Doyne Melton
1933
Doyne C. Melton served the U.S. Marine Corps.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Patrol Inspector Doyne Melton was shot and killed as he and several other inspectors attempted to apprehend 13 smugglers at the foot of Park Street as they waded ashore in El Paso, Texas, with 150 cases of illegal liquor. One smuggler hidden on the American side opened fire, as did the other smugglers. Inspector Melton was struck in the heart in the opening volley and died at the scene. The other inspectors shot and killed two smugglers and wounded another as they fled back into Mexico. Inspector Melton was a United States Marine Corps veteran and served with the United States Border Patrol for six years. He was survived by his wife. He was buried in Conyers, Georgia. Twenty days later, on December 27, 1933, U.S. Border Patrol Inspector Bert G. Walthall, who had survived the gun battle that killed Inspector Melton, was shot and killed by smugglers in El Paso County.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife.
Service Record
U.S. Marine Corps
Also Served
United States Department of Labor - Immigration Service - United States Border Patrol
Patrol Inspector
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtn58s5kt86s93d2hxd03
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
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 Doyne. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Doyne.
Leave a Tribute