Walter Knibbs 1846 - 1881

The New Albany Ledger-Standard Floyd Co., New Albany, IN

May 5, 1881

"A FATAL RIFLE BALL"

"The Last Squirrel Hunt of Walter Knibbs, Of Harrison County."

"A sad and fatal accident occurred near Buena Vista, Taylor township, Harrison County, Monday evening. Mr. Walter Knibbs, a showmaker (shoemaker), who carried on business at Buena Vista, and was formerly a citizen of New Albany, accompanied by his little daughter, went to the woods near the village to shoot squirrels. His rifle was an old fashioned one, carrying a small ball. The dog of Mr. Knibbs commenced barking at some distance away, and being uncertain from what direction the sound came, Knibbs climbed upon a stump that he might have a better outlook. He held his rifle in his hand by the barrel, and just as he mounted the stump and was drawing the gun toward him, the trigger struck the side of the stump and discharged the load. The ball struck Mr. Knibbs in the center of the breast, glanced along on the bone under the skin, entered the throat under the chin and passed out at the top of the head. The unfortunate man fell dead from the stump, without uttering a word or moving a muscle. His little daughter, frantic with fear and grief, ran to him, found his shirt bosom on fire, and extinguished the blaze. She then ran home and gave the alarm. The body was removed to his home, whence it was buried Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Knibbs was well respected and a worthy citizen. He leaves a wife and several children but illy provided for."


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