JAMES W BELL

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Order a Wreath

Rank: Deputy Sheriff
Panel: 13-W: 3
Department: Lincoln County, New Mexico, S.D.
End of Watch: April 28, 1881
Cause: Gunfire
Age: 39
Years of Service: Unk

Description: Deputy Bell and Deputy Marshal Robert Olinger were shot by Billy the Kid during his escape from the Lincoln County Courthouse jail in New Mexico. Billy the Kid had been found guilty of murder and was awaiting execution. Billy the Kid gained possession of a gun hidden in the outhouse and shot Deputy Bell. He then went upstairs and shot Deputy Olinger who had run back to the courthouse upon hearing the shots. Billy the Kid escaped but was shot and killed on July 14, 1881. Billy the Kid was responsible for the deaths of four other law enforcement officers: William Brady, George Hindman, Robert Beckwith and James Carlysle.