Marshal William Smiley

Marshal William Smiley

Providence Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Tuesday, February 4, 1896

Add to My Heroes

William Smiley

Marshal Smiley was shot and killed while attempting to arrest two men for being drunk in public. The men had been harassing Marshal Smiley for a previous arrest of one of their relatives. When the marshal informed them they would be arrested too one of the men produced a gun and shot Marshal Smiley, killing him. The two men fled the area after the shooting.

Both men, brothers, were apprehended. On December 16, 1896, after three trials, both were convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 6 years hard labor.

Marshal Smiley had been elected as marshal only two weeks earlier. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age Not available
  • Tour 2 weeks
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to 6 years

Most Recent Reflection

View all 7 Reflections

Marshal Smiley,
On today, the 125th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Providence.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 4, 2021

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.