Deputy Sheriff James Hughes was shot and killed while responding to a call for service at the Cook’s Ice Cream Parlor, located at the corner of Ash Avenue and Van Horn Road (modern-day Truman Road) in Independence.

While investigating reports of an intruder, Deputy Hughes woke a sleeping 19-year-old employee and family member inside the business. The employee shot and killed Deputy Hughes, believing he was a burglar. The shooter was not charged.

Deputy Hughes was survived by his wife and parents. Interred: Green Lawn Cemetery, Rich Hill, MO.