Nighthawk | Tales of the Texas Rangers (03-30-52)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns – "Nighthawk | Tales of the Texas Rangers" (03-30-52)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: July 16, 2025

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Introduction

In the episode titled "Nighthawk," part of the "Tales of the Texas Rangers" series, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners to Tipton, Texas, in the summer of 1948. This classic Western radio drama, featuring Joel McCrae as Ranger Jace Pearson, delves into a gripping tale of robbery, betrayal, and justice in the untamed frontier.

Characters

• Ranger Jace Pearson (Joel McCrae): The seasoned Texas Ranger leading the investigation.
• Todd Miller: A young man attending the graduation dance at Carroll College.
• Joanie: Todd Miller's sister, present at the dance.
• Julie Thomas: The injured girl involved in the robbery.
• Ernest "Red" Crockett: The primary suspect in the robbery and murder.
• Sheriff Wilson: Local sheriff assisting in the investigation.
• Deputy Charlie: Sheriff Wilson's deputy.

The Graduation Dance and Robbery

The story begins at the Carroll College graduation dance in Tipton, Texas. Todd Miller and his sister Joanie are enjoying the evening when they find themselves in the car two miles outside town, approaching a small airfield used for private planes.

Joanie expresses concern about Todd's fatigue:

Joanie [00:07]: "You're not tired, are you, Joanie?"
Todd Miller [00:08]: "My feet are. That Will Appleton. It's your fraternity brother, Todd. Why haven't you taught him to dance?"

As they converse under the bright moonlight, an ominous presence emerges.

Joanie notices a suspicious figure approaching:

Joanie [03:46]: "Looks like he's coming right toward us, Joanie."

A masked man, wearing a black stocking over his head and gloves, confronts them.

The Robber's Threat:

Robber [04:04]: "This is a stick up. Get out of the car."

The tense encounter escalates when Johnny Gordon, presumably Todd's friend or brother, intervenes to protect Joanie, resulting in Johnny being shot.

Aftermath and Initial Investigation

Following the robbery and Johnny's shooting, Todd drives Joanie to the hospital and notifies her parents and Sheriff Wilson. Sheriff Wilson promptly dispatches deputies and calls in Ranger Jace Pearson to assist with the investigation.

Ranger Jace Pearson reassures Todd:

Ranger Jace Pearson [06:05]: "I shouldn't have done what he said. I should have stayed with Joanie."
Todd Miller [06:18]: "You did just what you had to do, son. I don't reckon you had much choice."

Ranger Pearson begins piecing together the details of the robbery, noting the masked man's behavior and the subsequent getaway.

Ranger Pearson inquires about the suspect:

Ranger Jace Pearson [06:54]: "Any idea what kind of a car it was?"
Todd Miller [06:56]: "Well, it looked like an old jalopy. I was too far away to see what kind of it was going pretty fast, though."

Identifying the Suspect

The investigation leads to Julie Thomas, the girl injured during the robbery, who provides a crucial description of the suspect.

Julie details her encounter:

Joanie [11:07]: "I saw his face. He made us get out of the car. Then he took my pocketbook and Johnny's wallet. Johnny started to fight with him. He pulled the mask off the man's face."

She identifies the man as Ernest "Red" Crockett, characterized by his red hair and crooked nose.

Julie provides a vivid description:

Joanie [12:04]: "Yes. Yes, he does. And kind of a crooked nose."

Ranger Pearson and Sheriff Wilson obtain a search warrant to find Crockett but discover his room empty, indicating he may have fled.

Confrontation and Capture

As the Rangers continue their pursuit, a critical development occurs when Deputy Sheriff Charlie is wounded in a gunfight at the Estanita Café, believed to be by Crockett.

Radio Communication Alert:

Ranger Pearson [25:45]: "Unit 10 to KTXA. Go ahead, KTXA."
Todd Miller [25:49]: "Deputy Sheriff has been wounded in gunfight in Estanita Cafe by a man believed to be Ernest Crockett. Hey. The subject escaped after resisting arrest. Holy smoke."

The meticulous search leads Ranger Pearson and Todd Miller to an alley near the freight yard, where Crockett is spotted attempting to hide.

