Deputy Sheriff William S. Wright, Letcher County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

Deputy Sheriff William S. Wright

Letcher County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

End of Watch Tuesday, January 30, 1900

William S. Wright

Deputy William Wright was shot and killed from ambush by two members of the Ku Klux Klan.

Deputy Wright was targeted because of his involvement with quelling a Klan war that had erupted in the county. He had also assisted with protecting a woman and her son who had been beaten and robbed by members of the KKK.

Both suspects were convicted of his murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Deputy Wright had served with the agency for only three months. He was survived by his wife and 11 children.

Deputy Wright's son, William Wright, was shot and killed in the line of duty on April 11, 1901, while also serving with the Letcher County Sheriff's Department.

Bio

Age 44
Tour 3 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle; Winchester
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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Another year has passed and you are still admired and respectfully remembered in the hearts and minds of so many. My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones and friends as another year passes. May they know that you will never be forgotten.

James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06

March 16, 2010