The Killing on Spaus Creek:
John Mason Pitts & Johnnie Bowen
"In August 1933, a shooting along Spaws Creek in Menifee County left Johnnie Bowen dead and his brother-in-law, John Mason Pitts, facing a murder charge. What followed was a story of family tensions, claims of self-defense, fears of mob violence, and ultimately an acquittal that divided opinion throughout the community.
Timeline of Events
- August 20, 1933 – The Shooting: Johnnie Bowen was killed near Spaws Creek in Menifee County following an altercation with his brother-in-law, John Mason Pitts. Pitts later surrendered in Frenchburg claiming self-defense.
Lexington Herald, August 21, 1933 - August 24, 1933 — Arrest and Charges: Pitts was lodged in the Menifee County jail on a murder charge while authorities investigated the shooting.
The Mt. Sterling Advocate, August 24, 1933 - August 29, 1933 - Pitts transferred to Montgomery and later Fayette County jail for safekeeping.
The Sentinel Democrat, August 31, 1933
August 30, 1933 — Bound Over to Grand Jury: Pitts waived examination and was bound over to the September grand jury with bond fixed at $2,500. - March 1934 - Pitts Acquitted of the murder of Johnnie Bowen.
The Mt Sterling Advocate, March 29, 1934 - February 2, 1941 – Death & Burial: John Mason Pitts dies following a shooting in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky.
The Lexington Herald Leader, February 3, 1941
The Sentinel-Democrat, August 24, 1933
Death Certificate of John Mason Pitts
By the winter of 1941, another shooting had claimed the life of John Mason Pitts himself. The death certificate shown below marks the final surviving public record of a man whose name had once filled newspaper headlines across Menifee, Montgomery, and Fayette Counties.
Aftermath & Memory:
The killing on Spaws Creek remained part of local memory for many years. Johnnie Bowen left behind a wife and two small children, while John Mason Pitts continued on with his life following acquittal. Like many mountain tragedies of the era, the full truth of what happened that August day likely died with the men involved.
The killing on Spaws Creek remained part of local memory for many years. Johnnie Bowen left behind a wife and two small children, while John Mason Pitts continued on with his life following acquittal. Like many mountain tragedies of the era, the full truth of what happened that August day likely died with the men involved.
This story is part of the Rebecca's Treasures Family History Project.
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Last updated: June 28, 2026
Return to Voices from the Past | Visit Rebecca's Treasures
Last updated: June 28, 2026