Marshal Asa T. Pettit

Marshal Asa T. Pettit

Clay City Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Wednesday, February 19, 1913

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Asa T. Pettit

Marshal Asa Pettit was shot and killed as he and two other men attempted to arrest five drunkards who had come into town and started firing their guns in the air.

As the officers approached, the men opened fire, killing Marshal Pettit. The other two officers retreated and returned to town to obtain reinforcements.

One suspect fled the scene, but the other four suspects were arrested. Two weeks later a mob took the suspected killer from the county jail, put a rope around his neck, and drug him to a nearby creek where he was drowned. The same day the one who fled was apprehended in Lexington. All four were convicted of murder and sentenced to life. One was paroled on August 3, 1922.

Bio

  • Age 39
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender One lynched; Four sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

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Marshal Pettit,
On today, the 110th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Clay City. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 19, 2023

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