From: RAY, JAMES E.
To: EASTLAND, SEN.
Document date: 1969-03-14 00:00:00
Document type: PAPER, TEXTUAL DOCUMENT

# DOCID-32989731

## Page 1

File #:

Released under the John F. Kennedy

assassination Records Collection Act ol

1992(44 USC 2107 Note]. Case#:NW

50994 Date: 11-01-2021

Best ava-able image

62-117290

Serial Scope:

EBF-1103

NW 65994 DõcId:32989731

Page

---

## Page 2

REGISTRATION CARD

NOTICE TO GUESTS: — This property la

atrately oward ond mannoeren

aserves iabl to setusa servin lo anyono, and will dol be res:asíbla lor anci

donta de lajury to questa or los tons ol

moneY, somally or valuablus al ant kund

RENTAL PAYABLE IN ADVANCE

Mane Ere S Stact

r2608 Highed die

REPRESENTING_

.

134

Đ:41 3 8228

CAR LICENSE

-

Datario it, Pilara

STATE

MAKE OF CAR -

REMARKS

44-38868

«LABORATORY

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 2

THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT

THANK YOU

KOOM

RATE

DATE

AMT. PAIO

RECEIVED PROM

Vic Duprall's Now Rebel MOTOR HOTEL

PHONE FASTBAI

3A06 LAMAR AVE.

MEMPHIS. TENN.

---

## Page 3

XB 44-1987

REVOLVER FOUND IN POSSESSION OF

JAMES EARL, RAY MILER ARRESTRO

JUNE 8, 2968, IN LONDON, ENGLAND

When JAMES EARL RAY MAR apprehended by embers

of Men Scotland Yard on June 8, 1968, In Londos, Englaad,

ho had in his possession a

"38 calibor "Liberty Chief"

rEVOlVOI ManUACtaTed by MIOKU ILIeRINS MANUIRCTUrING

number 715.

'Tha NatIonal POlleo AgenCyiOl: Japan war Ioquested

to doteralno to whon this revolver vas shippod by the

sanufacturer, and the following lotter was forthcoming

Iron that agency:

ALL INFORHATION CONTAINED

IERCIN IS UNCLASSINIEI

DATE 2/20lS6

40

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 3

i1409

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## Page 4

Xx 14-1987

Unod Goes, 118 Estuards DrIVO, Mableton, GoOrzia, on

October 3, 1966, under Involco Ro. 13909.

had been sold by him on Decombex 3, 1988, I0x $50.00 to

VALTIR BI BPAIN, 2904-42od Aveno, Blralagbas, Alabasa.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 4

3891

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## Page 5

NATIONAL. POLICE AGENCY

%.%-Chomi, Hasumigascki

Chiyunis ku.

tokyo

Jilletsa

"S-N°13/ 2'2.9/68"

Mir. Roderick V. Frechtl, Jr.

Legal Attache

American Embassy

Tokyo

"'"

INTERPOL

NATIONAL CENTRAL BUREAU

Telcisaphic rodress:

"INTERPOLJAPAN TOKYO"

TUsiXO, June 10, 1068.

Re: Inforastion about a pistol

"Liberty-Chief" Ho. 715

'Dear Sir;

in reply to your telephone requeat nade tlus soming

concerning the cationed natter, we wish to infora you as follows:

1. Destinacion of this weapon's shipment:

This pistol in question was shipped fros the nanufacturing

company given below on August 3, 1906, and was cloured by our

Customs' inspection on August 19, 1966 and was Loaded on the

MILVANITRU" at "SUl-"OKT" in lyogo Prefecture for shigest to:

Name of a conpany : LINENTY NUIS CORPORITION.

Address: F.O, BOi, 306, MONTiONS, CALIFUENIA, U.S.À.

2. Iteras for your reference:

The nine of this wearon's manufacturing company is "MUltINI

KÁJOHA, MROSO SEISARUSIO" (tranglated in laglish: Millise

MUNULACTURING CLINAY LIN.).

to you.

Trusting the above infomation is of sone assistance

Yours sincerely,

NW-65994-Đocld:92989731-Page-5

53°

J. Sode

(YUSHILTO SODE)

Chicf

: Grimizal Rescarch & Statistics Seeta 3635

al trizectication Burcal'.

---

## Page 6

+0-302 1 Ror-4-55-86)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

June 20, 1968

Birminghan, AEb.Ra, PAlled the Podovenue North,

Sometime 1n December, 1965, SPAIN went to Atlanta,

Georgia, with his father, WALTER LEON SPAIN, so his lather

"could attempt to obtain employmens.

WALTER E. SPAIN saw an advertisement in a newspaper for a

. 38 caliber Liberty snub-nose revolver, which was being

nie rather, went to, a deal and bout the a Yea

believed to be sapleton, Georgia.

SPAIN returned it to his residence in Birmingham, Alabana.

In the Spring of 1967, SPAIN gave the gun to his

father in partial payment of a debt he owed to his father.

SPAIN waS

later told by his father that he had sold the

gun after placing a want ad for 1t in a Birmingham newspaper.

SPAIN was not present when his father sold the gun and

therefore did not see the purchaser.

On

6/11/68 Birmingham, Alabama

SA ROBERT M. BARRETT and

SA WILLIAM A. SAUCIER / RMB:hS8

_Filo#.

BH 44-1740

HS 44-1987

bym.coa

52

_Dolo dictaled.

6/14/68

Thas dosumans confolne nailhor recommendollone nor conelusions ol tha 881, l0 la tha property of the F8l Ond le looned to your agency:

Hand lle consente oro nollo bo distesbulad ouialdo your ogancy.

3596

NW 65994- Docld:32969731-Page-6-

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## Page 7

. 0.302-Rov. 4

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

June 20, 1968

VALTER LEON SPAIN, #3 Glen Iris Parkway, Birmingbam,

Alabana, furnished the following:

PA the Spring of 1967, SPAIN'S SOn, WALTER E. SPAIN,

gave Mr. SPAIN a .38 caliber Liberty snub-nose revolver.

which his son had purchased in late 1966 or early 1967 fror

•a gun dealer near Atlanta, Georgia.

