Chief of Police Virgil Smith, Beattyville Police Department, Kentucky

Chief of Police Virgil Smith

Beattyville Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Saturday, April 22, 1944

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Virgil Smith

Chief of Police Virgil Smith was shot and killed around 6 p.m. inside of the Beattyville police station by a prisoner during an escape attempt.

The prisoner had broken a water pipe in his cell, which caused the jail to begin to flood. As Chief Smith entered the cell to investigate the prisoner attacked him. The man disarmed Chief Smith and then shot him three times, killing him.

The man, who had only been arrested three hours earlier for disorderly conduct, fled from the jail after murdering Chief Smith.

Chief Smith was survived by his wife, father, and sister.

Bio

Age 39
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Arrested

escape attempt

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Most Recent Reflection

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Chief Smith,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Beattyville. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

April 22, 2019