Ranger Pearson confronts Crockett:

Ranger Jace Pearson [27:02]: "Come on, Crockett. You were so anxious to have a train ride. Now I'm gonna see you get one all the way to Huntsville."

Through determination and strategic maneuvering, Crockett is apprehended, ensuring that justice is served.

Conclusion of the Case

The episode concludes with the resolution of the case. Julie Thomas's identification of Ernest Crockett, combined with ballistic evidence, leads to his conviction.

Case Outcome:

Todd Miller [28:41]: "Julie Thomas made a positive identification of Ernest Crockett and ballistics evidence proved that Crockett's gun had killed Johnny Gordon. Crockett was indicted and on July 9, 1948, was found guilty of murder with malice. At three minutes past midnight on September 15, 1949, Crockett died in the electric chair at Huntsville."

Key Themes and Insights

• Courage and Responsibility: Todd's decision to intervene, despite the risks, exemplifies the bravery often highlighted in Western tales.

• Justice and Persistence: Ranger Jace Pearson's relentless pursuit of the truth underscores the unwavering commitment of lawmen in maintaining order.

• Community and Support: The involvement of Sheriff Wilson, Deputy Charlie, and the townspeople illustrates the collective effort in addressing and resolving criminal activities.

Notable Quotes

• Joanie on the Robber's Intentions [04:00]:

  "He's got a gun. Todd."

• Ranger Pearson on Identification Challenges [07:14]:

  "How tall was he?"

• Joanie's Emotional Plea [19:17]:

  "He can. I know he can."

• Ranger Pearson's Assurance [21:47]:

  "Sure. Sheriff and his deputy will be there, too. You don't have to worry."

• Ranger Pearson on Justice [23:12]:

  "Even without your help, we're gonna keep after this man till we get enough evidence to convict him."

Conclusion

"Nighthawk | Tales of the Texas Rangers" offers a compelling narrative that encapsulates the essence of the Wild West's heroic lawmen and the challenges they faced. Through detailed storytelling and authentic character portrayals, the episode delivers an engaging account of justice prevailing in the face of adversity.

For listeners who haven't experienced this episode, "Nighthawk" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Texas Rangers and their pivotal role in safeguarding their communities during tumultuous times.

Transcript

[Joanie]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now, let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCrae as Ranger Jace Pearson. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Names, dates and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record.

[Commercial Announcer]

Every day, Monday through Friday, there's top entertainment all day long. When you set your radio dial to NBC, listen for Double or Nothing, and you'll hear one of radio's funniest quiz shows. Yes, Walter o' Keefe consistently comes up with great comedy entertainment Monday through Friday on Double or Nothing. Listen and you'll agree. And then there's the program of the heart. Strike It Rich. The grand entertainment that Warren Hull brings you every day on Strike It Rich is just what the doctor ordered. If you suffer from the housework blues from Chicago, Tommy Bartlett brings you welcome travelers and interviews with the many interesting guests who each day passed through the Windy City. And then, for more fun, listen for Bob and Ray, those two zany comics. Then there's music and charm with dial Dave Garraway. So remember, every day, Monday through Friday, chase your blues away with the wonderful daytime programs on this station of the NBC Radio Network. And now, here's today's adventure with the tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator]

And now, from the files of the Texas Rangers, the case called nighthawk.

[Todd Miller]

It is 12:30 on a Friday night, early in June, 1948 in the town of Tipton, Texas. The graduation dance at Carroll College has.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Been over for half an hour.

[Todd Miller]

Two miles outside town, a car drives toward a small airfield used during the day as a landing place for a few private planes. The field and the single hangar are.

[Narrator]

Dark as the car rolls to a stop on the road bordering the fields.

[Todd Miller]

You're not tired, are you, Joanie?

[Joanie]

My feet are. That Will Appleton. It's your fraternity brother, Todd. Why haven't you taught him to dance?

[Todd Miller]

What, you mean step on your toes?

[Joanie]

I just don't see how any boy could be so graceful on a football field. And, oh, well, who wants to talk about Will Appleton? Anyhow, It's a nice dance in spite of him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Mm.

