Marshal Artis J. Chitty

Artis J. Chitty

Marshal Artis Chitty was beaten to death during a struggle with a suspect in the Tacoma Federal Building, located at 1102 A Street in Tacoma, Washington.

Marshal Chitty was escorting two bank robbery suspects from a courtroom when the men attempted to escape and attacked him.

During the attack one of the men struck Marshal Chitty in the face, causing a fatal injury. Both men were charged and convicted of murder as a result of his death.

Marshal Chitty's killer was sentenced to life. On May 4th, 1946, he and two other inmates were shot and killed during what became known as "The Battle of Alcatraz" which was the result of a failed escape attempt. Correctional Officer Harold P. Stites and Correctional Officer William A. Miller were shot and killed during the incident.