Sheriff James Shellenbarger, age 41, was shot on May 31, 1905, while attempting to arrest Frank Hildreth, also known as Frank Coile, on a charge of assault with intent to kill. The incident occurred at the Hildreth farm northwest of Brandon, Knox County, Ohio. During the arrest attempt, a gunfight ensued, and Sheriff Shellenbarger was shot in the abdomen. He was immediately taken to the hospital, but his condition was too critical to remove the bullet right away. When doctors finally attempted to remove the bullet, they discovered a massive infection, which led to his death on October 3, 1905.
The shooter, Frank Hildreth, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 18 years in prison. However, he was later pardoned by Governor James M. Cox on July 2, 1917. Sheriff Shellenbarger had served with the Knox County Sheriff's Office for two years and was survived by his wife, two sons, two brothers, and a sister.
The case highlighted the dangers law enforcement officers face in the line of duty and the impact such incidents have on their families and communities. Sheriff Shellenbarger's dedication and sacrifice are honored by the Knox County Sheriff's Office and the Ohio Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation.
