Deputy Sheriff Julian E. Howard, aged 21, was killed in the line of duty on July 10, 1905, in Alba, Texas. Howard responded to a call about a shot being fired in a local billiard hall. Upon entering the hall, he encountered W. F. Holmes, also known as "Fletcher" or "Fletch," and C. C. "Kit" Holmes. A shootout ensued, during which Howard was fatally shot in the chest by a rifle bullet.
Despite being mortally wounded, Howard managed to shoot Holmes in the thigh before succumbing to his injuries.
Following the incident, both W. F. Holmes and C. C. Holmes were charged with the murder of Deputy Sheriff Howard. The trial, which took place on December 15, 1906, resulted in a hung jury. Subsequently, on December 8, 1908, the cases against both men were dismissed on a motion made by the Wood County District Attorney. As a result, neither Holmes faced legal consequences for their actions.
Howard was survived by his wife, Jennie, whom he had married on May 20, 1900. Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, no cemetery records or burial location for Howard have been found. His sacrifice is remembered and honored by his family, friends, and fellow officers.
The lack of resolution in the legal proceedings left a sense of injustice, as Howard's killers never faced punishment on earth. However, it is believed that they faced a higher court and justice at a later time. Howard's memory continues to inspire and be honored by those who knew him and by the community he served.
