Night Policeman William Richard "Billy" Coleman

William Richard "Billy" Coleman

Night Policeman William Coleman was shot and killed from ambush by members of a family seeking retaliation against him.

Policeman Coleman had encountered one of the family members the previous day when the man was caught driving recklessly through town. The man and three other family members located Policeman Coleman in front of the Arab Billiard Parlor and shot him several times before stealing his service revolver.

Four of the family members were arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The primary suspect was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. He was pardoned in January of 1951. His pardon along with resent others set off an investigation by the Alabama Legislature in what they considered unjust decisions by the pardon and parole board.

Policeman Coleman had served in law enforcement for over 35 years. He had previously served with the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and Guntersville Police Department.