In the annals of Polk County, Arkansas, the name of Deputy Sheriff Charles J. Kirkland is etched in a story of duty and sacrifice that unfolded near Mena. There are no online sources with information detailing the recent death of a male named Charles J. Kirkland in Mena, AR. However, historical records recount the death of a lawman with that name.
On May 24, 1918, Deputy Sheriff Charles J. Kirkland, a 49-year-old male, was killed in the line of duty.
The incident occurred near the town of Hatfield, not far from Mena. Deputy Kirkland was part of a posse that had been assembled to apprehend a group of men who were evading the draft during World War I.
As the lawmen approached the cabin where the draft evaders were holded up, a gun battle erupted. In the exchange of fire, Deputy Kirkland was fatally wounded. Another member of the posse sustained injuries, and one of the men they were pursuing was also killed in the shootout.
Following the deadly confrontation, seven of the men from the cabin were taken into custody and subsequently charged with the murder of Deputy Kirkland. The legal proceedings resulted in the conviction of six of the suspects. One of the convicted men was executed for his role in the deputy's death on August 24, 1918. The others received sentences ranging from several years to life in prison.
