Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama
End of Watch Sunday, August 9, 1908
Add to My HeroesOtha Zeiglar Dent
Deputy Sheriff Otha Dent was shot and killed when a group of striking miners opened fire on a Birmingham Mineral Branch Railroad train that was transporting members of the Alabama National Guard, several sheriff's deputies, and 50 strikebreakers to a mine near Blocton.
A group of men opened fire with rifles and shotguns, firing hundreds of rounds into the train as it neared trestle No. 9. Deputy Dent, a conductor, and a strikebreaker were killed. Several other passengers on the train were wounded as they returned fire.
Over 30 people were arrested the following day.
Bio
- Age 26
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender 30 suspects arrested
Most Recent Reflection
View all 2 ReflectionsDeputy Sheriff Dent,
On today, the 116th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Jefferson County.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
August 9, 2024
