Policeman John M. McManus, Heath Springs Police Department, South Carolina

Policeman John M. McManus

Heath Springs Police Department, South Carolina

End of Watch Tuesday, October 25, 1892

John M. McManus

Policeman John McManus was shot and killed in downtown Heath Springs while attempting to detain a group of four bootleggers who were causing a disturbance.

The bootleggers were on two wagons riding through town while cursing loudly while traveling to Kershaw. Policeman McManus had stopped them and informed them they had violated a town ordinance and owed a $5 fine. One of the subjects jumped from the wagon and shot Policeman McManus in the neck, killing him.

A citizen who was assisting Policeman McManus was able to subdue one of the men. The other three were eventually apprehended. Two of them were charged in connection with Policeman McManus' murder but the first trial ended in a mistrial. It is not known if they were ever retried.

Bio

Age 30
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Arrested

Most Recent Reflection

View all 3 Reflections

After 122 years, Town Marshal McManus will be dutifully honored for his service and sacrifice. His name will be inscribed on the wall in Washington, DC, in the SC Hall of Fame in Columbia, SC and on the Memorial in Lancaster County, SC.

His family and all descendants now know that he is honored for his bravery and commitment to his oath as an officer, and never forgotten.

Rest in peace, Town Marshal McManus.

Lois F. Rao
Surviving Mother of SCHP Sr/Trp Michael J. Rao, EOW June 12, 2002

February 20, 2014