Date of Birth:
1892
Date of Death:
July 12, 1939
Location of Death:
Chicago, IL
Circumstances of Death
Special Agent Benjamin Richard Smallwood was returning to the Chicago field office in his government automobile, after an unsuccessful attempt to locate a fugitive. As he drove along, his car was reportedly forced off the road and into a light pole at the Canal Street Bridge. The other driver was never identified. Agent Smallwood was rushed to the hospital suffering from head and chest injuries, but died shortly thereafter.
Background
Agent Smallwood joined the Bureau of Prohibition on December 7, 1928, and was assigned to the Chicago Field Division. He carried badge #462. Previously, he proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1917 to 1919.
Personal
Agent Smallwood was born in Louisiana. He was survived by his wife and their son, John.