[Todd Miller]

And nice out here, too. Moon makes everything so bright.

[Joanie]

I like the half moon. Everybody's always talking about how pretty a full moon is, but what's. Manager, somebody's coming down the road.

[Todd Miller]

Oh, probably some hand off one of.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The farms walking home.

[Joanie]

Looks like he's coming right toward us, Joanie.

[Todd Miller]

You just imagine things.

[Joanie]

He'll go on past Todd. He's got something over his face, like some kind of mask.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah, looks like he's stopping with holes cut out.

[Joanie]

He's got a gun. Todd.

[Todd Miller]

Get out. Hey, what is this? Shut up. I don't want to hear nothing out of either of you. This is a stick up.

[Joanie]

Oh.

[Todd Miller]

Get out of the car. Come on.

[Joanie]

I'm getting.

[Todd Miller]

I'm getting. Now you too, sister. Not that way. Slide over and get out this side.

[Joanie]

What do you want?

[Todd Miller]

Give me a pocketbook.

[Joanie]

No money in it.

[Todd Miller]

Give it to me. Now look here, you can't do that. I told you to shut up. Now give me your wallet. It's better. What's the matter with you, Sister? You got nothing to cry about. All right, now both of you start walking down that road and don't look back. Come on, Joni, don't be fr. Wait a minute. You stop walking down the road alone. You're gonna stay with me, Sister. You can't do God walking on. Blow your head off. All right, I'm going. Fast, dog, don't I. Get moving. Okay, Sister. Now you and me are gonna take a little war.

[Joanie]

Go on. Me?

[Todd Miller]

Oh, be that way, baby. You and me.

[Joanie]

No. No.

[Todd Miller]

Shut up.

[Joanie]

Get away. Shut up.

[Todd Miller]

Shut up. Shut up.

[Joanie]

Shut up. Johnny. Jon. Oh, Joni.

[Todd Miller]

He's all right, Joanie.

[Joanie]

He's gone. Here, let me help. Let me help.

[Todd Miller]

Todd Miller put the girl in his car and drove back to town. After taking her to the hospital, he notified her parents and the sheriff. Sheriff Wilson dispatched deputies to the scene of the robbery and requested assistance from the Texas Rangers. As soon as he had spoken to the girl, the sheriff drove back to the airfield with Todd. Minutes later, Ranger Jace Pearson, who was assigned to the case, reached the field.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Howdy, Sheriff.

[Todd Miller]

This Todd Miller. Jason Ring. He's the boy who was held up.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Report said you weren't able to identify the man who robbed you. Is that right?

[Todd Miller]

Yes, sir. He had a black stocking over his head. I could only see his eyes.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Where's the car you were driving, Todd?

[Todd Miller]

I left it in town. Sheriff brought me back here. If you're thinking about Prince Jace, I.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Reckon we're out of luck.

[Todd Miller]

Todd here says the fella had on gloves. Uh huh.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How about the girl? She hurt bad?

[Todd Miller]

She'll be all right. Shaken up quite a bit, though. And he must have hit her an awful whack. Doc thinks her jaw Might be broken. I shouldn't have done what he said. I should have stayed with Joanie. You did just what you had to do, son. I don't reckon you had much choice.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Todd. Could you see which way he headed after he left the girl?

[Todd Miller]

Well, I'm not sure, but I thought I saw him running across the field toward the hangar. And then after I got Joanie into my car, I saw a car drive out from behind the hangar and start off down the road.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Any idea what kind of a car it was?

[Todd Miller]

Well, it looked like an old jalopy. I was too far away to see what kind of it was going pretty fast, though. One of my deputies found some fresh oil stains over by the hangar. Jake.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We'll go over in a minute and take a look. Todd, I want you to try to remember anything you can about this man. Anything.

[Todd Miller]

All happened so fast. There's not much about him I remember.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How tall was he?

[Todd Miller]

Well, I'd say about my height.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Can you describe his voice?

[Todd Miller]

Well, he never talked out loud, just whispered. A real horse whispered.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Anything else?

