Constable Jesse P. Matthews

Jesse P. Matthews

Panola County Precinct 2 Constable Jesse P. Matthews, 55, was on duty to maintain order at a singing convention about one mile east of Beckville. Two vehicles collided and the drivers started arguing. Constable Matthews attempted to settle the dispute when one of the drivers shot and killed him. The man fled the scene. Texas Rangers were sent to the county to calm down vigilantes looking for the killer. No information has been located as to whether anyone was ever arrested or tried for the murder.

Constable Matthews was first elected constable in Precinct 2 on November of 1914 and was serving his 12th term. He was survived by his son and two daughters. He was buried in Tatum, Texas.