Debunking Brushy: Did Pat Garrett Kill the Wrong Man?

The question under scrutiny this week, which has sparked considerable controversy among the Brushy group, revolves around the statement made by Deputy John Poe moments after Pat Garrett claimed to have shot Billy the Kid. In his book, "The Death of Billy the Kid," Poe questions Garrett's claim and states, "Pat, the Kid would not come to this place; you have shot the wrong man." What was Poe implying with this statement? Did Garrett kill the wrong person?

On the night of July 14th, 1881, Billy the Kid was shot and killed by Sheriff Pat Garrett. Why has this been so difficult for some to comprehend or accept? When Billy fell to the floor of Pat Maxwell's bedroom, a couple of significant events occurred. Firstly, fate intervened and placed Pat Garrett precisely where he needed to be at that precise moment. Secondly, Pat Garrett also experienced a stroke of good old-fashioned luck. However, the question persists: why did Poe believe Garrett had shot the wrong man?

To understand the reasoning behind Poe's statement, one must consider the context in which it was made. Close examination of his book reveals that Poe had little faith in the success of their mission to find the Kid that night. According to Poe, even Garrett doubted the mission's success and questioned whether they would find the Kid in Fort Sumner.

Poe states, "Garrett seemed to have little confidence in our ability to accomplish the objective of our trip." He further adds, "Garrett stated that he believed we were on a wild goose chase and had little faith in our ability to achieve anything."

The decision was made to visit Pete Maxwell's residence to inquire about the Kid's whereabouts. Garrett remained inside, conversing with Pete, while Deputy Poe and McKenny sat outside on the porch. Poe again reveals his state of mind as the Kid approached him.

"As Maxwell's was the one place in Fort Sumner that I had considered above suspicion of harboring the Kid, I was entirely off my guard, thinking that the approaching figure was either Maxwell or one of his guests."

Through Deputy Poe's own words, it becomes evident that he had doubts about Billy's presence in the area, let alone his foolishness to stumble upon them at precisely the right time. This explains his initial hesitation when Garrett informed him about the Kid's demise. Continuing to read Poe's account of that night, we see how he addresses his hesitation and firmly asserts that Billy was indeed shot. Garrett addresses Poe's doubts by stating, "I am sure that was him (Billy), for I know his voice too well to be mistaken." Poe further admits, "This remark from Garrett alleviated my considerable apprehension."

Lastly, Poe corrects his earlier statement regarding Maxwell's home being above suspicion. "By this time, I had begun to realize that we were in a place that was not beyond suspicion, contrary to my initial belief about Maxwell's residence."

The initial statement of doubt expressed by Deputy Poe has fueled the Brushy group for years. As with most stories and conspiracies, this single statement, taken out of context, has taken on a life of its own. Tales have arisen, suggesting that Poe was present in the bedroom, flipping over the body of an unidentified man, and informing Garrett that he had killed the wrong person. These stories are baseless and lack any truth.

Consider this: if Deputy Poe genuinely believed that Pat Garrett had shot the wrong man, would he have stated so in his book, which discusses the death of Billy the Kid? It defies logic and makes no sense. Poe's remark was merely a knee-jerk reaction in the heat of the moment, as even he could hardly believe that fate had shone so brightly upon them that night.