His son owed Mr. SPAIN

some money and the gun was a partial payment of this debt.

In the Fall of 1967, after having been hospitalized

n'1n August, 1967, at Huntsville, Alabama, for an 1llness and

:. being in need of money to pay bills, Mr. SPAIN sold many

personal items by means of placing want ads for these itens

in the "Birzingham News." Among the itens sold was the .38

caliber Liberty snub-nose revolver.

Mr. SPAIN recalled he

placed an ad for this gun in a Sunday paper, and that same

Sunday he received a call fron a man who asked about the gus,

the price, and the directions to get to SPAIN's residence.

The caller said he was in the western section of Birmirghan.

About an hour after this call, and while SPAIN's wife and

daughter were at church, a man came to the front door and

said he had called about the gun. He looked at the gun,

stated ne nad been Looking for a gun of the same type,

when told again that the price was $65.00, he gave SPAlA

two twenty dollar bills, two ten dollar bills, and a Ilve

dollar bill, after saying he would take it.

gave the man a receipt for the money, nor did he record his

same or see any identification of the man, and he did not

obtain any information as to his nave.

the gun in his hand. SPAIN furnished neither ammunition sor

any papers for the gun.

When the man first arrived, SPAIN observed be had

parked sis' car, described by sPaiN only as a late model

white or light-colored, on the street in front of SPAIN'

house,

a distarce of about 150 feet.

SPAIN did not pay

any further attention to the car.

SPAIN did recall the

buyer saying he lived in the western section of Birmingham,

but-ho-did-sat-nastias-aayspeciticaddress.ar.enplayment

On

6/11/68

_o1.

Birmingham, Alabana

SA ROBERT M.

BARRETT and

SA YILLIAM A. SAUCIER / RNB:hSS

__Fllo#.

33

BH 44-1740

ME 44-1987

by-

_Dato dictaled

6/14/68

Thas dosument conloins arither racommandalions nor conclusions of the FBl,ll la tha properly al the FBl and ls looned do your ogansy;

VW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page go outbe your agony.

3837

---

## Page 8

0.308: Ror. A s0f.,

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

Juse 20, 1968

All Sunday issues of "The Birmingham News'"for

• was placed by WALTER LEON SPAIN, that being in the October 1,

1968, 158ue.

On.

6/11/68

_o Birmingham, Alabama

SA ROBERT M. BARRETT and

SA MILLIAM A. SAUCIER / RMB:hss

BH 44-1740

_Fllo #_

ME 44-1987

by-

— Dato dictoled

6/14/68

Ia, dosumane sonedins neither pacommandatione nor conclusions of the FBS. 8 de the proporly of the fal and lo loaned to rour aganses

11 and its conlonse ora nollo bo distributod outaldo your agency,

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 8

3999

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## Page 9

BH 44-1740

The buyer sald he wanted the gun to keep around his house.

Mr. SPAIN described the buyer ag a white male, about forty

to.forty-flve years of ago, 5'8" or 5'9" tall, 170 to 175

pounds, dark bair slightly graying at the temples, with a

local (Alabana) accent.

The man was wearing a sport shirt

and slacks, colors unrecalled, and he did not have glasses.

Mr. SPAIN waS shown Live different photographs

Of JALES EARL, RAY, and he chose one which had been taken in

California during January or February, 1968, as "resembling

the man" who bought the revolver; however, Mr. SPAIN would

not make a definite identification of the photograph of RAY

as the buyer.

SPAIN recalled he was contacted by FBI Agents

on April?, 1968, and shown an artist's conception of an

Individual

the FBI was attempting to locate.

At that time,

he advised Agents the drawing reminded him of someone he may

have seen previously, but was unable to lurnish any other

identifying information. After viewing the photographs of

JAMES EARL RAY and being questioned about the sale of the

revolver, SPAIN said he was now able to connect the sale

of the revolver with the drawing in that the person depicted

In the drawing reminded SPAIN of the person to whon he had

sold the revolver.

54

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 9

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## Page 10

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

}

Dolo

6: 01 1/,15/63

JILLITE DELTON GARIER,

107 ~ 11th Streot, 115.,

Atlanta,

Goorgia, vas contaciod at 10:37 P.1J., April 14,

1953, at which tiro lo durniazad tha 10llozIzg Infonation:

Ghias nado availablo a rccord toois maintained

by hin concarairy parsons tho ront rooss at both 10i arà 113 -

Lath stieet, hoo, rooting houses obaraica by hin on a 1oasa

basis.

A rovion of this record book. lailod to cisclose any

registration In th sara GALf. it should ba noted this book

contairs only a rocord oi roozars for tho pariod baghunlig

January 1,1958.

Upon being questioned concorning individuals lenülry

at thoso addrcases tho digaù hava chechod cut pitor to tis

couplotion oi the rarion los ta they had paid, on obiais sho

cx aay reason Light cot ko recordod 11 this tocord koois,

Unknony, Chit.

ICO3 11 EX 113 - 2661 265039,

O3 5:00 BY G00

Lad Bach Cacting 11 ≤x0äi

TOù CAN ho HOld THE He: 2400219, 86 107 - 19

wilch rooa too 1 Carld coo2 Cia that

С СІЙД-ССГіО ІСРО ВІіо (СО ОВ ІСДІВЕІҐіЇО: ПОі

rocallca), ard that too cai vas poscloly & 1052 0s 1033 10401.

Gius recontad this mraazeusat and paid Caliar whilo

outsido tha cralling and la balioyca lo rocatuca a 510 vill

ard a ₫l bill la darent. The cost Of t9 2002 195 410.50

Purity the convercaiics,

Cale iricaded to man a solace and ostginally cano 2202. 1230

Carol1232."

