Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

This is probably less of a reflection, but more a notation. In the research I have compiled on the life of Mr. Bybee it was reported there were two men surprised by Mr. Smith mid robbery at the Milford Hardware Store June 27, 1937; 1) William Hilton Bybee (My Great-Great Uncle) and 2) Hiriam Prather. Hilton Bybee's fingerprints were found on the flashlight of Mr. Smith.

Elijah Columbas "Bill" Smith, Night Officer
Byars Police Department

About 6 a.m. on Sunday, June 27,1937, the body of Elijah Columbas “Bill” Smith, night officer at Byars, was discovered in the rear of the Milford Hardware store. Smith had apparently surprised two robbers who had entered the store and stolen several guns. Smith was shot twice from behind and beaten to death. An investigation determined that the murder occurred at approximately 2:30 A.M. Two suspects were identified, W.H. Bybee, an escapee from Texas, and Hiram Prather. Bybee’s fingerprints were found on Smith’s flashlight. Bybee was killed in a gunfight with Arkansas State Police near Monticello on July 20th. Hiram Prather, while attempting an escape from the McAlester State Penitentary in August of 1941, caused the death of Warden Jess Dunn. He was executed in July of 1943 for Dunn’s death. Elijah Columbas Smith, a single man, had been the night police officer for about one month. He was a carpenter by trade.

Patricia Allen, Registered Nurse
Great Great Niece of W. H Bybee.

July 7, 2020

Thank you for your service and know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

June 27, 2020

Time may have passed but you are not forgotten. I believe as long as someone remembers you or speaks your name, you are still with us.
Thank you for your heroism.
GOD Bless

Detention Officer A.Zambito
Texas

July 4, 2015

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 75th anniversary year of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

December 1, 2012

Elijah,
It has taken almost 71 years, but you are finally being honored. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of McClain County.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

February 9, 2008

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AS YOU JOIN THE RANKS OF ALL OF THESE FALLEN HEROS. THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR DEDICATION AND YOUR SERVICE. YOU ARE A HERO JUST BY THE PROFESSION YOU CHOSE.

VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH

February 7, 2008