Deputy Rainbolt refused to release the prisoner the brother pulled out a revolver and opened fire, striking Deputy Rainbolt in the chest.
Both brothers fled the area and remained at large for 2 years. The brother who shot Deputy Rainbolt was finally arrested in North Dakota and returned to Chaves County to face charges of first degree murder. He was originally convicted of third degree murder but won a second trial on appeal. He was acquitted of first degree murder during the second trial and was freed.
Deputy Rainbolt had served with the Chaves County Sheriff's Department for 2 years. He was survived by his wife and child.
Bio
- Age 25
- Tour 2 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; Revolver
- Offender Acquitted
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsDeputy Sheriff Rainbolt,
On today, the 115th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Chaves County.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
February 8, 2016
Recent LODD Deaths

Detective Sergeant Brian Scott Cuscino
New Castle Police Department, PA
EOW: April 19, 2018

Police Officer Tamby Yagan
Paterson Police Department, NJ
EOW: April 22, 2018

Deputy Sheriff Casey L. Shoemate
Miller County Sheriff's Office, MO
EOW: April 20, 2018

Sergeant Noel Ramirez
Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 19, 2018

Deputy Sheriff Taylor Lindsey
Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 19, 2018

Sergeant Sean McNamee Gannon
Yarmouth Police Department, MA
EOW: April 12, 2018

Patrolman Kevin F. Crossley
Whitesboro Police Department, NY
EOW: April 11, 2018

Police Officer Keith O'Neal Earle
Huntsville Police Department, AL
EOW: April 9, 2018

Corporal Dale Shannon Hallman
Saluda County Sheriff's Office, SC
EOW: April 6, 2018