Marshal Lindsey succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained three days earlier while investigating a prowler in a residential area of the city.  Shortly after speaking to the complainant, Marshal Lindsey located the suspect in a nearby yard. When he grabbed onto the man's arm, the suspect suddenly produced a small caliber pistol and opened fire, striking Marshal Lindsey four times.

Despite being severely wounded, Marshal Lindsey returned fire, but did not strike the suspect. Despite a large manhunt the suspect was able to escape.

Marshal Lindsey was taken to Delta Community Hospital in Sikeston, Missouri where he died three days later. He had served with the New Madrid Police Department for only 6 months, and is survived by his wife, Artie, and two children, Jerry Davis and Melba Sue. Interred: Evergreen Cemetery.