United States of America
Headstone of Dave Malcolm

Dave Malcolm

Died January 24, 1946

Dave Malcolm.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Sheriff Dave Malcolm and Agent Thomas Matthews of the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation were shot and killed while conducting a roadblock near the town of Spearfish at the intersection of South Dakota Highway 14 and 85. Both officers were shot around 7 p.m. by an escaped murderer from Minnesota. The suspect was apprehended and executed in the electric chair in 1947. Sheriff Malcolm was a World War I veteran who was elected as Sheriff of Butte County Sheriff's Office in 1945 and previously served as a deputy sheriff. He was survived by his wife and daughter. A portion of Highway 85 has been dedicated to Sheriff Malcolm and Agent Matthews.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife and daughter.
Media
Dave Malcolm
Dave Malcolm 0 views
Service Record
Also Served
Butte County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 53W · Line 6 cut as DAVE MALCOLM
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Sheriff Malcolm gave the Butte County Sheriff's Office 8 years.

Thank you for your service to the Belle Fourche community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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