In the line of duty, Deputy Sheriff Ben F. Pearson, a 40-year-old male, lost his life in Atoka County, Oklahoma. His death came on a Friday, October 14, 1910, while he was attempting to arrest a man at a dance. The individual was intoxicated and brandishing a handgun, creating a dangerous situation that required law enforcement intervention.
As Deputy Pearson moved to apprehend the man, the suspect fired his weapon. Deputy Pearson was struck twice in the torso by the gunfire.
The injuries he sustained proved to be fatal. In the ensuing chaos, the shooter managed to flee from the dance hall.
Following the shooting, an investigation was launched to bring the perpetrator to justice. However, despite the efforts of law enforcement, the suspect was never apprehended. The individual responsible for the death of Deputy Sheriff Ben Pearson evaded capture and was never held accountable for the crime. At the time of his death, Deputy Pearson was survived by his wife and two children.
