On May 17, 1919, Deputy Thomas Albert Fay was off duty when he and his wife of seventeen
days were driving their truck at the intersection of Highway 80 and Lookout Avenue (now El Cajon Boulevard and La Mesa Boulevard). Deputy Fay noticed an argument between two men, Al Miller and Dr. Lewis Gilman, D.D.S., near the Gilman residence. Miller’s wife, Rose, his sister, Mrs. J.A. Parks, and Gilman’s wife were standing nearby. Deputy Fay stopped to investigate the nature of the disturbance. He soon learned that at issue was the shooting of a rabbit by Miller, who used a shotgun loaded with birdshot to shoot the rabbit. Gilman thought that Miller had shot at him and became enraged, voicing obscene and vulgar language, and demanded that Deputy Fay arrest Miller. Miller explained the true nature of his action and insisted that Gilman be arrested for disturbing the peace.

During the investigation, Deputy Fay accompanied Gilman to his residence to inspect for any damage that may have been caused by Miller’s shots. Deputy Fay and Mrs. Gilman remained on the porch as Gilman entered the residence. Mrs. Gilman began a verbal tirade, directing abusive language at Deputy Fay. Shortly, Gilman appeared at the door armed with an automatic pistol and, without warning, shot Deputy Fay, killing him instantly. Gilman fired additional shots at Rose Miller and her sister, Mrs. Parks. Neither woman was injured, and Mrs. Parks began struggling with Gilman for the weapon. Miller came to her aid and, after a fierce fight, bludgeoned Gilman with a cobblestone. Telephone calls were placed requesting assistance and Sheriff’s Deputy Goset responded to the scene, arresting the injured Gilman. Gilman was later convicted of murder and sentenced to prison.

Thomas Albert Fay was born March 17, 1890, in Kansas City, Wyandotte County, Kansas.  Prior to joining the Sheriff’s Office, he was a patrolman with the San Diego Police Department from October 28, 1918 to January 1, 1919.

Deputy Thomas Fay was survived by his new wife and two children from a previous marriage.