[Todd Miller]

Well, the way he walked right up to the car, like he'd been waiting for us. Just walked up, made us get out.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, Todd. I think that'll be all, Ranger.

[Todd Miller]

You think I could get back to town soon? I'm kind of worried about Joan.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It's all right with the sheriff. He can send you back in his car with one of the deputies. You can come along with me, Sheriff.

[Todd Miller]

Sure, Jase.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We'll drive over to the hangar and have a look at those oil spots first.

[Todd Miller]

Just let me tell my deputy. Charlie, you take Todd back to town in my car. I'll be with the ranger. Thank you, Sheriff. He sure looks like a tough one, Jason.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, but I got a hunch we can narrow it down to one of your local boys.

[Todd Miller]

How do you figure that?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, for one thing, the way he was so particular about keeping his face hidden and whispering to disguise his voice.

[Todd Miller]

It does sound like he wanted to make sure he wouldn't be recognized. But it might have been some stranger who just didn't want to take chances on getting his description broadcast.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Could be a stranger, except for one thing. The fact that he was well enough acquainted with the town to know where couples might be likely to park after a dance. It's more like a little 10 to KTXA. Go ahead. KTXA Sheriff's office has received call.

[Narrator]

That man in stocking mask has just.

[Todd Miller]

Held up couple at Carroll College football field.

[Narrator]

Man shot, possibly dead.

[Todd Miller]

Request this information be relayed to Sheriff, Football field straight along this road on the outskirts of town. Jace.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, 104. Sheriff is with this unit. Unit 10, proceeding to scene at once. Four minutes after we received the radio call, we were approaching the column college football field. We saw a car sitting in the center of the parking area and 10 or 12 people grouped around something on the grass a little distance away. Man standing near the car beckoned to us urgently. Pulled up a few feet away from him.

[Todd Miller]

Howdy, Sheriff. Ranger Snyder's my name. Cliff Snyder. I heard the shots from my house over there. It's an awful thing. Just awful.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You wanted to show us something, Mr. Snyder?

[Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Todd Miller]

The boy's lying over here. I think he's dead. Where is Mr. Snyder? Right around the corner of the car there. Yeah. Such an awful thing. Young boy like this and so much blood. I never seen so much blood. Nothing all my life. Is he dead?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Two bullets in his chest. He didn't have much of a chance.

[Todd Miller]

We're sure he was dead that way. I wouldn't let nobody come too close till you got here. He's awful. Just awful.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Is the girl with those people over there?

[Todd Miller]

That's right. Somebody put a coat down on the grass for her. She gets shot too? No, no, no. But she got hurt a little. Told her she ran away when this fella shot the bull boy run toward the football stands, tripped and hit her head. Jace, if she's hurt bad, we'll have to get her to a dock ourselves. I know the ambulance had to go over to Cedar Falls on an emergency.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Let's get over and see her.

[Todd Miller]

Who is the girl? Julie Thomas. Works in the drugstore. She don't know the boy's dead.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You know the dead boy's name, Mr. Snyder?

[Todd Miller]

No. No, I don't seen him around town though. But I reckon you'll have to get his name from Julie. Uh huh. Will you let us through, folks? Let us through, please. All right, will you stand back, please? Julie. Julie, how you feeling?

[Joanie]

My. My head hurts a little. Is Johnny all right?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I mean, look at your head.

[Joanie]

Miss, I gotta know about Johnny. They wouldn't let me go to him. I'm sure he's hurt bad. How bad is Johnny hurt?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No, not really. You just realized, miss, we don't like to ask questions at a time like this, but there are a few things we have to know.

[Joanie]

He shot Johnny. Johnny shouldn't have fought with him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What's Johnny's last name?

[Joanie]

Gordon. I. I told Johnny not to fight with him.

[Todd Miller]

Julie, is Johnny's home here in Tipton No, Spartanville.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Do you remember anything about the man who shot Johnny? Something that might help us identify him?

[Joanie]

I saw his face.

[Todd Miller]

You what?

[Joanie]

He. He made us get out of the car. Then he took my pocketbook and Johnny's wallet. Johnny started to fight with him. He pulled the mask off the man's face.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You know the man, Liz?

