James Vallard Smith served in the U.S. Navy.
Night Chief Jim Smith was accidentally shot and killed by another officer while struggling with a drunk driving suspect.
Chief Smith and three other officers in his patrol car had pursued the vehicle to Gillam Hill, where they forced it to stop. When Chief Smith approached the driver, the man punched him in the face. A second officer then struck the driver on the head with the butt of his service revolver, which was then discharged. The round struck Chief Smith in the head, killing him.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested and held on a drunk driving charge.
Chief Smith was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII.
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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.
Night Chief Smith gave the Barbourville Police Department 12 years.
Thank you for your service to the Barbourville community. Thank you 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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