Pat Garrett Murder Site Sign

Las Cruces, New Mexico

According to a large historical marker, Pat Garrett, the New Mexico sheriff who shot and killed William "Billy the Kid" Bonney in 1881, was himself murdered "at a remote site nearby" on February 29, 1908 at about 10:30 in the morning.

Despite his role in ridding the Southwest of a notorious outlaw, Garrett had by 1908 fallen on hard times. His reputation was so bad that his alleged killer -- Wayne Brazel -- was acquitted after a one-day trial where his attorney argued it was self-defense. "The motive and circumstances surrounding Garrett's death," says the sign, "are still being debated."

Since 1940 the actual murder site had been marked by a blob of concrete with a cross carved in it, left by one of Garrett's sons. The convenient roadside "Official Scenic Historic Marker" is a relatively modern addition.

For those who don't want to trek into the desert to visit Pat Garrett's actual murder site, the Pat Garrett Murder Site Sign is a convenient and photo-friendly alternative. Or... visit both for the complete Pat Garrett Murder Site experience.