Constable William H. Kelley

William H. Kelley

Constable William Kelley and Deputy Constable Jacob Helbert were shot and killed in Mohicanville as they attempted to serve a warrant of habeas corpus on five men who had taken custody of their elderly father during a family dispute regarding his wealth.

Both officers were fatally shot as they entered a residence where the men were located. All five were arrested and charged with two counts of murder.

The shooter, who claimed self-defense, was tried and acquitted. Charges were dismissed against the other four.

Constable Kelley was a Civil War veteran. He was survived by his wife and two children.