William Addison "Ad" Campbell, a 30-year-old white male, was a police officer with the Fort Worth Police Department in Texas. He was tragically killed on August 12, 1909, while on duty. Officer Campbell and another officer were on foot patrol in an area notorious for gambling, crime, and prostitution when they were ambushed. The assailant opened fire on them with a shotgun from a balcony behind them. Officer Campbell was struck in the back of the head and died instantly.
The suspect was later apprehended and identified as the murderer of Texas Ranger Homer White the previous year.
Officer Campbell had been with the Fort Worth Police Department for only four months at the time of his death. He was buried at Oakwood Cemetery in Honey Grove, Texas. The incident was a significant blow to the community and the police department, as it highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in high-crime areas.
The investigation into Officer Campbell's murder led to the arrest of the suspect, who was also responsible for the murder of Texas Ranger Homer White. The suspect's identity and further details about the legal proceedings were not readily available in the sources. However, the apprehension of the suspect brought some measure of justice for the families of both Officer Campbell and Ranger White.
The death of Officer Campbell serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. His service and ultimate sacrifice are remembered and honored by the Fort Worth Police Department and the community he served.