Cla Ch 205 101 & Choler

ciao on tho ford Locauto La lad Leon voiging 11 Erotiat titts.

47

On.

1/11,15/58, Atlanta, Coorgir

Atlanta 14-2358

_Flle *

She Goil the Cany 221

ICETA L. BLIS

F9:?00

4/10/83

_Date dictated

This documens consins neithor recommentarons nos conclusions of the FBl ll it the property of the $3l and is boaned 1o, youe of 215

in and is consents are nolla be distribured ovisido your agency,

ALL INFORMACION CONTAINED

HEREIN AN UNCLACSIFIED

i NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 10 •

DATE 212018le BYSpanaembe

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## Page 11

AT 44-2386

2

At this point GiriER indicated that possibly the 'tag' on the

Ford nas a Tennessee tag, but he tas not at all certain of

this.

GArith described CAliSas being a thite nale, 32 - 35

years of age, 51 11", 190 pounds, dars brorn or black hair

porn in a brush cut, blue eyes, medium "outdoor" corplexion

and having a southern accent.

le noted no distinguishing

Icatures or characteristics and had no recollection of any.

ring or other jewelry.

His dress was casual, specifically

described as a shirt and slazis.

GiLe noved into noos "5 at 107 - leth Stract, M.E.,

There he reacined until Curday, April 7, 1953.

On this day

Calt mes noved to loon #6 at 113 - l4ch

Street, 1.E..

On this

occasion, Giams observed Gist riove his possessions una-noted

that h3

had no luggage and ail of his possessions

Mere cacher

Ол Догід В, 1933,

IDERSON, an employee

Who 13 a1no caployod by this hocel. GuineA aSSigned ANDERSON

Inaividual he calloved to be Ci

did loanson iscase tileraly.

and ADanson chae to chrails toon at 107 - 11th street, 1i.I.,

at wiich tine cilt auvised chiina that both he and mouaso

mere chaching out.

le said both ten aspearcd to have keen

driniing.

Girld asivised he has

that soldeis vere recriving a higher howly nage theic. For this

reason, he haù dociècd to go to michigan to sces vork.

AiDarSOn,

Nho Ma5 & MOte! стодее, по ve дог со віслідею

Gallan recalled he ratunded apronatoly si? io midoigoi, tho

hod paid tro backs in Luvance on registering on docal i.

CALT

did noi ast 1or a relund, although ho vas paiu tacough spril 11,.

but did receive the roturn of his 8:50 deposit for the ley.

426

_ NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 11

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## Page 12

AT 44-2386

Thereafter, GaluR accompanied GALT and ANDERSON tO ANDERSOR'S

room where he secured the room keys Iron both chlt and midenson.

at this time ho noted several beer bottles in the, roca and

presuned Guy and sidolson nau been Grim:ing togethex.

GARIIER

did not actually observe the departure of cALt and aiderson,

but noted both were gone on the norning of April 10, 1968, as

sas the previously-described bloel: Ford auto.

GipiR made available the registration for HAROLD G.

AIDERSON. This registration doas not reflect an address for

haarson, but andicates that nis father is &. I. Aidarison,

that he almays zitcants to obtain the neue and address for 2

next of kin for his rooseis.

01 LAYOLD GOES provIded the 20110w8ng physical description

Pace

White

Sex

Hale

Age

0

Height

5° 9"1

Height

155 - 160 pounds

Halr

Light broin, parted on side

Complexion

Liedit

Byes

Unknosn

DiSTingUIShiNg

Characteristics

Noïe noted

Dress

Casual, shirt and slackss

Chriss identified other tenants tho resided at

123 - 11th Street, M.L., during the sane period thai GALt

was a rooner there.

GarteR said he was unablo to recall Chla's first

nare, but sayised he had ouserved mail on the hall table oi

the rooning house aù 113 - leti Sticei, 11.L., Weich nail vas

49

127

*NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 12

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## Page 13

AT 14-2336

addressed to GALI. At this point, CARTER accompanied the

interviering Agents to 113 - 14th

street, Moro, there it was

observed that there were tho lottors and a paclago on the hall

table addressed to ERIC S. or E. CALI.

The pacliage rias

postzachica k/1/68, and the letters vere postnarked 4/9:and

4/19/08• ChrueR advised his sister, POBBIE LEE CRIER, 2

school teacher woo resides in the Dixieland Apartuents, •

1295 Donnolly Avenue, s.l., Atlanta, had visited hin on

either friday or Saturiay nigot, April 12 or 13, 1903. At

this tire his sister had thwibed through the sail on the

table at the 113 - 14th Street nadress and upon noticing tho

mail addrossed to ERIC GALI, she corenced to GAPER that

this was the same nema as the individual nao, according to

LUXER KIG, 32.

Chrish stated that he did not feel there sas

any linolihoo that the Cale who hed ctayed at 113 - lth Sireet,

1i.üo, vas identical nich this suspoct, stating uany pooplo

have

the same naS.

canch stated that he had reither seen nor keard of

CAll belci to baril o, 2930, and that during call's siey at

his roozing kouse la son nothing to indicate tiat CAlt hai

Roy ConneCtIch Min Thy OrAcr Chant at thiS aLGIeSS priOr-to

his arrival those.

Gren was raked shother ba had any

chalanation for the dect that Call had sail postrarked 1/1/63

adoreosed to him at 113 - 14üh Street, M."., and according

to GARaB, CAll did not arrivo at this locacion until April 5,.

1939. GALI Sold he vas unable to explain this, and had no

Idea hor this could cacur.

Garian vas also questioned concerning the possibility

that cAlt or any other rochars had left naicrial diti him in

storage or for ericheeping. He asswed that this vas not

50. He did roport that loors fif and #3 at 113 - 11th Sireet,

11.3o, kath of shich it nas noted nore lasioned ith hasps

₴до дойосія, тего сроказе хостЕ.

only linans and po3sib1g a den itons of no value loit behina

FERRE

by roogers.

