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"Grange Corner, Ind., July 8 - On July 6th, at or near the residence of Fred Shanks, occurred one of the most horrible events that has ever occurred in Parke County. The event referred to is one of suicide or cold-bloodied murder. On the day named the family became involved in a quarrel as a result of intimacy, between their daughter Clara (one who has always been respected) and a nearest neighbor, Daniel Keller. This intimacy has prevailed for some time, but was unknown to the parents until a short time before her death. As soon as the news was made known to her parents the fatal trouble began. As they sat down to their last dinner together scarcely none could eat. The poor girl ate but a few bites, and arose form the table, never to be seen alive by any member of the family. After an hour's absence the family became alarmed, and made a search for her, but all in vain. They were informed by Miss Keller and Miss Cox that she was seen by them going east about one hour before, bare-headed and bare-footed. A search was made for her until dark, in the woods, along the road, and every place, but no trace of her could be found. On the day following, her brother went to the falls of Wolf Creek, about three quarters of a mile away, and while hunting for her body in the water, found, to his utmost horror, her dead body. Mr. Shanks returned home and picked up a repeating shotgun and went to Keller's house and called him out. Keller stepped to one side of the door, when Shanks raised his gun and fired, but missed Keller, as he darted to one side and rushed for the door. He was kept at bay by Shanks until some neighbors came, and then Keller made his escape. Hundreds of people gathered, and quiet a number of newspapermen were present. A few scars were found on her face and head. The coroner rendered a verdict of suicide, as no sufficient evidence of murder could be obtained. Interment will probably take place today at the Zackmire cemetery.

Tribune 7-11-1895

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