Hunter in Auto Slain Near Plattsburg; Four Men Accused, Two Customs Deputies

The New York Times
November 24, 1922

PLATTSBURG, Nov. 23.—Four men, two of them customs officials, were released tonight on $5,000 bail for a hearing Monday, charged with complicity in the shooting late today of John L. Brissette of Plattsburgh. Brissette, who was shot near the outskirts of the city while returning in an automobile from a hunting trip, died in the Champlain Hospital here tonight.

The men on bail said they were Steven Quinn of Plattsburgh and Lawrence J. Farley of Rouses Point, Deputy Collectors of Customs; Alfred Bursey a garage proprietor, and Ephriam Foshier, a chauffeur, both of Plattsburgh.

Brissette was riding in the rear seat of a touring car driven by Urias Martin of Plattsburgh and with Mrs. Martin as third occupant. As they reached the outskirts of this city, according to Martin, some one flashed a light on the car from the side of the road, but no order to halt nor other cry was given. Martin continued on his way, but on hearing a shot and hearing the bullet tear the rear curtain, slowed down to a stop. A second shot missed the car and a third penetrated the rear curtain.

Men who said they were customs officers then appeared and began a search of the car. Investigation of the rear revealed Brissette on the floor, shot through the head and apparently dying. He was taken to the Champlain Hospital by Martin, accompanied by the men, and died soon after his arrival.

The Sheriff and customs officials began an investigation of the case behind closed doors tonight.