Constable Henry Spencer

Henry Spencer

Constable Henry Spencer and Chief of Police John Miller, of the Jackson Police Department, were shot and killed while raiding a home on the outskirts of town in Snake Valley that was suspected of having illegal liquor.

Two men were arrested inside the home and taken out front, where Constable Spencer stood guard over them. Chief Miller re-entered the home to arrest the third man but was shot several times while inside. The man then exited the home and exchanged shots with Constable Miller, striking him multiple times.

Despite his wounds, Constable Spencer returned fire and wounded the subject. The man, along with the other two, fled into the nearby hills. The 40-year-old shooter was identified but never apprehended.

Constable Spencer was taken to a local hospital where he died of his wounds on November 2nd, 1927.

Constable Spencer was appointed constable after his brother, Constable Jim Spencer, was shot and killed in the line of duty on January 29th, 1927.