50

428

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 13

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## Page 14

AT 12-2386

With regard to Room #5 at 107 - 14th Street,

Nobo, GArieR said that this joon had not bacoccupied by

anyone siuce CALT yas transferred fion this room on April 7,

he noted, howaver, that the cadd, parry his lausfix

or her helper, identity unknown, would have changed the sheets

Tista regara/to Roon #6 at 113 - 14th Street, 11.5.;

this roon renained vacant until April. 13, 1953, when it was

Tented to DiD o bolsh, 12 Andover Drive, Syossett, Her

foris.

ne described O'editely 25 a very young ban tho is also

employed at the libert pick lotel and tho sas brougat to the

rocting house by they c. vorce.

Es said he does not balieve

this roon ves nade up prior to les boing rented to o'pula,

but advised he had given O'Donell clean sheats so thai he

Even oldes

could change the linens himsell.

cahilot said he did not knot of any asscciation

between Call aud otici dcencrs at elther of the roosing

houses cicani the ssscciation i th ITOLD G. kib3r30:, 25

previously descriled.

In erplanation for the failure of the name "CALI"

to appear on tie roosing house records, chrun said thei ho

can only calain this by saying me recelvel payuani sor the

and had inadveriently failcd to record the name when he rciurned

to his I003.

Tie incruiN of CARaTSR concluded at 1:38 lI,

Apx1l 15, 1958.

:

.51

42:

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 14

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## Page 15

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dole

1/16/68

read such concerning this and he stated he had read quite

a bit in the raaspapors and seas a lot on tolevision.

Garver then indicated that ho bnew this was why ye were

asking about GILT.

or 1/34,15/00 Atlanta, Georela

_Fle# Atlanta 11-2326

-Dole dictoted_ 4/1G/68

Ine dosusene contons neister recommendatons nor conslusiors of ine f81, 19 is tha properly of die 581 and is losined to your ogarcy:

" on! die conrenis ore norto te distribulad outside your ogersy.

C: 430

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 15

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## Page 16

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIC

Dorlpr1l 1E, 1963

1

contacted the Atlanta Clice Of tha"Toderal Bureau of

Investigation at suich tine he proziced the 10110:123

InfOrnatiOn:

Since providing the inforzation concerring MIC

CAlt during a personal intervien by agents, he has recheckod

nis recorda and ton belleros that the iadividua1 phon he

•Inen as chir actually tas ragisicied di the rooning house

under ise nane of tinhili lis, Route 1; Castoria,

lorth

Carolina.

CiRi33 said lis records do not reflect the toca

nusder to thica lus nas assigred but rored inat the recoris

do shon LER arrived daril 5, 1533, and caid througa Abril 12,

1983.

Then renting the rosa, tais supplied tho nane iss

ELiXI ParIPzil, 1032 Taliz Sticat, iarrea, lachigan, as tie.

incivicial to la notifica in casa ci crergerzy.

ciaiaa said

231 1n1orat1ca Doviald Cwing ia Trios arteryiey 123

eccurade cacept tat he con icals cortain that TILLIAM IZº3

rOBISCTaTICh partalas to mac Cit.

Cia:. tas quesilocod as to hou he daiecuired inis

Lan's nase to ta cill naon tua regidurailon sas in the lase

03 Z73.

Calaa Gas toable to cruistectorily cholain tais

:Èo sog ent to fepio tici he concludad tini 23s 5a3

ai tue LOira hOuJe Lich maE direCiOd tO ZIC Cige.

53

Or 1115/63 a 1trasta, Capszia

_File#_

litlanta 48-2335

shas docuriens contoins neisher recommendasions nor conciusions of the £58.1l as lhe properiy of due F9l ord is fooned la your efere»;

il and ils contenis are nol lo ba distribuled oussido your agency.

: 431

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 16

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## Page 17

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Doie 10r1l 16, 1958

In response to a telephopic request received

at 9:31 a.i. frOM JITLIE DELION CARIER, he was Inter-

viened in front of his restaurant located at 1052

Northside Drive, Horthwest, Atlanta, Georgia.

CAPIER opened tha conversation by stating

"Ige 1s not Galt.

He then made avallabie the registration

records for his rooming house. It was again noted these

•recoris do not reflect a registration in the name of GALt.

At the same tine noric S. Calt.

carieR produced an envelope bearing

the printed nare

circior said this name

was printed thereon by ChLf sinen GARER raguested his

full naue.

Ocher hand:ritten notat1013

thereon were,

according to circbs, propared by himself.

Girish stated that suuseguent to a prior

Intervio, he had been searching his records and hic

nenory and had non doterained that on sarch 24, I908, .

laus 1n ina evening, an Inuividual knocked on hi3

aparinont door, introduced himell as ix. Galt, 203

requesied a single roo..

Fo nes placed in Roon Husber 2, 113 14ch Strect,

Hortheast, Atlanta, Georgia, on noting thau the rooa res

small, Mas offcred an adjoining siorage roon in inich

to place his surplus belongings. At this point, GiLI

renalied ha vold ba ablo to uillize a desk in tre storage

roon for his television set.

GARUER did not sea cile unloza his ausonoojle

or bring his possessions into the rood. He naxi sau

CRET on March 31, 1950, at which time the rent nas due and

GAlE made tha scatcasne,

"I nay as vall pay you for another

• week."

This vas batricen 1:00 ana 2:30 p.u.

On Ancil 5, 1953, CAreth enterad the roon at

approxinataly 11:00 a.n. to change the Iinens. At this

tine, he lound e note on the bed uritten ena piece of

carabcara, beliced by fin to ne a lery stori vacichnes

mich suated in erreci "I've ma to 80 to birainghas.

Ive loft my tv set here and will try to rotura los 1t in

0n1if35/53 strante, Caoresa

_File # Atlanta 44-2335

S: R0233 L. Kais and

1, 4

Dale dictoled

11/25/55-

Ims dosumani contsins nither rocommandatons nor conetustene el the 581 ll lo tha proparty ol tha FBi ond 1s louned do 101 3 2"

il ond iss contenes ore nollo be distribuled ouiside your ogency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 17

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## Page 18

AT 44-2385

IRIS:bIC

about a weck."

