John Finley

NEW EDINBURG, ARK., This community was shocked and horror-stricken yesterday afternoon by the news that Mr. Ira Smith had killed one John Finley.  The killing occured at Mr. Smith's house yesterday afternoon.  The particulars as far as they can be learned are about as follws:  While Mr. Smith was away from home, Finley, who it seems was intoxicated, went to Smith's house and made improper advances to his wife.  Mrs. Smith managed to get out of the house and get to the home of her father's, Mr. Ben Livingstone.  She did not tell Mr. Livingstone all that occurred, but when her husband arrived, she told him of the matter.  Mr. Smith went to his house and found Finley still there.  Just how it was done nobody knows but Finlay was killed and Ira Smith says he killed him.  Finley was struck on the head several times and his skull was terribly crushed and his brains were scattered over the floor.

Mr. Smith is the son of Mr. R.G. Smith of this place, and has always borne a good character.  Mr. Finley is a son of Mr. Joe Finley who lives in Dallas county.  He has numberous relatives near Kingsland.  Smith was arrested last night and gave bond for his appearance at the inquest which takes place this morning at 9 o'clock.

Submitted by Belinda (Brown) Winston

Source: Cleveland County Herald, 19 Sep 1898