In the small town of Skidmore, Missouri, a single event on July 10, 1981, dramatically shifted the community’s trajectory. The murder of Ken “Rex” McElroy, a notorious town bully, remains one of America’s most bewildering mysteries, not only because of the identity of the shooter—who remains unknown—but because of the collective silence that followed. This article explores the events leading up to McElroy’s death and the chilling aftermath that continues to haunt Skidmore.
Background of Rex McElroy
Rex McElroy was known throughout Nodaway County for his intimidating presence. Over the course of several years, McElroy was accused of numerous felonies, including assault, theft, arson, and child molestation. However, he consistently escaped conviction, thanks in large part to his lawyer’s skills and his own intimidating tactics towards witnesses.
The Incident at the Grocery Store
The tensions reached a boiling point following an incident at a local grocery store owned by Ernest “Bo” Bowenkamp and his wife. McElroy’s aggressive behavior escalated into violence when he shot and seriously wounded Bowenkamp following a confrontation. Charged with attempted murder, McElroy was convicted but freed on bail pending his appeal.
The Day of the Murder
On the day of his murder, McElroy was in town with his wife, Trena McElroy, attending court hearings. Despite the protective presence of local law enforcement, a group of citizens convened at the local D&G Tavern. The atmosphere was charged, and the townspeople’s frustration was palpable. After the hearings, McElroy was seen at the bar. He eventually left with his wife and got into his pickup truck.
The Shooting
What happened next is a matter of public record yet shrouded in mystery. As McElroy sat in his truck, he was shot multiple times in broad daylight and in view of multiple witnesses. The shooter, or shooters, were never identified. In a shocking turn of events, the townspeople present at the scene did not see who fired the shots—or claimed as much. This collective silence speaks volumes about the town’s desperation to rid themselves of McElroy’s reign of terror.
Aftermath and Legacy
The murder of Rex McElroy has never been solved. The lack of witnesses willing to come forward resulted in no charges being filed. The case has sparked numerous discussions on vigilante justice and the power dynamics in small communities. It has also led to various cultural depictions, highlighting the complexities of law, order, and justice in rural America.
The murder of Ken “Rex” McElroy remains a defining moment for Skidmore, Missouri. It is a story of a community pushed to the brink and the lengths to which it went to regain peace. The legacy of that day continues to provoke questions about justice and communal responsibility.