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William Coward

Case from Chatham, VA dated May 28, 1939

Victim Details

William M. Will Coward

Male

White / Caucasian

Chatham

VA

1939-05-28

44

William

Coward

06/30/2026

Case Description

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In the small community of Chatham, Virginia, a tragic event unfolded on May 28, 1939, forever marking the town's history. Constable William M. 'Will' Coward, a 44-year-old male, was killed in the line of duty. His death occurred while he was attempting to arrest a man who was causing a disturbance at a church on Route 57.

The situation escalated dramatically when two other men approached Constable Coward from behind during the arrest. One of the men seized Coward's own service revolver fr ...
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Links to Additional Sources (3)

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  • Individual : GOLDSTON - Chatham - Search all records - Geneanet
  • Constable William M.
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    Forum Posts (1)

    I’ve been thinking a lot about the trial and conviction of the man who killed Constable William Co... ...Read More
    06/17/2023
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