Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent

Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent | Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent | Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama
Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent | Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama
Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent | Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama
Deputy Sheriff Otha Zeiglar Dent

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Alabama

End of Watch Sunday, August 9, 1908

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Otha 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

ambush, strike

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Deputy 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

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