Deputy Sheriff William Hamilton

Deputy Hamilton was shot and killed while investigating the sounds of gunfire coming from a home in Pikeville. When he approached the homeowner and inquired about the gunshots the owner told him he was firing at a rat.

When Deputy Hamilton told the man he was going to confiscate his pistol the man opened fire, striking Deputy Hamilton in the head and chest. Despite being mortally wounded, Deputy Hamilton was able to fire one shot but did not strike the man. Deputy Hamilton was taken to a local hospital where he died early the next morning.

Another deputy arrested the suspect for Deputy Hamilton's murder and the suspect's son-in-law after finding mash and a still underneath the home.