He does not recall whether the note was

printed or sritten and destroyed it by throning 1t. in

the trash landiately.

• GARNER descrioed GALT as a shite sale, 33 to 35

years of age, upprosinately six leet tall, elcuser buila,

black hair, soin very short with possiuly a part

on the

Bide.

ahrizeR had previowly noted GiLt to be utilizing

Roon suncer 1, 107 14th Street, Hortheast,

33 this cutenoulle nas paried near wilen; at sinich tine

he 484.09 tormis generally 1f ho rcalled the make of car

end linirs adviaca hia 1t mos a late model luatani,

poselaly 19ú or 1957.

GRiliER estinated his toial contact with line

on both occasino ala nou arceed one-hall hour. lle statca

on both occacions chie vas noatly accused in a jerk zulu,

white 'shirt, and the. He characterized hia su looking

I1ke a preacher.

The Inconsistencies in the Infornation preslously.

furnishes by chait end ine foregolig sere thoroughly

discursed with min and he coula accradste do chly to

"being confused"

• ей he crioneouly собосео

the name thit ulth the roomer, manlin Lan, about whoa

he had furnished the informtion.

At this tire, ChiNER nade avaslable & three page

menorandus in his handuriting inich chionologically sots

forth his unsociation nich sir. The envelope previously

referred to, furnished by CAllER,

This note sas prepared by carita.

55

-: 433

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 18

---

## Page 19

'AT 44-2386

REK:DJC

:

GARNER stated he made this notation during his Initial

contact with GiLI, at which time he asked his usual

questions of nei rooners about their line of work.

said he inadvertently failed to record the Infornation

on the envelope in his permanent recoras.

GARDER added

that at the tide of renting the room, ne received a

$1.00 key deposit Iron GiLT and the key was left with

56

..: 439

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 19

---

## Page 20

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIY

Date_.

April 16, 1958

JILCITE DELTORT

GARIER nas interviened in tha

office of the Federas bureau of Investigation, 275 Reach-

tree straet; Northeast, Atlanta, Gaorgia, after voluntarily

accompanying SAs ROgER L. RAAS and HARRY L. ILD.IrOn his

place of business, 1052 Horthside Drive, Horthwest,

Atlanta, Georgia.

At this time, GrieR stated that he was

alare of the discrepancies in the inforsation furnished by

him but Insisted 1t sas due solely to the confusion shich.

existes in his mind In erroncously relating the name

Gall with his rooser, illullar os.

He stated he had no reason for telling the

Agents that he had no itens in his possession which be-

longed to Gale, linen, in fact, he las holding a television.

set, other tran the confusion previously referred to.

In deteraining the Individuals In each of the

observe Galt, he advisea thet au the time of ranting to

GALI, there lias no oüher occupant in this building.

He stated he had closed 233 24th street on

February 11, 1953; after the naignborhood hippies auteadied

to tale It over.

He canitted that ha had tho double rosis

vacant at the tine Gile agalled for & roon and that he

had previoruly ranted thase for the price of a single

rosa, cut cana shaasted on a single xost, so he decides

to open the ocher rooming house.

lia audittad 10 cost

hia more to do this than he lould receive initially in

reni, but that ha had been planning to open 1t, as tha

other house sab filling up.

5>

On

4/15/68

_01

Atlanta, Ceorgia

Milanta 44-2335

File*

by-

SA AC338 L. BES

_ Dale dicioled

1/25/55.

This document contains neithor recommendalons nor concisions of the Filall is the properly of the fel and is leondo lo youe oferay:

it ond its consenis ora nosso be distributed outside your agency.

: 435

BA 65994 Docld:32989/31 Page 20

---

## Page 21

AT 44-2385

RIK: DIC

CALT renained the sole occupant of this

building until April 1, 2908, at which time FRED C.

JONES was placed in Roon Munber. 1.

.. ..

In continuing to question GARNER as tó why he

had denied holding property for GALI, he finally aänitted

that it had been his polloy in the past to retain for

30 days possessions left benind by rooners, then to

clain them as his own, and it was his intention to do

this with the television set.

GARiER specifically denied that he had pre-

vIously kno:n Gili, thet GAll has been raferred to hin

by anyone, that he has acceptoù an extra amount of

money fion Gilt for any reason, or that he had any

kno:tuge concerning his present thercabouts.

GAiteR stated that ha nas born and raised in

He denied having any kno:leäge

of the John alren or other right ding organizatione,

stating he hed joincs only one organization which nans

he could not no: recall, bui described by hin as a

civic organization.

His relterated that li had always been his

Intention to cooperate uith the e3t and that he had,

In fact,

that morning diven the address and telephone

number of his rastaurant to a rocher, fr. BURGESS, where

he could be reached should GALe return for the tele-

vision set.

He stated he did this so he could

Inacdiately noüliy the FBI of CAll's returi.

58

436

-=

-NW 65994_Docld:32989731 Page 21

---

## Page 22

:

ADDITIONAL MATERIAL TO BE REFERRED TO

.. tes., l

Chicago Field Office File 44-1114-772

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 22

---

## Page 23

FBI. HASH DEA

--FEDERAL BUREAU " INVESTIGATION

V. S. DEPASTIL

OF JUSTICE

COMMUNICAT ON SECTION

MAR 1 3 1969

TELETYPE

761*

FBI MEMPHIS

• 1.

1705 PM. URGENT 3-13-69

ĐND

¿TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) ATIN: MR. AL ROSEN, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

¿GENERAL INVESTICATIVE DIVISION:

ATE:

cinematier cominator

*FROM MEMPHIS (44-1937)

Doesna

MURKIN

ASSASSINATION OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR

шат.

•Callahas

ВАт.

Conrad.

NT. Felt.

