In the line of duty, Prohibition Agent Walter M. Gilbert, a 35-year-old male, lost his life on a summer evening in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The fatal encounter occurred on July 22, 1931, during an undercover operation aimed at purchasing illicit liquor. Gilbert, along with fellow agents John Wilson and Oliver Cetteland, had arranged to meet a known felon, George Adams, on the lower Huntington Road near Waynesdale in Allen County.
The situation escalated when Agent Wilson approached Adams'
vehicle to complete the transaction. Adams, apparently sensing a trap, drew a. 45 caliber pistol and threatened to kill him. Fearing for his partner's safety, Agent Gilbert opened fire, slightly wounding Adams. The suspect retaliated, fatally shooting Agent Wilson before turning his weapon on Gilbert, who was struck in the back. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, two other agents were also wounded before Adams made his escape. Agent Gilbert was rushed to Lutheran Hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries that evening.
The manhunt for George Adams was swift. He was captured by a posse of federal and local authorities the following day. Adams, who was on parole for a previous federal liquor violation, was taken into custody to face justice for the deaths of the two federal agents.
