Marshal John Harry Bowman, Punta Gorda Police Department, Florida

Marshal John Harry Bowman

Punta Gorda Police Department, Florida

End of Watch Thursday, January 29, 1903

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John Harry Bowman

City Marshal John Bowman was assassinated by a suspect who fired a shotgun through the front window of Marshal Bowman’s residence near Cross Street.

He was shot as an act of revenge for his tough stance against drinking and gambling. The murder took place in front of his wife and four children.

The suspect was arrested, convicted of murder, and sentenced to death. Two hours before his execution the Florida governor issued a stay of execution. The man escaped from prison in 1913 and was never recaptured.

Marshal Bowman had served with the Punta Gorda Police Department for seven years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age 45
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Escaped

at home, retaliation, ambush

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Most Recent Reflection

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Marshal Bowman,
On today, the 120th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Punta Gorda.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 29, 2023