In the autumn of 1911, a tragedy struck the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office with the death of one of their own, a 50-year-old man named Frank Lewis Yeager. Having served as a Deputy Sheriff for only a single week, his career in law enforcement was cut tragically short on November 16, 1911, in Oklahoma City.
The circumstances surrounding Deputy Yeager's death were both shocking and deeply troubling. He was shot in the back with a rifle, an act of violence that ended his life.
The individual responsible for this fatal shooting was identified as the constable of Dewey Township.
Following the incident, the constable turned himself in to the authorities and was subsequently charged with the murder of Deputy Yeager. When questioned about his motive, he would only state that he was very angry with the deputy, refusing to provide any further explanation for his actions. The case proceeded to trial, and just two months after the shooting, the constable was acquitted of the murder charge.
Deputy Sheriff Frank Lewis Yeager was survived by his wife and their seven children, who were left to mourn the sudden and violent loss of their husband and father. His death remains a somber moment in the history of Oklahoma law enforcement, a reminder of the dangers faced by those who wear the badge.
