Marshal Middleton was shot and killed by a young man causing a disturbance.

On December 24, 1901, A group of young men were giving Marshal Middleton trouble during the evening and he had locked up five of the group. A 21 year-old had avoided the arrest but continued to follow Marshal Middleton causing a disturbance. Marshal Middleton warned the man if he didn't cease he would arrest him. The youth continued the disturbance and Marshal Middleton started for him in front of Davis Brothers Livery Stable at 10:30 pm. The suspect pulled a revolver and shot Marshal Middleton in the left temple. Marshal Middleton died within the hour.

An inquest determined the shooting to be murder. The suspect was arrested immediately but ultimately acquitted.

Marshal Middleton had only one arm and was elected marshal in the Spring. Interred: Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Paris, MO.