[Joanie]

Not his name, But I've seen him around the drugstore. He works at the dairy, I think.

[Todd Miller]

Would you recognize him if you saw him again?

[Joanie]

Yes. I'll never forget him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We'd like you to come to the sheriff's office in the morning and make a written statement. We may need you to identify the man if we find him.

[Joanie]

I'll identify him.

[Todd Miller]

What's the matter?

[Joanie]

I just remembered this man who shot Johnny around the drugstore. I've heard people call him Red.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Does he have red hair?

[Joanie]

Yes. Yes, he does. And kind of a crooked nose.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Thanks, miss. That could help a lot.

[Joanie]

Will you let me go to Johnny now, Julie, Johnny's dad is.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm sorry, miss.

[Joanie]

Dad. We were going to be married, Julie. I think you were married in September. We were going to have a big wedding. I always wanted a big wedding.

[Todd Miller]

Come on, Julie. We'll take you to a doctor. You had a pretty bad bump on the head.

[Joanie]

I want to go home.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Is anybody there who can take care of you?

[Joanie]

My father's on the road. He's a salesman.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How about your mother?

[Joanie]

She died a long time ago.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, then maybe.

[Joanie]

Please. Please, I want to go home. I don't want to see any people now. If I need anybody, I'll call the lady next door.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We'll take you home. The sheriff's right. You should see a doctor first.

[Joanie]

All right. Ranger.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yes?

[Joanie]

You sure Johnny's dead? You sure?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yes, miss. I'm afraid so.

[Todd Miller]

I see.

[Joanie]

Oh, Johnny. Johnny.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

As soon as the justice of the Peace arrived, we drove Julie to a doctor. He said she'd be all right. So we took her home and told her we'd phone her when we needed her. Sheriff and I spent the rest of the night checking on the lead Julie had given us. We learned that a man named Ernest Crockett, sometimes called Red, had worked for the dairy until a week before when he was fired. At 7 that morning we found out that Crockett lived in a room above a feed store. He got a search warrant and went there.

[Todd Miller]

I sure hope Julie's got the right man.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

She gave pretty positive identification.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah, but she was excited. She might have seen a man with a broken nose and thought it was this Red.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It shouldn't take us long to find out if she's right. As soon as we get Red down to your office, we'll call Julie and have her try to identify him.

[Todd Miller]

You mean if we find Red, we could have trouble doing that? Uh huh.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

This is as good a place as any to start.

[Todd Miller]

It should be the room.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Try it.

[Todd Miller]

Empty?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Todd Miller]

You reckon he skipped?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Maybe. We'll get back to the car. I'll ask headquarters to put out an all points bulletin on him.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah. If he has gone anywhere, it's a cincinji.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Hasn't got far.

[Todd Miller]

Murder took place at 2:30. That'd only leave him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Hold it, Sheriff. Somebody coming upstairs.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah, that could be Crockett.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Stay on your toes. He might try something.

[Todd Miller]

If he's our man. I almost hope he does.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Be careful.

[Todd Miller]

What's this all about?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You Red Croggett?

[Commercial Announcer]

Yeah. What do you want?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'd like to ask you some questions.

[Todd Miller]

Who said you can come in here?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

This.

[Todd Miller]

Search one, huh? Okay.

[Commercial Announcer]

What do you want to know?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Put your hands over your head, huh? Risk him, Sheriff?

[Todd Miller]

Nothing on him. Jace. What'd you expect to find?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Where were you last night?

[Todd Miller]

Out.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Where?

[Todd Miller]

All around town. I'm the restless type. Hate to stay in one place too long.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Were you with anybody?

[Todd Miller]

No. I don't like crowds much.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, Crockett. You're coming with us down to the sheriff's office.

[Todd Miller]

What for?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We think you might have had something to do with two robberies and a murder last night.

[Todd Miller]

Me? Hey, you're crazy.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

If you're innocent, you'll have a chance to prove it. What do you mean? Somebody got a good look at the killer. Let's go find out what happens when she gets a look at you.

[Narrator]

In just a moment, we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson.

