United States of America

William J. Lucas

Died July 13, 1884

William J. Lucas.

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

Jailer Lucas was shot and killed while attempting to protect to the jail from a mob of over 200 citizens who were trying to remove an inmate to hang him. As some of the residents began to assault Jailer Lucas he opened fire with his revolver, killing two citizens. Other citizens in the mob opened fire on Jailer Lucas, killing him, before removing the prisoner and killing him as well. Jailer Lucas was survived by his wife and six children. He was a Confederate Civil War Veteran who served as a private with Major John Mosby's Rangers. On November 21, 1863, he was captured near Culpepper, Virginia, and sent to prison at Point Lookout, Maryland.

Survivors
Jailer Lucas was survived by his wife and six children.
Service Record
Also Served
Daviess County Detention Center
Jailer
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 35-E · Line 3 cut as WILLIAM J LUCAS
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtpjt8dad6h3pqd63x0rp
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.

Jailer Lucas served with the Daviess County Detention Center.

Thank you for your service to the Owensboro 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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