Ken McElroy

Ken McElroy (1934–1981), also known as Kenneth Rex McElroy, was an American criminal from Skidmore, Missouri, who became widely known as the town’s bully.

Ken McElroy (1934–1981), also known as Kenneth Rex McElroy, was an American criminal from Skidmore, Missouri, who became widely known as the town’s bully. He was accused of numerous offenses over many years, and his unsolved shooting death in 1981 drew international attention. No one has been charged in connection with his killing as of 2026.

Early life and criminal accusations

Ken McElroy was born in 1934 and later lived in Skidmore, Missouri. Sources describe a long history of accusations involving violent and property crimes, which contributed to his notoriety in the town.

Legal troubles

Available sources state that McElroy faced repeated criminal allegations over the years and was convicted in at least one assault case. He remained a controversial figure in local accounts because many accusations did not result in a lasting prison sentence.

Death in Skidmore

McElroy was shot and killed on July 10, 1981, outside a bar in Skidmore, reportedly in front of numerous witnesses. The case became notable because no one identified the gunman publicly and the killing remained unsolved.

Legacy

McElroy’s death became a widely discussed example of vigilante violence and small-town silence. The case has continued to attract media coverage because of the large number of witnesses and the lack of charges.