Sheriff William Austin Goodman

Sheriff William Austin Goodman | Harney County Sheriff's Office, Oregon
Harney County Sheriff's Office, Oregon
Sheriff William Austin Goodman

Harney County Sheriff's Office, Oregon

End of Watch Wednesday, August 27, 1924

Add to My Heroes

William Austin Goodman

Sheriff W. Austin Goodman was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man for writing bad checks in the Folly Farm area.

He met with the man on the border of Harney County and Malheur County and informed him he was under arrest. The subject pretended to comply with the arrest and said he had to get his coat. He walked to his horse but suddenly grabbed his rifle and shot Sheriff Goodman several times.

The man fled but was later apprehended by a posse led by Sheriff Goodman's son. He was convicted of Sheriff Goodman's murder, sentenced to death, and hanged on April 16th, 1926.

Sheriff Goodman had served as sheriff for 10 years. He was survived by his wife and children.

Bio

  • Age 54
  • Tour 10 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle; .30-.30
  • Offender Executed in 1926

arrest, fraud

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

Sheriff Goodman,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Harney County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retred)

August 27, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.

Recent LODD Deaths