Leamon Martin.
Deputy Sheriff Slim Martin was beaten to death in Cool Ridge, West Virginia, with a hammer and his own pistol by two men he had just arrested. He stopped for dinner with the suspects at about 6:00 pm. At some point after dinner, one of the suspects struck him in the back of the head with a machinist's hammer, and a fight ensued. The other suspect seized his gun and beat him with it. They dragged his body into the woods and took his patrol car. They were involved in a crash a short time later and fled the area on foot. They were apprehended two days later. Both suspects were sentenced to life in prison but were paroled in 1954. Deputy Martin was a United States Army WWI veteran who had served with the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office for at least a year. He had previously served with the West Virginia State Police for ten years.
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Leamon. Claim this record.
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.
Deputy Sheriff Martin gave the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office 11 years.
Thank you for your service to the Beckley community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
Add your own tribute to Leamon.
Leave a Tribute