Edwin M. Gilbert
ELY WEEKLY MINING EXPOSE
October 17, 1907
GAMBLER KILLS CONSTABLE GILBERT AND IS HIMSELF PROMPTLY DISPATCHED
While attempting to arrest F.M. Saunders for beating up his paramour, in a crib adjoining the Club dance hall in the Red-light district, Saturday evening. Constable Ed Gilbert was shot in the abdomen just above the navel, and was struck in the back as he fell, the latter bullet piercing the kidneys. The wounds proved fatal, and died at the Dillion hospital at 6 o’clock last night.
F.M. Saunders was shot through the left temple, the bullet taking a slightly downward course and coming out at the right side of his head. Death was almost instantaneous and as soon as the officers and bystanders had rushed into the room. Saunders was dead. He was found lying on a trunk in the back part of the room, with his gun by his right hand.
Considerable mystery is attached to the manner in which Saunders met his death. Many people feel strongly inclined to the belief that the wound was self inflicted, while others assert that it would not have been possible for Saunders to have done away with himself.
Constable Gilbert believed before his death that he had killed Saunders; and held strongly to that opinion, even a few hours before his death. “Go get him, boys, I’ve got him.” was the manner in which he addressed Arthur Luchesi and Harry Waller, when they entered the room, after the shooting. Yesterday afternoon he told Justice Cartwright that he had fired the shot which killed Saunders and at that time he was able to talk only with considerable effort.
…Recognizing that the only hope of saving his life lay in an operation, he was taken to the Dillion hospital and six of the leading physicians of the city operated on him… The doctors stated that after the operation that Gilbert only had a fighting chance for his life. His strong constitution could not overcome the effects of the wounds and he passed away last evening at 6 o’clock.
Plaque Location & Image
Center Wall Column 5 Row A View The Plaque