John Cousar In Charlotte to Face Charge of Murdering Andrew Straight, Oct. 8, 1905

Chance Remark Caused Arrest. . . Negro Brought Here for Murder of A.S. Straight in 1905

Washington, Aug. 13—John Cousar was taken to Charlotte, N.C., today by Deputy Sheriff Hunter to face charges in connection with the murder in that city 16 years ago of Andrew S. Straight. Cousar had been taken in custody by the Washington police on a charge of assault preferred by his wife, released on bond, and was re-arrested on a chance remark made by his wife.

When arraigned, the police said Cousar threatened to kill his wife, and she replied, “You have killed one person already.” Investigation caused the police to hold the negro for the Charlotte officers.

Andrew S. Straight, according to information sent the Washington police, was murdered on October 8, 1905, by three men, and the grand jury returned indictments against John Cousar, 15, his brother, Will Cousar, 18, and John Beattie, 20.

Cousar is also known as Saddler and Parks, the police said.

From The Charlotte News, Aug. 13, 1921