Deputy Constable William Hamilton

William Hamilton

Deputy Constable William Hamilton was shot and killed while investigating the sounds of gunfire coming from a home near Melvin, Kentucky.

When he approached the homeowner and inquired about the gunshots the owner told him he was firing at a rat.

When Deputy Hamilton told the man he was going to confiscate his pistol the man opened fire, striking Deputy Hamilton in the head and chest. Despite being mortally wounded, Deputy Hamilton was able to fire one shot but did not strike the man. Deputy Hamilton was taken to a hospital in Pikeville where he died early the next morning.

Another deputy arrested the man for Deputy Hamilton's murder and also arrested the man's son-in-law after finding mash and a still underneath the home.

Deputy Hamilton was survived by his wife and seven children.