Circumstances of Death
Prohibition Agent Dale Kearney was shot from ambush while walking down the street in Aguilar, CO. His murderer was never identified. The murder of Agent Kearney is strongly linked to the August 28, 1930, disappearance of Prohibition Agent Ray Sutton, near Raton, New Mexico, approximately 30 miles away. Both men were considered outstanding agents and very aggressive in going after moonshiners. A known gang was hauling moonshine between New Mexico and Colorado. It is surmised that in both instances, since the agents could not be bribed, threatened or coerced, the gang decided to kill them.
Background
Agent Kearney joined the Bureau of Prohibition on July 1, 1929, with an annual salary of $2,300. He carried badge #1422.
Personal
Agent Kearney was born in Bode, IA. He was survived by his wife, Frances (née Brown); and their daughters, Kathleen and Caroline.