He Shot the Sheriff

The Thompson boys and Chauncey B. Whitney.

August 15, 1873. Gunman Ben Thompson (photo) gets crosswise with two stalwarts–over gambling winnings–in Ellsworth, Kansas. He and his very drunk brother Billy arm themselves. They are headed off by Sheriff Chauncey B. Whitney, a friend to both. The lawman suggests they go get a drink and cool down; the Thompsons agree. But the two instigators appear and seem ready for a fight. Ben Thompson quick fires his rifle in their direction but misses. His brother Billy stumbles and accidentally shoots Sheriff Whitney with a shotgun. He dies three days later–but says the shooting is accidental.