In the copper mining town of Clifton, Arizona, a violent encounter on the evening of July 24, 1911, resulted in the death of 26-year-old Chief Deputy Sheriff John D. Garnett, a White male. The events leading to the fatal shootout began earlier that evening when another deputy was assaulted and disarmed by a local man. The assailant had beaten the deputy with his own service revolver before stealing the weapon and fleeing.
Tasked with apprehending the suspect, Chief Deputy Garnett located the man at his home in Clifton. As Garnett attempted to make the arrest, the suspect drew a revolver, prompting an exchange of gunfire. In the ensuing shootout, both men were struck. Though mortally wounded, Chief Deputy Garnett managed to return fire and kill his assailant.
Chief Deputy Sheriff John D. Garnett ultimately succumbed to his injuries sustained in the line of duty. His death was officially attributed to gunfire. The suspect in his killing was shot and killed by Garnett during the confrontation. As a result, no arrests were made in connection with the death of the lawman.
