Sheriff Herman Barnickol

Sheriff Herman Barnickol

St. Clair County Sheriff's Department, Illinois

End of Watch Saturday, January 27, 1900

Add to My Heroes

Herman Barnickol

Sheriff Herman Barnickol was shot and mortally wounded during an escape attempt at the St. Clair County Jail.

As nine prisoners overpowered the jailor, one of them took his revolver and shot Sheriff Barnickol through his arm as he intervened. Sheriff Barnickol returned fire, killing the suspect.

Two weeks later, due to complications from infection, Sheriff Barnickol's left arm had to be amputated just below his shoulder. He died five hours later.

Sheriff Barnickol's wife and his aged mother played a heroic part in preventing the other eight prisoners from escaping. On April 21st, 1900, six of the prisoners were found guilty of Sheriff Barnickol's murder. One was sentenced to 18 years in prison. The other five were sentenced to 14 years each.

Sheriff Barnickol had served with the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department for five years and had served as Sheriff for two of those years. He was survived by his wife, mother, seven brothers, and four sisters.

Sheriff Barnickel is buried in Walnut Hill Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County.

Bio

  • Age 40
  • Tour 5 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Saturday, January 13, 1900
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Shot and killed

correctional Facility, escape attempt, prisoner custody

Most Recent Reflection

View all 9 Reflections

Sheriff Barnickol was my 2nd Great Uncle, I am very proud to say. May he never be forgotten! Thank you so much for your service! R.I.P.

Ramona Graves
Second Great Niece

October 8, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.