Robert Eli Martin, aged 42, was the Sheriff of Hansford County, Texas, and was shot and killed on January 26, 1911, in Spearman, TX. Sheriff Martin was born on March 11, 1868, in Joplin, Texas, and had served as sheriff since November 11, 1908. He left behind a wife and nine children.
On the day of his death, Sheriff Martin and a U.S. Deputy Marshal went to the suspect's ranch to ensure he was moving out as ordered by the court. As they entered the property, Sheriff Martin called out to the suspect, who then ran into a barn. Sheriff Martin gave chase and entered the barn, where he was shot and killed by the suspect. The suspect was arrested, convicted of murder, and sentenced to life in prison. However, he escaped after serving five years and returned to his home, where he was later shot and killed by officers.
Sheriff Martin's death was a significant event in the history of Hansford County, and he is remembered for his dedication to law enforcement and his community. His son, Clarence Martin, later became the police chief of the Las Animas, Colorado, Police Department, and was also killed in the line of duty in 1947.
The suspect's arrest and conviction brought some closure to the case, but the tragic circumstances of Sheriff Martin's death left a lasting impact on his family and the community.
