Corporal Sam Mapes

Sam Mapes

Corporal Sam Mapes was shot and killed after stopping two vehicles he suspected of transporting illegal liquor. The driver of one of the vehicles offered him a bribe, which he refused. He then stopped a third motorist and asked him to call for assistance. While talking to the motorist the suspect approached him from behind, grabbed his service revolver, and shot him.

The suspect fled but was apprehended four days later in Chicago. The suspect, a very wealthy Chicago bootlegger, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life.

Corporal Mapes' murder happened during a time when when Michigan citizens were complaining bitterly because Michigan did not have the death penalty.