Benjamin Martin
Kentucky Post, Wednesday, 11 July 1934, page 1
SHOOTING-Continuing his investigation of the fatal shooting of Benjamin Martin, 35, ex-convict and alleged killer, 411 Isabella st. Newport by Jeff Purtee, 29, of 330 W Sixth st. Newport, early yesterday at 11th and York streets, Dr. August Helmbold, Campbell co. coroner was seeking today three eye witnesses of the duel.
Dr. Helmbold said he has information that the duel was witnessed by three men, but he and police have been unable to ascertain their identity. Martin, a paroled convict from Frankfort penitentiary, where he served a term for his alleged connection with a Newport murder eight years ago, was struck by four bullets and died clutching his own weapon, from which he had fired three shots at Purtee.
Purtee, who was surrendered to police a short time after the duel by his attorney, Daniel W Davies, claims he fired in self-defense after Martin had fired at him and missed. The tow duelists had been friends and the shooting resulted from an argument over Purtee's sister. Purtee is held in Newport jail without bond on a murder charge. He is to be given a preliminary hearing Tuesday before Judge William C Buten in Campbell County Court.