On April 1, 1910, William E. Murphy, aged 48, was tragically shot and killed in Houston, Texas. Murphy, who served as the Deputy Chief of Police for the Houston Police Department, was ambushed by a former officer named Earl McFarland while dining at the Acme Restaurant on Preston Avenue. Murphy was known for his dedication to his role, having served as a detective and later as Deputy Chief since 1907.
The incident occurred shortly after 9:00 p.m., when McFarland entered the restaurant
holding a gun and shot Murphy, who exclaimed "Oh God" before collapsing to the floor. McFarland fled the scene but was apprehended a few blocks away. Murphy, who was seated with his back to the door, was fatally wounded and became the highest-ranking officer ever to be killed in the line of duty in Houston.
The subsequent trial of Earl McFarland in 1911 brought significant attention, as McFarland claimed self-defense. Despite the evidence and testimonies, McFarland was acquitted due to a lack of witnesses. Murphy was survived by his wife, Margaret, and their three children: Margaret, Willie, and George. His funeral was held on April 3, 1910, and he was laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery.
Murphy's legacy continues to be honored by the Houston Police Department, and his name was added to the "Last Roll Call" of fallen officers in 1983, providing closure to his family. His story remains a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
