Watchman Thrown into the River and Drowned (1866)
A Watchman Thrown into the River and Drowned – The Murderer Apprehended and Committed
An angry dispute occurred at the landing about one o’clock, yesterday afternoon, between Timothy MAHONEY, a watchman, and George WALLACE, a deck-hand on the packet Gleaner, which was attended with a very shocking and tragic denouement. After an exchange of sundry provoking epithets and much abusive language, WALLACE drew a dirk knife with which he used toward MAHONEY, threatening his life. At this MAHONEY fled toward the brow of the boat. WALLACE, as if determined to carry into execution his murderous threats, followed brandishing the drawn blade above his head. Just front of the capstan, the fugitive being unable to escape further, turned about and face to face met his pursuer. The two grappled, and WALLACE, who was much the strongest, dropped the knife from his hand and with one powerful effort hurled MAHONEY over the guards into the river. Uttering one deathly shriek, which was his last, MAHONEY went under the water never to rise alive. His body seemed to be taken by the current under and adjoining boat, and though every effort was put forth for its recovery, all had proved in vain up to a late hour last night. After thus accomplishing his fell threat and purpose, Wallace, in the excitement that ensued, attempted to secrete himself in the hold of the boat, where he remained for about one hour, when again showed himself, and attempted to make his way to the packet J. D. PERRY, which was lying alongside. Here his further efforts to escape were suddenly frustrated. As he was stepping upon the deck of the steamer Perry the firm hand of policeman LEAHY was placed upon his shoulder and the fact made known to him that he was a prisoner. MAHONEY, for whose death WALLACE will be held to answers in the courts, was a resident of Galena, Illinois, where he has a wife and several children residing, who were dependent upon him for support. He had been upon the river but a few months, and is spoken of as a quiet and peaceable man. (Memphis Commercial, 25th)
The Bolivar bulletin. (Bolivar, Hardeman County, Tenn.), 27 Oct. 1866, Page 3. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.