Deputy Sheriff J. William Barnes, Macoupin County Sheriff's Department, Illinois

Deputy Sheriff J. William Barnes

Macoupin County Sheriff's Department, Illinois

End of Watch Monday, July 20, 1925

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J. William Barnes

Deputy Sheriff William Barnes was shot and killed as he attempted to question two youths at a filling station in Nilwood, Illinois.

Deputy Barnes had been warned earlier that the two youths, ages 18 and 19, were wanted for several hold-ups in Virden and Girard. The suspects' automobile was found overturned and abandoned three miles away. A posse captured both suspects two days later. One had a bullet wound in his shoulder from Deputy Barnes' return fire.

Both subjects were convicted of Deputy Barnes' murder and sentenced to 99 years in prison. On January 11th, 1941, Governor John Stelle commuted their sentences to 35 years.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 2 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to 99 years

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Deputy Sheriff Barnes,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice fr the citizens of Macoupin County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 20, 2025