Deputy Sheriff Lee Russell, Adair County Sheriff's Office, Oklahoma

Deputy Sheriff Lee Russell

Adair County Sheriff's Office, Oklahoma

End of Watch Sunday, December 19, 1915

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Lee Russell

Deputy Sheriff Lee Russell was shot and killed near Ewing Chapel while attempting to arrest two men who were transporting liquor from Arkansas into Indian Territory.

As Deputy Russell informed the men they were under arrest one of them opened fire with a shotgun, wounding him. Despite the wound, Deputy Russell was able to return fire and killed the subject. The second subject pretended to surrender and then opened fire with a handgun, striking Deputy Russell five time before fleeing the scene.

Deputy Russell was able to walk back to his nearby home but succumbed to his wounds the following morning.

The subject who fled was arrested in Arkansas several days later. He was returned to Oklahoma, convicted of murder, and sentenced to life at hard labor.

Deputy Russell was survived by his wife and 5-year-old son.

Bio

Age 33
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Saturday, December 18, 1915
Weapon Handgun
Offender Shot and killed

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Most Recent Reflection

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Lee Russell was my Great Grandfather. I am very honored that his sacrifice for his county and family is finally recognized. I only know him by pictures and the stories my grandmother told me. He must have been a very brave man. His death changed so many lives in the past as well as 104 years later. I am very proud to be his great granddaughter.

J.L. Carson
Great Granddaughter

January 8, 2020