Austin Statesman, Monday, December 6, 1943 

ELGIN SHOTGUN DEATH CALLED ACCIDENTAL 
 

ELGIN, Dec. 6 --Death of Barney Culp, 43 year-old Elgin native, who was
found shot to death one mile south of here on State Highway 95 shortly after
3 p.m. Sunday was due to "an accident by gunshot wound," M.A. Burleson, justice
of the peace said in a coroner's verdict Monday. 
A shotgun charge had accidentally entered his chest as Culp had gone bird
hunting and had a bird dog tied in the rear of his car. Circumstances of
Culp's death were investigated by three highway patrolmen and a Texas Ranger,
before Justice Burleson entered his verdict. 
 

Culp was discovered by J. H. Ray, civilian employee at Camp Swift. Elgin
authorities were notified and an ambulance was called. Culp was dead when
the ambulance arrived. 
 

Culp recently purchased a farm near here after his discharge from the army. 
Funeral services had not been announced Monday morning. 
Surviving are his father, Amos C. Culp, three brothers, L.C. Culp of Manor,
Theo Culp of McDade and Sid Culp of San Antonio; and two sisters, Mrs. C.E.
Curtis and Mrs. Bud Rawlins, both of Smithville.