Simeon Kent Shoots His Brother Seth

The Williamston Tragedy

Seth Kent, who was shot by his brother Simeon Wednesday evening, at Williamston, is still alive, and as the gun was loaded with small birdshot the doctors have some hope of his recovery. When questioned about the matter, Simeon said:

“I have done something; I don’t know just what.”

He would say nothing more. Simeon and Seth Kent have lived in the township of Wheatfield for many years, owning adjoining farms. In former years they engaged in horse dealing, and had a large acquaintance. Seth is over six feet tall and tips the scale at 225 pounds. His brother Simeon is smaller, but both are powerful men, and although not quarrelsome, were always exact in demanding their rights as they saw them, and no one cared to dispute with them. A few years ago they both gave up their outside business, confining themselves to their farms. Seth has a fine farm, with excellent outbuildings. Simeon has not prospered so well. He had trouble with his wife, and left her. Seth took sides with the wife, and this has caused trouble.

Both brothers were in Mason, Wednesday. Seth was playing cards when Simeon came in and stood around taunting him. Seth said that his brother had been drinking, so he got out of the game and went away. Simeon followed, threatening to shoot him. Seth hitched up his horse and drove homeward. Simeon followed, passed him on the road, and got a gun at his son’s house. When Seth passed, Simeon followed and shot him in the back. As Seth turned, the second charge struck him in the head.

He says that if he recovers he will make no complaint. Mrs. Moore, sister of the two men, says that Simeon was insanely jealous of Seth over the former’s wife.