100 years ago in Newport: Capt. Cusick testifies at his murder trial

From our archives, 100 years ago

Capt. Joseph Cusick testified at his own murder trial in Newport, Washington.

Cusick was on trial for the shooting death of Harry Kilburn on a dark night on the streets of Cusick, Washington – the town Cusick had founded.

Cusick testified that he had gotten into a noisy altercation with Kilburn at the Quist Pool Hall. Later, Cusick went out to check on the condition of the schoolhouse water tap. He was outside checking on things when he lit a match to locate the sidewalk. A voice from the dark said, “Is that you, Joe?”

Cusick answered yes and Kilburn cursed and said, “I’ve got you now.” He jumped Cusick and hit him on the head.

Cusick pulled a revolver and they both scuffled for it on the ground. Cusick said the gun discharged while they were fighting for it, and a bullet struck and killed Kilburn. After that, Cusick said he yelled for help and then ran to town and gave himself up.

Kilburn was described as a former professional prizefighter in England and Australia who habitually went armed “with a heavy slingshot.”