Jailer Robert L. Johnson

Robert L. Johnson

Jailer Robert Johnson and Constable George Morris, of the Cameron County Constable's Office, were shot and killed during a raid of Brownsville that became part of a series of events later termed the "Cortina War."

Between 60 and 100 men, lead by a wealth rancher, raided the city of Brownsville with the intent of killing government officials and prominent citizens whom the rancher held grievances against. Jailer Johnson was slain while attempting to prevent some of the men from freeing several prisoners who were in the county jail.

Constable Morris was shot after seeking shelter underneath his home, on the abandoned Fort Brown military installation, when it was attacked.

The leader of the attackers fled to Mexico and was never captured or tried. Three of the attackers were convicted of murder and hanged on June 22nd, 1866.

Jailer Johnson had served with the Cameron County Sheriff's Office for seven years.