Constable William Melton Mears, Screven County Constable's Office, Georgia

Constable William Melton Mears

Screven County Constable's Office, Georgia

End of Watch Thursday, August 9, 1900

William Melton Mears

Constable William Mears and a man assisting him were shot and killed from ambush as they attempted to serve a warrant on a teenager for communicating threats.

As they approached the boy's home near the Savannah River, several men hiding in a nearby swamp opened fire. Constable Mears and his companion were killed instantly. A third companion, despite many wounds, managed to crawl to his buggy and make his way to Sylvania where he told of the shooting.

Five men were eventually captured and charged with murder. All five were hanged at the Screven County Jail June 14, 1901.

Constable Mears was survived by his parents, three sisters, and one brother. He is buried in Bethel Cemetery, Burtons Ferry Landing, Screven County, Georgia. The photo is courtesy of the Find a Grave website memorial.

Bio

Age 34
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle
Offender Executed in 1901

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 113th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

February 3, 2013