ROBERT OLINGER

Order a Wreath

Rank: Deputy Marshal
Panel: 13-W: 3
Department: U.S. Marshals Service
End of Watch: April 28, 1881
Cause: Gunfire
Age: 40
Years of Service: Unk

Description: Deputy Marshal Olinger and Deputy James Bell 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 somehow managed to gain possession of a gun and shot Deputy Bell. He then went upstairs and shot Deputy Olinger as he ran 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.