Killing of Willie Watkins in Virginia in 1939

Incident

Case summary

Willie Watkins (1895-1939), a laborer, was killed by police officer Henry R. Stratton in Richmond, Henrico County, Virginia. Stratton shot Watkins in the back as he and another officer chased Watkins down a public street. At trial, defense argued that Stratton accidentally discharged his gun when he fell during the chase. Trial court acquitted.

Victim(s):

Willie Watkins


Alleged perpetrators/other named individuals:

J. A. Smith

Harry R. Stratton

Perpetrator group type: police

Date of incident: 1939-08-20
Location: Richmond, City of Richmond, Virginia
Location type: public space - urban
Allegation against victim: [ ]

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

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


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