In the summer of 1918, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Palmer Morrison Watts, a 47-year-old male, met a violent end while carrying out his duties. On August 15th, Sheriff Watts was attempting to raid an illegal still when he was shot and killed. The individual responsible for his death had reportedly made prior threats to kill any law enforcement officer who tried to take him into custody.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene, prompting a search.
He was later discovered hiding in a field and taken into custody. The man was subsequently tried and convicted for the murder of Sheriff Palmer Morrison Watts. Justice was ultimately carried out on June 27, 1919, when the convicted murderer was hanged for his crime.
Sheriff Watts was a respected figure in his community, known for his dedication to his role as a lawman. His death left behind a grieving family, including his wife, two children, and six siblings, and marked a significant loss for the citizens of Tuscaloosa County.
