Who shot and killed Billy the Kid in 1881?

One of the most notorious figures of the American Old West, Billy the Kid met his demise on July 14, 1881, at the hands of Sheriff Pat Garrett. The exact circumstances of the shooting have been the subject of much debate and speculation over the years, but most historians agree that Garrett was the one who fired the fatal shot.

Pat Garrett, a former friend of Billy the Kid, had been tasked with capturing the outlaw and bringing him to justice. After a long and arduous pursuit, Garrett finally tracked Billy the Kid to a ranch in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. According to some accounts, Garrett found Billy the Kid in a dark room and shot him without warning. Others claim that there was a brief exchange of words before Garrett fired the fatal shot.

Despite the controversy surrounding the shooting, there is no doubt that Billy the Kid's death marked the end of one of the most infamous criminal careers in the history of the American West. His legend lives on to this day, with countless books, movies, and television shows recounting his exploits and adventures.

For more information on the life and death of Billy the Kid, you can visit History.com for a detailed overview of his criminal career and ultimate demise. Additionally, BillytheKid.com offers a wealth of resources and information on the infamous outlaw.

In conclusion, the question of who shot and killed Billy the Kid in 1881 may never be definitively answered. However, the legend of this notorious outlaw continues to captivate audiences around the world, making him a lasting symbol of the Wild West and its larger-than-life characters.

Sign Up