Mr. Gale.

Rost

Нт.

Sullivai

but. Tarel.

M. Ixorier_

T'ele. Pinosa

miss lies

neS

Mise

July.

'AI APPROXIMATELY THO FORTYFIVE PM, INTERVIEW WAS BEGUN WITH

JAMES EARL RAY BY. SAC, MEMPHIS AI TENNESSEE STATE PRISON. INTERVIEW

CONCLUDED AT APPROXIMATELY THREE THIRTYFIVE PM. RAY ON ENTERING

ROOM SAID, "YOU'RE THE GUY WHO TESTIFIED. I DON'T WANT TO TALX

TO YOU OR ANYBODY FROM THE FBI.""

RAY WAS ASKED TO SIT DOWN AND

WAS TOLD IT WAS POSSIBLE WE HAD THINGS WE COULD TALK ABOUI.. RAY

SAID, "I'M NOT GOING IO TALK ABOUT CASE AS I'VE BEEN MISGUOTED

•ENOUGH." HE WAS UNABLE TO POINT OUT ANY SPECIFICS WHERE FBI HAD

EVER MISQUOTED HIM. HE WAS ALSO TOLD FBI HAD NOT INTERVIEWED

HIM SO IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE FOR US TO, MISQUOTE. HIM. RAY INDICATED

HE BEITER GO BACK TO CELL AS SAC WAS ONLY TRYING TO TRICK HIM

INTO TALKING ABOUT CASE. HE WAS THEN BEANED OF HIS GUILTY

IN OPEN COUAT AND WAS ASXED IF HE INTERC 1 TO CHANGE 3

nn

ses

PLEA

1-5622

SAID NO.

18 MAR 17 1969

RAY THEN CRITICIZED HIS. ATTORNEY ART HANES, -T, E SAID "

THANES WAS NOT GOOD ATTOPNEY AS HE REFUSED TO INVESTIGATE CASEYER

SAC INTERJECTED THAT HIS ATTORNEY HAD HIRED INVESTIGAZORLI TO

So 17

END

56 MAR 2 1 1969

MR. DELOACH FOR THE DIRECTOR

94 Docid:

---

## Page 24

PAGE TWO

WHICH RAY REPLIED, "HE'S NO GOOD EITHER; AND HE ONLY BEGAN TO

INVESTIGATE A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE TRIAL." RAY STATED HANES REALLY

WASN I HIS ATTORNEY AS WILLIAM BRADFORD HUIE HAD HIRED HANED

-GO TO. LONDON TO ACT AS ATTORNEY FOR RAY, IN RETURN FOR SIORY

CONTRACIS

RAY WOULD NOT AMPLIFY ON CONTRACIS BUI DID STATE HE

HAD TIO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS IN CONTRACTS OUT.,

RAY SAID HE.

HADN'T RECEIVED ANY MONEY ON ANY OF THESE CONTRACTS YET. HE ALSO SAID

HE HAD CONTRACTED WITH PERCY FOREMAN. REGARDING POSSIBLE STORY.

ALSO SAID PART OF HIS CONTRACI WITH FOREMAN WAS THAT PAY WOULD :..

NOT EMBARRASS FOREMAN IN COURI. WHEN ASKED IF THAT IS WHY HE :

SAID NO MORE IN COURT WHEN HE ROSE TO MAKE COMMENT, RAY SAID KE."

WOULDN'T TALK'

ABOUT IT ANY MORE..-

HE THEN BECAME CRITICAL OF FOREMAN, SAYING HE WOULDN'T

INVESTISATE HIS. CASE EIDER. SAID THAI FOREMAN CAME TO HIM

VITH A NEGATIVE ATTITUDE, SAYING "YOUR BEST DEFENSE IS TO PLEAD

GUILTY OR YOU'LL GET THE DEATH SENTENCE." RAY INDICATED DIS-'

SATISFACTION WITH HIS PAST ATTORNEYS. HE SAID HE WAS TRYING TO

GET AN ATTORNEY IN GEORGIA

NOW. HE REFUSED TO INDENTIFY THIS

ATTORNEY..

(SAC HAD PREVIOUS DISCUSSION WITH WARDEN LAKE

RUSSELL AT PRISON AND WARDEN HAD ADVISED RAY HAD TOLD HIM HE

END 'PAGE TWO

---

## Page 25

PAGE THREE

WAS MAKING EFFORIS TO GET S.,B. STONER, AN ATTORNEY IN GEORGIA,

TO REPRESENT HIM. { S: B. STONER WELL KNOWN, FIGURE IN VARIOUS WHITE

HATE GROUPS IN GEORGIA.)

RAY ALSO SAID HE DIDN'I WANT IÓ TALK ANY MORE ABOUT

ANYTHING, AS HE FELT HIS ATTORNEY, WOULD BE ABLE TO REOPEN HIS

CASE, 'HE ALSO SAID NE HAD LETTER PREPARED TO SEND TO SENATOR...

EASTLAND AND THEN IN ABOUT THO OR THREE MONTHS HIS CASE WOULD BE

CLEARED UP: HE INDICATED HE MIGHT : THEN BE WILLING TO SIT DOWN

AND DISCUSS THE CASE FULLY•

ADDITIONAL SMALL TALK OCCURRED AND RAY BROUGHT UP FBI IV

SERIES. HE WONDERED WHY FBI ALWÄYS HAD TO LET THE CRIMINALS

#DRAW FIRST BEFORE THEY WERE SHOT. HE WAS TOLD THIS IS ONLY

CONSISTENT WITH THE FACIS, 'AS OUR WEAPONS ARE USED ONLY IN SELF

DEFENSE. HE EXPRESSED SOME SKEPTICISM., HE THEN ASKED IF FBI

THOUGHT HE WAS STUPID EHOUGH TO LEAVE HIS FINGERPRINTS IN, THE

AREA WHERE A PUBLIC FIGURE,WAS XILLED. HE WAS ASKED IF HE WAS " .,

TRYING. TO TELL SAC THAI SOMEONE PLANTED HIS PRINTS, AND IF SO

HIS STORY WAS GETTING THIN AND SAC WOULD LEAVE. HE THEN RAISED

SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT NOT EVER HAVING BEEN IDENTIFIED IN A

END PAGE THREE

---

## Page 26

PAGE FOUR

LINEUP AND WAS NOT SURE THAI ANYONE COULD IDENTIFY HIM. "HE THEN

'INDICATED HE HAD READ IN A CANADIAN PAPER THAT ONE CHARLIE

STEPHENS COUL>„PROBABLY,€

E IDENTIFY HIM AS HE THOUGHT

CHARLIE STEPHENS HAD A GOOD LOOK AT HIM IN ROOMING HOUSE.. HE DID

NOT. VANI, TO DISCUSS THIS FURTHER.

