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William Henry Rafford

Death by Force
Case Description
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William Henry Rafford, a 48-year-old Deputy Sheriff with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office, tragically lost his life on December 16, 1903, in Aquebogue, New York. Rafford was serving a civil court summons at a farm when he was fatally shot. Upon entering the suspect's home and presenting the court summons, the suspect retreated to another room, only to return with a double-barreled shotgun. The suspect fired twice, striking Rafford and ultimately causing his death. The suspect then dragged Raf ...Read More
Links to Additional Sources (2)
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  • Deputy Sheriff William Henry Rafford
  • William Henry Rafford (1896-1947) - Find a Grave Memorial
    • Victim Details

    William Henry Rafford

    Male

    Aquebogue

    NY

    1903-12-16

    48

    William

    Henry Rafford

    11/13/2025

    Forum Posts (3)
    I just came across this tragic case of William Henry Rafford, and it’s really struck a chord with ... ...Read More
    08/16/2023
    Has anyone else looked into the aftermath and how William Rafford's family coped after his death? I'... ...Read More
    08/08/2023
    Has anyone else been deeply moved by the way this case highlights the lack of support for law enforc... ...Read More
    01/09/2023
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