Deputy Sheriff Harry H. Exley, aged 60, was fatally shot on August 22, 1909, in Shoenville, Pennsylvania. Exley, who served with the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, was killed during a period of intense rioting by steel workers in McKees Rocks Borough. Martial law had been imposed in the city due to the unrest. Exley was sitting in a vehicle at the Pressed Steel Plant at the intersection of George Street and Nichol Avenue when he was shot.
The incident occurred amidst widespread violence, and Exley was not the only casualty. Private John Williams and Private Jack Smith, both with the Pennsylvania State Police, were also shot and killed during the riots. Despite the chaos, no specific suspects were identified in connection with Exley's death. The weapon used was a handgun, but the offender remained unknown.
Exley had a distinguished career in law enforcement, having previously served with the Pittsburgh Police Department and the Pennsylvania Railroad Police for a total of 14 years before joining the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office. He was survived by his wife. The circumstances of his death highlight the dangers faced by law enforcement officers during periods of civil unrest.
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