HE THEN FURTHER CLAIMED THAT NO ONE HAD IDENTIFIED HIM

WITLI A PHOTOGRAPH UNTIL HE MADE SOME PHOTOGRAPHS AVAILABLE ON .

THE WEST COAST. THE ABSURDITY OF THIS STATEMENT WAS POINTED OUT

TO KIM, AS HE KNEW THE STATE HAD SEVERAL WITNESSES WHO COULD

IDENTIFY HIM.

HE WAS ASKED IF HE DIDN'I WANI TO TALK ABOUT SOMETHING ELSE,

"SUCH AS HIS TRIP F3OM LOS ANGELES TO NEW ORLEANS. HE SAID NO,

THAT HE HAD MADE A MISTAXE GETTING MIXED UP WIIH STEIN. HE SAID

"STEIN WAS ONLY A "HIPPIE." HE WOULD NOT TALX FURTHER ABOUT STEIN.

OTHER YISCELLANEOUS MATTERS COVENED WITH RAY INDICATED HE

SAID HE NEVER RECEIVED A PROPERTY RECEIPI FROM BUTLER OF SCOTLAND

YARD,. WIEN ARRESTED-THERE, HE SAID THIS. RECEIPT MIGHT BE OF

VALUE AT SOME FUTURE DATE. HE REFUSED TO CLARIFY THIS.

RẠY WOULD NOT AT ANY TIME DISCUSS CONSPIRACY OR ANY ASPECIS

OF, IT." HE CONTINUOUSLY CLAIMED THIS WOULD BE MATTER FOR HIS

END PAGE FOUR

---

## Page 27

PAGE FIVE

ATTORNEY TO HANDLE AND POSSIBLY SENATOR EASTLAND'S COMMITTEE.

HE ALSO EXPRESSED DISLIKE FOR FORMER CLARK

GeNeRAL

PECAUSE OF HIS

STATZMEHTS BUI WOULD NOT CLARIFY WHAT STATEMENTS. HE DID, HOWEVER,

SAY, ADOUI CLARK THAI IF HE WAS SOFT ON CRIME AS THE NEWSPAPERS

SOMETIME REPORIED THIS WAS OKAY •

ẠT THIS TIME SAC ASKED RAY IF HE WOULD NOI LIKE TO MEET A

PAIR OF,

ASSOCIATES OF SAC, AGENTS JOE C. HESTER AND ROBERI, F. BOYLE.

RAY SAID HE DID NOI WAUT TO TALK TO FBI BECAUSE ALL THEY WANTED TO

DO WAS. TRICK HIM. "RAY AT CONCLUSION OF INTERVIEW SAID HE DID

NOT. WANT TO TALK TO ANY OTHER AGENTS AT THIS JIME.. HE WAS TOLD

THERE VERE TWO OTKER AGENIS WITH SAC. HE DID MEET THESE TWO AGENTS

JUST PRIOR TO BEING RETURNED IO HIS CELLO HIS PARTING COMMENT

WHEN GOING THROUGH CELL DOOR MAS, "TAKE A GOOD LOOK AS YOU MAY BE

LOOKING FOR ME AGAIN."

SAC TOLD RAY THAT HE WOULD RECONTACI HIM AGAIN TOMORROW

MORNING AND PERHAPS WE COULD AGAIN ENGAGE IN SMALL TALK. RAY

SAIE PAYDE I WILL MOI TALX WITH YOU AGAIN."

ARRANGEMENTS. WILL DE MADE TO SEEK SECOND INTERVIEW IN

•END PAGE FIVE:

---

## Page 28

PAGE SIX

RAY'S COMMENT ABOUT TAXING A GOOD LOOK WAS SPECIFICALLY

POINTED OUT TO THE OFFICERS' ON DUTY IN THE MAXIMUM SECURITY

SECTION AND IT WAS SUBSEQUENTLY POINTED OUT TO WARDEN RUSSELL.

IN ADDITION, Ill DISCUSSIONS VITH WARDEN RUSSELL, SAC REQUESTED •

THAT, VISIT OF FEI TO TENNESSZE STATE PENITENTIARY SHOULD' 3E HELD

CONFIDENTIAL., WARDEN INDICATED HE WOULD DO SO BUT. OF COURSE,

STORY WOULD STILL GET AROUND IN THE PRISON YARD.

FEND

•ERT.

FBI WASH DO

P

DOMR. ROSEN

---

## Page 29

D.J02 (Rov,1.15-688

1

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date.

4/11/68

At approximately 10:30 8.M. DONALD F. MOOD

was contacted at Aeronarine Supply Company, 5701 Airport

ROBERT E: TOOD, SR., WhO®

Birmingham, and advised that he is the son of

is the owner of the Aeromarine

Supply Company.

MOOD was discreetly. questioned con-

cerning the sale of a Remington callber 30, 06 rifle,

Berial number 461476, which Aeromarine had purchaser

from Mimbertey-Thomas in August, 1966.

DONALD F. WOOD

Immediately stated that he had heard the accounts of tha

assagsination of MARTIN LUTHER KING the previous day on

the radto and had immediately recalled selling a rifle,

as was described in the newspaper as the murder weapor,' to

an individual about a week before the murder.

