In the small town of Jakin, Georgia, a lawman's call to duty ended in a fatal confrontation that would send shockwaves through Early County. Town Marshal William Henry Newberry, a male officer, was killed on Tuesday, August 15, 1911. His death came as he was responding to the distressed cries of a woman emanating from her home.
As Marshal Newberry entered the residence to provide assistance, he was met by the woman's husband, who tragically shot and killed him.
The suspect, who was also a local preacher, managed to escape and fled to Florida. It was believed by some in the community that the preacher had been appointed by his followers to carry out the act. This sentiment arose because Marshal Newberry had previously raided some of the preacher's disorderly meetings, creating animosity.
The murder of the town marshal ignited a furious response from a segment of the local citizenry. In the three days that followed, an incensed mob rampaged through Early County, seeking to avenge Marshal Newberry's death. Their violent spree resulted in the deaths of three men, the whipping of several others, and the burning of a dozen churches, marking a dark and tumultuous period in the county's history. The suspect in Marshal Newberry's murder, however, had already made his escape and was not immediately brought to justice for the shooting.
