Night Marshal James Knox was shot and killed after responding to a disturbance at a residence.

On June 22, 1934, at about 1:00 am, Night Marshal James Albert Knox responded to a local residence in response to the suspect's mother requesting he be arrested for drinking and causing a disturbance in the home. He had come home intoxicated and broke into the house when he found the door locked. Marshal Knox entered the home and attempted to arrest the 28 year-old man and in the ensuing struggle the marshal's revolver fell to the floor. The suspect knocked the marshal down, grabbed his revolver, and shot him four times, two times in the stomach and twice in the chest.

The suspect fled from the scene but soon returned to his residence and surrendered to the New Madrid County sheriff as he arrived at the scene. He was charged with first degree murder and subsequently sentenced to 7 years in prison.

Night Marshal Knox had just become night marshal on May 7, 1934. He had previously unsuccessfully run for city marshal and applied for the night marshal position. He was survived by his wife and two daughters. Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, New Madrid, MO.