Deputized Civilian Norton R. Moody, aged 40, was killed on March 31, 1906, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Moody was a private citizen who had been deputized by Deputy Sheriff Will Alders to help maintain peace at a dance held by Dave Taylor in the Woden community. The situation escalated when Taylor warned the lawmen not to enter the yard, threatening to kill them if they did.
Despite the warning, Deputy Alders attempted to arrest a man causing a disturbance at the party.
As Deputy Alders entered the yard, Dave Taylor pulled out a revolver and shot him in the breast. In response, Deputy Alders shot Taylor twice, killing him. Moody, attempting to aid Alders, was shot and killed instantly by Taylor's brother, Farmer Taylor . Farmer Taylor fled the scene but was later arrested and jailed.
In April 1907, Farmer Taylor was tried in Nacogdoches County for the murder of Norton R. Moody. However, he was found not guilty. The incident remains a tragic example of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and their deputies, even when deputized civilians are involved.
Moody was survived by his wife, Cora Moody, and their children: Azzie, Elsie, Norman, Allen, Dave, and Jesse. Despite the efforts to locate his burial site, the cemetery at Pea Ridge where he was reportedly buried could not be found.
This case highlights the complexities and risks associated with law enforcement duties in the early 20th century, as well as the legal challenges in prosecuting those responsible for such crimes.
