Amador County Sheriff's Department, California
End of Watch Sunday, August 12, 1855
Add to My HeroesWilliam A. Phoenix
Sheriff Phoenix was shot and killed in Tuolumne County after having chased several Mexican bandits from Amador County who had raided, sacked, and killed six citizens in Drytown. The incident became known as the Rancheria Massacre. Twenty Mexicans were later captured and lynched, though most if not all had nothing to do with the massacre.
Sheriff Phoenix was killed near Chinese Camp. He was the first sheriff of Amador County.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour 1 year
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsSheriff Phoenix,
On today, the 170th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Amador County.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
August 12, 2025
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