Marshal J. W. Newsome, a 32-year-old white male, tragically lost his life on March 3, 1908, in Floral City, Florida. Newsome, who served as the City Marshal, was responding to a tip about a man wanted for an earlier shooting. This tip, later believed to be false, was intended to lure him to a local saloon, an illegal liquor establishment. Upon arrival, Marshal Newsome attempted to arrest the suspect.
Both men drew their guns simultaneously, but Newsome was fatally shot and died instantly.
The suspect, whose identity remains unclear, was also shot during the altercation but managed to escape. The incident was initially forgotten by local officials and only came to light again in 1996, thanks to the efforts of Dr. Wilbanks. Sheriff Charles Dean of Citrus County then certified Newsome’s death as a line-of-duty fatality.
Following the death of Marshal Newsome, his family, including his wife, three children, and two brothers, left Floral City for unknown destinations. The case did not result in any known arrests or litigations, and the suspect was never apprehended. Newsome's dedication and bravery are remembered today, with his name inscribed on a memorial at the Citrus County Sheriff's Office headquarters.
