Circumstances

In early October 1910, devastating forest fires swept through parts of Northern Minnesota and Northwestern Ontario, including communities along the Rainy River. Several towns and villages were destroyed, among them Beaudette and Spooner, Minnesota—situated just across the river from Rainy River, Ontario. As the fires displaced residents on both sides of the border, many sought refuge in the town of Rainy River, which itself remained under threat from the flames. The sudden influx of people placed immense strain on the small town, prompting the engagement of several constables to help maintain order. One of those constables was Wilford Fairles.

During the night of October 8–9, 1910, Constable Fairles was patrolling Fifth Street in Rainy River when he was attacked by unknown assailants. He was shot once, severely beaten, and left in a ditch. Discovered the next morning, he was rushed for medical treatment and later transferred to the General Hospital in Winnipeg, where he remained until his passing on December 21, 1910.

Postscript

Constable Fairles was 27 years old and originally from the London, Ontario area. Before joining the police force, he had worked for the Canadian Northern Railway. He was unmarried and was survived by his parents in St. Catharines, a brother in London, and three sisters. He is buried at Elmwood Cemetery in Winnipeg.