Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 900 block of South Plum on the east side.
The little building at 918 S. Plum started out in 1938 as Chuck's Bar-B-Q, owned by Charles Snowden.
Later, it was purchased by Robert R. Lee and became Robert Lee Bar-B-Q and Fried Chicken.
On Sept. 15, 1972, a terrible event took place here.
While on an undercover alcohol-purchasing sting, officers Mike Coldren and Ken Kennedy were shot in a scuffle with Elmo Anderson by Helen Fletcher.
As the officers scuffled with Anderson, Fletcher emerged from the kitchen with a revolver and shot both officers.
Kennedy died of his wounds and Coldren was forced to retire from active duty.
Kennedy shot Mrs. Fletcher twice before he died but she survived. Mrs. Fletcher was convicted of second-degree murder. The first photo is from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center. A basic class No. 13 called "End of Tour" describing the event.
The second photo is the police photo from the night of the killing outside the restaurant.
The third photo is an evidence photo of the murder weapon and the location where it was found.
The K-61 freeway now bears the name of Officer Ken Kennedy in memoriam.
The fourth photo shows the little building today at 918 S. Plum where Leslie Bodine operates The Mane Tamer Beauty Salon. The building is owned by Johnnie and Leslie Bodine.
To purchase a photo print, contact: sharmon5@cox.net.
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
Anchor Inn and Anchor Away