Deputy Constable

Ophir Canyon, Nye County

August 31, 1867

Richard P. Ryan was shot and killed just moments after being deputized as a Constable in Ophir Canyon, Nye County.

Deputy Constable Ryan was trying to enforce an order of the court to seize two Mules in a Civil Action. One of the owners of the Mules, William Twaddle drew down on Ryan.

The two exchanged gun fire and Deputy Constable Ryan was mortally wounded. Deputy Constable Ryan died on the streets of Ophir City, Nye County.

Deputy Constable Richard P. Ryan was the first Law Enforcement Officer in Nye County to lose his life serving the public.