[Commercial Announcer]

Friends, permit me a serious word. Think now of those families. More than 2,000 families who were made homeless by tornadoes in six states. Thousands of people are picking through the rubble of their homes. You would help them if you could. I know that. And you are helping them through your American Red Cross. Even as I speak to you now, your Red Cross is there feeding and sheltering the homeless, caring for the sick and injured. Your Red Cross has made an initial allocation of $1 million for emergency relief. And that is only the beginning. So great is the destruction, so great is the need. Your Red Cross has had to increase its $85 million fund goal by $5 million. After the emergency period has passed, there will be homes to rebuild and people to restore to health and livelihood. You, your family and your home were spared. Help those who weren't. The need is great. The need is now. So answer the call and please give generously through your American Red Cross. Now back to Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator]

We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story. Nighthawk.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We took Rocket to the sheriff's office and left him with a deputy. Then I phoned Julie Thomas. There was no answer. Sheriff and I drove to her house and found it locked. The woman next door told us Julie had left early that morning for nearby town of Spartanville to stay with a girlfriend. After some persuasion, the woman gave us the girlfriend's name and address. We went to Spartanville and located the house.

[Todd Miller]

I still don't figure it, Jace. Why would she want to skip out like this without letting us know?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

She was pretty upset last night, Sheriff. Chances are she still is.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah, but there's something funny about this, and I don't like it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I can't say I do either.

[Joanie]

Who's there?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Ranger Pearson, Sheriff. And I'd like to talk to you. Julie.

[Joanie]

Why'd you come after me? Why don't you leave me alone?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Can we come in?

[Joanie]

All right.

[Todd Miller]

Your girlfriend around?

[Joanie]

She had to go out.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Is that your coffee on the table, Julie?

[Joanie]

Yes. You want some?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No, thanks. But you finish yours. Then we want you to come back to Tipton with us.

[Joanie]

I'm not going.

[Todd Miller]

Julie, what's the matter?

[Joanie]

I just don't want to go back. I want to stay right here in Spartanville.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We think we found the man we're looking for. We'd like you to identify him.

[Joanie]

I don't believe I could.

[Todd Miller]

But you told us last night you'd recognize him anywhere.

[Joanie]

I know it, but I can't remember anymore.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

But didn't you see the man who shot Johnny?

[Joanie]

I thought I did, but I guess I was wrong.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, Julie. If there's anything we can do for you, just let us know.

[Joanie]

You're not gonna make me come?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We can't make you do anything if you don't want to do it.

[Joanie]

What are you gonna do with the man you caught?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Reckon we'll have to let him go. Nothing else we can do. Come on, Sheriff.

[Joanie]

Ranger.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Huh?

[Joanie]

Ranger. Oh, I'm scared. I'm so scared.

[Todd Miller]

Here now, Julie, you just sit down right over here.

[Joanie]

Don't let him get me. Please don't let him get me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Let who get you?

[Joanie]

The man who shot Johnny. He told me if I said anything about him, he'd Kill me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

When was this?

[Joanie]

This morning, right after I got home.

[Todd Miller]

You mean he was at your house?

[Joanie]

No. No, he phoned. He said if I told, he'd kill me, no matter how long it took. And I'm so scared.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Julie. Your pocketbook that was taken. Was there any identification in it?

[Joanie]

My driver's license. I can still hear his voice. Like a knife that went right through me.

[Todd Miller]

Now, he can't do anything to you, Julie.

[Joanie]

He can. I know he can.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Not if he's in jail.

[Joanie]

He'll break out. He'll find me and kill me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Let me ask you something. You want to spend the rest of your life knowing that the man who killed Johnny is free?

[Joanie]

Ranger, please.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You can be sure he won't stop with Johnny. He'll rob again, even kill again.

[Joanie]

I don't know what to do. I just don't know.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It's up to you, Julie. We can't force you to identify him. But you're not being fair to Johnny if you don't.

[Joanie]

All right. I'll come with you. I'll identify the man who killed Johnny Ranger. I won't have to stay long in the same room with him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Only a couple of minutes, Julie. Just so we can be sure you'll have time to recognize him.

