Deputy Sheriff Karl C. Peterfish, Mercer County Sheriff's Department, West Virginia

Deputy Sheriff Karl C. Peterfish

Mercer County Sheriff's Department, West Virginia

End of Watch Tuesday, August 21, 1934

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Karl C. Peterfish

Deputy Sheriff Karl Peterfish was shot and killed while escorting a group of non-union miners out of the Goodwill mines during a strike.

A group of union miners opened fire on the group, killing Deputy Peterfish. One of the union miners was wounded by the return gunfire.

Eleven union miners were arrested and charged with Deputy Peterfish's murder. Ten of the suspects were convicted and received varying sentences to a maximum of 18 years.

Deputy Peterfish was a United States Army WWI veteran and had served in law enforcement for 15 years. He served with the Mercer County Sheriff's Department and Wyoming County Sheriff's Department for over a year and previously served with the West Virginia State Police. He was survived by his wife., daughter, mother, two brothers, and a sister.

Bio

Age 35
Tour 15 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to 18 years

strike

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Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Sheriff Peterfish,
On today, the 90th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served during World War I. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 21, 2024