Killing of Tom Watson Darden in Georgia in 1933

Incident

Case summary

Tom Wastson Darden, 39, a tenant farmer, was killed in 1933 by Lovett Cockwell, a landowner. Following an argument between the two, Cockwell threatened to kill Darden, and Darden threatened to quit. Cockwell followed Darden home in his car, got out, shot Darden, and then went to the sheriff. The sheriff allegedly told Cockwell to bury the body and did not investigate. Darden’s body was buried by a chain gang.

Victim(s):

Tom Watson Darden

Alleged perpetrators/other named individuals:

Lovett Cockwell

Perpetrator group type: [ ]

Date of incident: 1933-07-24

Location: Warrenton, Warren County, Georgia

Location type: public space - rural

Allegation against victim: arguing with a landlord

Coroner process

Coroner/inquest: [ ]

Finding of no legal responsibility: [ ]