Killing of Caldwell Washington in Texas in 1933

Incident

Case summary

Caldwell Washington (1909-1933), a wooler at a bedding manufacturer, died in Williamson County, Texas. Washington had been accused of stabbing Ernest Hafernick, a white co-worker. Months later, Washington’s remains were found hanging in a tree. Coroner ruled it suicide. The family disputed this, saying Washington’s hands were tied behind his back.

Victim(s):

Caldwell Washington


Alleged perpetrators/other named individuals:

Ernest Hafernik

Anton Vitek

Perpetrator group type: mob

Date of incident: 1933-06-10
Location: Rices Crossing, Williamson County, Texas
Location type: private space - agricultural or industrial
Allegation against victim: stabbing a white man; arguing with a white man

Coroner process
Coroner/inquest: yes
Finding of no legal responsibility: yes

Criminal process
Arrest: [ ]
Charge/indictment/information: [ ]
Grand jury: [ ]
Trial: [ ]
Conviction: [ ]
Sentence: [ ]


Document(s):
death certificates
news articles - closed
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