Killing of Ralph Donaldson in Arkansas in 1947

Incident

Case summary

Ralph Donaldson (1920 - 1947), a truck driver, was killed by Walter Montague, his employer, in Craighead County, Arkansas. Montague was reportedly distressed by statements Donaldson made accusing his sister, Gladys Montague, of having a relationship with a man not her husband. Donaldson allegedly admitted to spreading the rumor, whereupon Montague shot him. When the police arrived and asked Montague if he “killed the Negro” Montague said “I hope so.” Walter Montague was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 21 years. Gladys Montague and her brother Byrnis Montague were also charged with Donaldson’s murder. Outcome of the charges against Byrnis and Gladys unknown.

Victim(s):

Ralph Donaldson


Alleged perpetrators/other named individuals:

Gladys Montague

Byrnis Montague

Walter Montague

Perpetrator group type: [ ]

Date of incident: 1947-09-21
Location: Jonesboro, Craighead County, Arkansas
Location type: private space - commercial
Allegation against victim: making untrue statements about a white woman

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

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


Document(s):
advocacy group resources
death certificates - closed
news articles - closed
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