Walter Corpening, a black male, was tragically killed on the night of November 13, 1906, in Asheville, NC. He was one of the victims of a violent shooting spree carried out by Will Harris, an infamous desperado. Harris, who had a long criminal history including escape from a chain gang and previous murder of a police officer, went on a rampage that night, resulting in the deaths of two policemen, three black citizens including Corpening, and a dog.
The incident began when Harris, who had
recently escaped from prison, arrived in Asheville looking for his old girlfriend. Unable to find her, he spent the day drinking and purchasing a rifle and ammunition. Later that night, after a confrontation with a man named Toney Johnson, Harris began his shooting spree. He first killed Officer Charles Blackstock and wounded Captain John Page before continuing to shoot randomly in the business district. Corpening, who was walking home from work, was one of the innocent victims caught in the crossfire.
The aftermath of the shooting spree led to a manhunt for Harris. The local police, along with the newly hired black detective Van Griffin, who had previously arrested Harris, worked tirelessly to track him down. Harris was eventually captured and faced charges for his crimes. The incident highlighted the racial tensions and law enforcement challenges of the time, as well as the bravery of those who worked to bring Harris to justice.
In summary, Walter Corpening's death was part of a tragic and violent episode in Asheville's history, involving a dangerous criminal and the courageous efforts of law enforcement to protect the community.
