Police Officer James H. Watkins, Cairo Police Department, Illinois

Police Officer James H. Watkins

Cairo Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Sunday, December 20, 1903

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James H. Watkins

Police Officer James Watkins was shot and killed after arresting a man wanted for robbery in Mounds, Illinois.

Officer Watkins recognized the man and arrested him at the intersection of 21st Street and Poplar Street. He was escorting the man to jail and was approaching 16th Street when the man suddenly produced a handgun and shot Officer Watkins twice, fatally wounding him.

The suspect, known as the "Texas Kid", escaped in a horse and buggy he forcibly took from a couple.

Officer Watkins had served with the Cairo Police Department for eight months.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour 8 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender At large

robbery, warrant service

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Watkins,
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 Cairo.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 20, 2023