Deputized Civilian John Brooks

End of Watch: Tue, Dec 22nd, 1908

Date of Incident: Tue, Dec 22nd, 1908

Cause of Death: Gunfire (Intentional)

Service Time: Not Known

Age: Not Known

Incident

Deputy John Brooks and Deputy Robert Smith were shot and killed while attempting to serve a warrant on three men wanted for robbing a miner. He had deputized four men, including John Brooks, to assist with the arrests.

As Deputy Smith read the warrant to the three men one of them produced a handgun and opened fire, striking him in the abdomen. A shootout ensued between the three suspects and five officers in which Deputy Brooks and one of the suspects were killed.

The other two suspects fled the scene but were both quickly arrested. Deputy Smith succumbed to his wounds the following day.

Deputized Civilian John Brooks had been on tour 1 day.

Information obtained from the Officer Down Memorial Page.