This week in Texas History

April 1, 1934 – Patrolmen H. D. Murphy and Edward Wheeler were shot and killed on Easter Sunday by the notorious outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde.

The two patrolmen had stopped their motorcycles at the intersection of Hwy. 114 and Dove Rd. near Grapevine (now Southlake, TX), believing a motorist needed assistance. As they approached the vehicle, the two outlaws opened fire with a shotgun and handgun, killing both officers.

Bonnie and Clyde were responsible for the murder of law enforcement officers in four states – Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas – between 1932 and 1934. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow started their criminal career by robbing banks and quickly became notorious murderers wanted for the murders of nine law enforcement officers.

The two criminals were finally shot and killed in Louisiana when they were ambushed by a task force of Texas and Louisiana officers.

The true story of the pursuit and final act can be seen now on Netflix’s “The Highwaymen”, starring Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson as legendary Texas Rangers Frank Hamer and Maney Gault.