[Joanie]

I'm afraid of him. His eyes and. And that red hair that stands up all over his head. I could see him so clear even when he was talking to me on the phone.

[Todd Miller]

Now, you don't have to be scared of a thing. You just identify him, and we'll make sure he's behind bars for a long time.

[Joanie]

Won't he get the electric chair?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It'll be up to the judge.

[Todd Miller]

Go ahead in, Julie.

[Joanie]

Is he in there?

[Todd Miller]

No, he's in the next office.

[Joanie]

Oh.

[Todd Miller]

I'll just go on through and see if everything's ready, Jason.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sit down, Julie.

[Joanie]

No, thank you.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You don't have to be frightened about a thing.

[Joanie]

You keep saying that, but I'm still scared. I'm scared to death.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I know you are. I wish there was some way I could help you not to be.

[Joanie]

You'll stay with me, won't you, Ranger? The whole time I'm in there with him?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sure. Sheriff and his deputy will be there, too. You don't have to worry. Now remember, Julie, don't say a thing while you're in there. Just look at him and listen to his voice.

[Joanie]

All right, Ranger.

[Todd Miller]

Stand up, Crockett. What's your full name? You know my name. What are you asking for? What's your full name? Ernest Crockett, where do you live?

[Commercial Announcer]

Lockett.

[Todd Miller]

Okay. 245 Esperanza Street. You own a gun? Of course not. I never owned a gun in my life.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

That's enough, Sheriff. Come on, Julie.

[Todd Miller]

Take over, Charlie. Sit down, Julie. Here, take his chair.

[Joanie]

Thanks, I. I will. Sit down.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Now, was that the man you saw last night?

[Todd Miller]

No, Julie.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You sure you didn't recognize him?

[Joanie]

I never saw him before in my life.

[Todd Miller]

But, Julie, the red hair and the broken nose you told us about, he must be the one.

[Joanie]

How many times do I have to tell you? I never saw him. I never saw him.

[Todd Miller]

You know what I think, Julie?

[Joanie]

I don't care. He's not the man I think.

[Todd Miller]

You're not telling us the truth.

[Joanie]

You're gonna prove it. You gonna make me say something I don't want to?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Julie, I told you before. We can't force you to say anything. But sooner or later, we'll find other evidence against this man. When he comes to trial, you'll be put on the stand under oath.

[Joanie]

I swear I never saw him before.

[Todd Miller]

If the judge finds out you're lying, you could go to jail.

[Joanie]

Then I'll go to jail, Julie.

[Todd Miller]

I declare. I wish I could talk some sense into you.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You better go release Crockett, Sheriff, and we'll take Julie home.

[Todd Miller]

All right, I'll.

[Joanie]

I wish.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Forget it, Julie. You do whatever you feel you have to do. But even without your help, we're gonna keep after this man till we get enough evidence to convict him.

[Joanie]

I wanna do the right thing, but when I looked at his eyes. I've gotta go away. I've gotta leave here today.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, that's the way you want it. Where you figure on going?

[Joanie]

I don't know yet. Somewhere out of the state. I'll go up to Dallas first, tell my father what's happened.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right. We'll stay with you till train time.

[Todd Miller]

Almost ready, Julie.

[Joanie]

Just about a few more things I want to get out of this hall closet.

[Todd Miller]

You better hurry it up a little. It's 5:40 now. Your train leaves in less than an hour.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You've still got time to change your mind. Julie.

[Joanie]

It's. It's no use, Ranger. Excuse me a minute. Hello?

[Todd Miller]

When are you gonna get rid of the cops?

[Joanie]

Shortly.

[Todd Miller]

You better make it fast. I'm watching you, baby. And I'm gonna be watching you. You make one breaking.

[Joanie]

You understand? Yes.

[Todd Miller]

Just see you keep your mouth shut.

[Joanie]

Hello? Hello.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Matter.

[Todd Miller]

Julie, you look pale.

[Joanie]

I'm all right.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

That was Crockett on the phone, wasn't it?

[Joanie]

Yes. Rancho He's. He's not going to let me get away. No matter where I go, I'll have the feeling he's watching me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Chances are he will be.

