Deputy Sheriff Jacob Anderson Ratliff, a male of Caucasian ethnicity, was fatally wounded on June 2, 1906, in Perry, Texas. Ratliff, who served with the Falls County Sheriff's Office, was 62 years old at the time of his death. The incident occurred when Mack Bazee, also known as Mat Bazy, entered a saloon in Perry and began causing a disturbance. When the saloon owner ordered Bazee to stop, Bazee fired a shot at the owner. Hearing the gunshot, Ratliff entered the saloon to investigate.
As he stepped inside, Bazee shot Ratliff in the right hip, critically wounding him. Bazee then fled the scene but was shot and killed by citizens shortly afterward.
Despite the efforts of the townspeople, Ratliff succumbed to his injuries the following day, June 3, 1906. He was survived by his wife and two children. Ratliff was buried in an unmarked grave in the Riesel City Cemetery in McLennan County.
The case did not lead to any arrests or litigations, as Bazee was killed by citizens before any formal investigation could be conducted. The incident was resolved on the spot, with the citizens taking matters into their own hands.
Ratliff's death was a tragic event that highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the early 20th century. His sacrifice is remembered and honored by those who continue to serve and protect the community.
