William Arthur May, a 44-year-old Deputy Sheriff with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office, tragically lost his life on April 22, 1934, in LaCrosse, Florida. On that fateful day, Deputy May was off duty and attending church when he was alerted to a domestic disturbance involving a man who had threatened his own family and vowed to kill any officers who attempted to arrest him.
Despite being off duty, Deputy May responded to the call of duty and went to the residence where the incident was unfolding.
Upon arriving at the scene, Deputy May knocked on the door of the home. The suspect, with his hand concealed in his pocket, opened the door. When Deputy May informed the man that he was under arrest, the suspect drew a handgun and shot Deputy May twice. Despite being mortally wounded, Deputy May managed to return fire, fatally wounding the suspect. Deputy May's bravery and quick response ultimately cost him his life, but he was able to neutralize the threat and protect the community.
The incident led to an immediate investigation by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office. Given the circumstances of the shooting, where Deputy May was acting in his official capacity to arrest a dangerous individual, the investigation concluded that the suspect was solely responsible for the tragic events. There were no further arrests or suspects involved in the case, as the primary perpetrator had been killed during the exchange of gunfire with Deputy May.
Deputy May had only served with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office for five months at the time of his death, having previously served as a county constable in the LaCrosse District. His untimely death was a significant loss to the community and the law enforcement fraternity. He was survived by his wife, mother, three brothers, three half-brothers, one half-sister, and his grandfather. The community mourned the loss of a dedicated officer who had shown immense courage and commitment to his duty, even when off duty.
In the aftermath of the incident, there were no litigations or law cases filed against the Alachua County Sheriff's Office or any other parties. The investigation confirmed that Deputy May had acted appropriately and within the bounds of his duty. His sacrifice was honored and remembered by his colleagues and the community he served. The case remains a poignant reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face and the ultimate sacrifices they sometimes make in the line of duty.
