Monroe County AlArchives News.....Dr. Burrel Shirley Shot by David K. Smith May 28, 1903
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Elizabeth Lloyd  Marsden marsdenfam@hotmail.com October 9, 2007, 11:53 pm

Monroe Journal May 28, 1903
Dr. Burrel Shirley was shot and killed on Monday afternoon by his brother-in-
law, Mr. D.K. Smith, son of tax collector, J.L. Smith.
The circumstances leading to the killing as developed in the preliminary 
hearing before Justice W.C. Neville on Wednesday are substantially as follows:
Dr. Shirley had been for a number of years addicted to the unfortunate habit 
of over-indulgence in narcotics.
A few years ago he and his wife separated and the latter obtained a divorce.  
At various times since,the deceased gave annoyance to the family by efforts to 
establish correspondence with his former wife who resided with her father.  On 
Monday afternoon he made his appearance at the Smith home during the absence 
of Mr. Smith, using offensive language and firing his pistol in a reckless and 
dangerous manner.  Mrs. Smith sent a telephone message to her husband who was 
in Monroeville, apprising him of the fact and urging him to return home. On 
receiving this message, Mr. Smith set out for his home accompanied by his two 
sons, David and James.  When they reached the home of Mr. Smith, David 
procured a double barrel shot gun and proceeded in the direction of his 
father. 
 After going a short distance, he met Dr. Shirley with a pistol in his hand. 
Shirley began cursing Smith and raised his pistol as if to fire.  Smith 
discharged both barrels of his gun, one charge taking effect in Dr. Shirley's 
right breast, producing death in a few minutes. 
Mr. James Smith Jr. was the only eye witness and his statement corroborates 
that of his brother in all material particulars.
David Smith came to town at once and surrendered to the sheriff.  After a 
preliminary hearing he was discharged by Justice Neville. 
Dr. Shirley was a son of Mr. Burrel Shirley of Burnt Corn, a skillful dental 
surgeon and aside from his unfortunate habits, was generally esteemed. 

Additional Comments:
B.J. Shirley married Pearl Smith on Sept 17, 1895

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