Killing of Walter Merkerson in Florida in 1938

Incident

Case summary

Walter Merkerson was killed in 1938 by O. W. Giddins, a collector of a furniture store in Palm Beach County, Florida. Giddins came to Merkerson’s home to collect money for a bed. A dispute ensued and Giddins shot Merkerson. Merkerson died a few days later at a hospital. Trial jury acquitted.

Victim(s):

Alleged perpetrators/other named individuals:
Perpetrator group type: [ ]

Date of incident: 1938-02-28
Location: Canal Point, Palm Beach County, Florida
Location type: victim's home
Allegation against victim: owing money for a bed

Coroner process
Coroner/inquest: [ ]
Finding of no legal responsibility: [ ]

Criminal process
Arrest: yes
Charge/indictment/information: yes
Grand jury: [ ]
Trial: yes
Conviction: no
Sentence: [ ]


Document(s):
advocacy group resources
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