[Joanie]

It's no use running, is it?

[Todd Miller]

It's never worked for anybody.

[Joanie]

If you still want me to, I'll identify him.

[Todd Miller]

Oh, that's fine, Julie.

[Joanie]

And I'll tell you now. The man I saw in the sheriff's office is the one who held us up last night. He shot Johnny.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Come on, Sheriff. We're gonna pick up Red Crockett. We took Julie to the sheriff's office, then went to Crockett's room. When we discovered he wasn't there, we alerted all deputies for a systematic search of the town. We informed KTXA that the sheriff and I would be cruising the streets. We just doubled back a second time into the Mexican section when I received a radio call.

[Todd Miller]

KDXA to unit 10.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Unit 10 to KTXA. Go ahead, KTXA.

[Todd Miller]

Deputy Sheriff has been wounded in gunfight in Estanita Cafe by a man believed to be Ernest Crockett. Hey. The subject escaped after resisting arrest. Holy smoke.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

10 4. Unit 10. Clear KDXA.

[Commercial Announcer]

Austin.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Where's that cafe, Sheriff?

[Todd Miller]

About a block from the railroad tracks. If you swing left at this next corner, you'll come right to it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Hang on.

[Todd Miller]

He's probably taken off in that jalopy of his.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

He has. Won't take us long to catch up with him.

[Todd Miller]

Wonder which way he could have gone.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Wait a minute.

[Todd Miller]

What is it?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Just saw a man run into that alley up ahead. Does it lead anywhere?

[Todd Miller]

Down toward the freight yard. You can drive through to the tracks.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

He must be running pretty fast. There's no place he could have turned off.

[Todd Miller]

Yeah. This is as far as we can go in the car.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Todd Miller]

Hey, Jason. Saw him. Your lights picked him up where he ran toward that box car.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Let's go. Take it easy around this boxcar.

[Todd Miller]

There he goes, Jace. Climbing into that empty over there. Hold it, Crockett.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Give me that gun. Crockett.

[Todd Miller]

Get up.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It's only your arm.

[Joanie]

Hurts.

[Todd Miller]

Hurts bad.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Come on, Crockett. You were so anxious to have a train ride. Now I'm gonna see you get one all the way to Huntsville.

[Narrator]

In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard.

[Commercial Announcer]

Later today, you will find more great entertainment all lined up for you on this NBC station. Next, it's the big show with a star studded guest list and your unpredictable hostess. Tallulah Bankhead and Meredith Wilson will be on hand to direct the Big Show Orchestra and Chorus. Later tonight, be sure to hear the hilarious Phil Harris and Alice Fay show featuring the comedy antics of Frankie Remy, Julius Abruzio and Brother William. There's mirth and music with Phil and Alice and their delightful program. And remember too, the Theater Guild on the Air will bring you another entertaining dramatization of an exciting play co starring two of your favorite Broadway stars. Yes, Sunday is Fun Day on NBC because of the many fine shows sent your way to add to your listening pleasure. Later tonight, you'll want to hear Jack parr and the $64 question as Jack asks the questions and gives away the money. So remember, for fine entertainment all the rest of the day. Stay tuned to this station of the NBC Radio Network. Now for the conclusion of Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator]

And now, here are the results of the case you have just heard.

[Todd Miller]

Julie Thomas made a positive identification of Ernest Crockett and ballistics evidence proved that Crockett's gun had killed Johnny Gordon. Crockett was indicted and on July 9, 1948 was found guilty of murder with malice. At three minutes past midnight on September 15, 1949, Crockett died in the electric chair at Huntsville.

[Narrator]

Next week, Joel McCray in another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers, Joel McCray will soon be seen in San Francisco Story, a Warner Brothers release. The cast included Tony Barrett, Burt Holland, Betty Moran, Lou Krugman, Parley Bear and Michael Ann Berrett. Technical advisor was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charlie Israel and the program is produced and directed by Stacy Keach. Hal Gibney speaking.

[Commercial Announcer]

Next. Enjoy comedy, drama and music on the big show on NBC.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739. This episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Joanie]

Sam.