NOTEBOOK SAVES HIS LIFE.
Frank Riddle's Bullet Strikes It
When He Shoots at J. C. Riddle.
A small leather notebook probably saved the life of James C. Riddle, a saloonkeeper at 212 Independence avenue, last night. Frank Hedrick, a former saloonkeeper, shot at close range at Riddle at the saloon at 7 o'clock, declaring that he intended to kill him. The bullett, 38-caliber, struck in the notebook, which was in his right vest pocket, and glanced, making only a slight flesh wound on Riddle's breast.
Jealousy is given as the cause of the shooting. Hedrick formerly owned a saloon at 204 Independence avenue, and when Riddle started a similar business near him and made a success, Hedrick's business was said to have fallen off to a certain extent. About a year ago Hedrick's licenses for that, and also a saloon operated by him at 501 East Sixth street, were revoked because Hedrick sold liquor on Sunday. It is claimed that Hedrick then became jealous of Riddle. Several times Hedrick tried to make trouble for riddle, and last night was the second time he attempted to kill him.
Two weeks ago Saturday night, Hedrick went into the hall next to Riddle's saloon after closing hours and asked Riddle to sell him a drink, which the latter refused to do. With the refusal, Hedrick drew a knife and attempted to stab Riddle, although he only managed to cut a long gash in Riddle's coat. The latter then warned him not to come in the saloon again. Last night Hedrick went into the saloon and asked Riddle if he would sell him a drink. Riddle answered, "no," and Hedrick drew a revolver and, saying, "I'm going to kill you," shot at his breast.
Patrolmen Harry Arthur and T. D. Shackelford heard of the shooting and hurried to the saloon, but Hedrick had escaped.
Officers are of the belief that Hedrick has brooded over his business troubles until his mind has become deranged. For some time past he has been a vinegar peddler.