Immediatoly searched for and found a sales invoice in his

records and indicated that on Baturday, March 30, 1968, b+

had sold this gun to an individual using the name HaRVa

LONMEYER.

After obtaining both copies of this sales

Invoico, Mr. MOOD was requested to accompany the inter.

he agreed to do. Mr. HOOD was transported to the

Mering Agent to the Biralnghan Otisce of the Tel, TrE

han Office of the FBI, where he furnished the folloriss

signed statement:

"Birmingham, Alabana

April 5, 1968

"I, DONALD F. HOOD, hereby make

this statement to Special Agent NEIL P. SHANARAN

mbo has Identified hinsell to me as a Spectal

Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

reside at 405 Lance Lane, Birmingham, Alabama and

subscribe to telephone number 836-4918.

I am

employed by my father, ROBERT E. HOOD, SR. at the

AeronarIne supply Company, 5701

Alrport Highway,

Birminghan, Ala, as a salesman.

ALL INVENTION CONTAINED

JEROIN, IS UNCLASSIRLEI

On -

4/5/68

-at.

Birmingbam, Alabama

_File # -

_BH 44-1790

by -

SA NEIL P: SHANAHAN: 1n1

-Date dictated -

4/11/68

Thia document containe seither recommendatione nor conclusione of the FBI. It is the property of the FBl and is logned lo

our exeney: it and ila conlonto are not to bo diatribued ouldide yur agency 1E

: 023

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 29

---

## Page 30

BE 44-1740

"On Friday, March 29, 1968, sometime

In the early afternoon I had just returned frOM

lunch when I observed tir. U.

Lo BAKER, a1EO 2

salesnan, completing the sale of a rifle to an

individual unknown to me.

Mx. BAKER had just

301d this man a remington, dodel 100, callber

• 243 Winchester with a 2x-7x Redfield Scope

mounted thereon.

Mr. BAKER had made this sale

and had also mounted and bore sighted the scope

on our machine.

This individual also bought or

box of 20 rounds of .243 Norma ammunition.

He

payed cash for this sale. Then I first observed

this

man he was dressed in a dark business sult

with a white shirt and tie, as well as I renember.

He was approximately 5'8" tall, 150 to 160 pounds

and had dark hair.

He had a mediun complexion and

appeared to be a meek Individual.

This Individuai

had given his name as HARVEY LOWMEYER and stated

that he resided at 1907 South 11th Street,

• Birminghan, Alabama. He also advised that he was

36 years of age.

"This information was not given to ne

personally by this individual, but I determined 11

Irom the bill of sale that was prepared by

Mr. BAKER.

"Following the sale this individual left

the store carrying the gun in & cardboard box

utilized by the Bronning Manufacturing Company.

This box was used because with the scope mounted

the rifle mould not fit in the normal Remington ber.

He also took the empty Remington manufacturer's

carton with him when he loft.

"It was, as best I recall, either later

that alternoon or early the following Saturday

morning when this individual called on the tele-

phone and stated that he had had a conversation

with his brother and decided that the gun he har

purchased was not the gun he wanted and he requistri

whether he could exchange it for a Remington, Made?

760, 30.06 caliber.

I advised him that me coul:

make this exchange but that it would cost him ar

additional $5.00.

- : 024

15

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 30

---

## Page 31

:

BH 44-1740

"At approximately 9:00 AM on Saturday,

March 30, this sane individual returnod to the

store with the gun he had previously purchased.

then he returned the gun he had the gun still r

the Browning box. I told him that I would chang.

the scope from the callber. 243 rifle to the

Model 760, but that it would take me until approra-

mately 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon and I

Instructed him to return at 3:00 o'clock and to krint

the original Remington box for the caliber .243

reapon with him when he came as I would need & box,

store the gun in. I gave him the Model 760 gun and

I believe that I loft it in the Browning carton.

did not receive

the $5.00 because in exchanging tha

scope I had to use a Heaver bage and rings instoad

of the Redfield base and rings and this made up the

cost difference. I also exchanged th box of .243

callber ammunition for a box of 30.06 ammunition

which I believe was Poters Core Lokt, 150 grals,

20 rounds por box. He left the store carrying the fin

in the cardboard box.

"During the course of our dealings on

Saturday I asked this individual why he didn't want

the callbor .243 gun and I told him that it was &

bag enough gun to bring down any doer in Alabana.

stated in an ollhand manner. that he wanted the so. ?6

callber gun because he was going to use lt to hurt

Misconsin.

"At the prosent time this 1s all that'I car

remember concerning the transaction with this indiul.

dual.

"4/5/68

"I have read this signed statement any

accopt rhein I have initlated one correction.

Iind it to consist of this and tro other pagea and

It 1s true and correct.

"/B/ DONALD F. MOOD .

"/B/ NEIL P. SHANAHAN, Special Agent,

2Bd, 4/5/680•

"/&/ HARVIN M. EUBANKS, Special Agent,

FBI, Birmingham, 4/5/68.

": 025

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 31

---

## Page 32

026

Phone 595.2142

AIRCRAFT-AUTOMOTIVE

MARINE-SPORTING GOODS:

PARTS & SUPPLIES

AEROMARINE SUPPLY CO.

5701 EIRMUNGHAM AIRPORT HIGHWAY

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35212

DATE 3129

ADDRESS

ORDER NUMBER!

166-

QUANTITY

GUN

2251A

1968

RECORD INVOICE

L

PICK UPK

OCASH OCHECK

761522

THIS 7-STA REM NIOD 7009

MARIELE CAL

243 Nex. so: 253842 40647613495

2x=2x

Bax

2460

2390

2032

243C761e

4.65,

foreser

234-5.2

BANA

RECEIVED BY

MERCHANDISE CANNOT DE RETURNIO FOR CREDIE, REFUND OR EXCHANGI AFTER 10 DAYS FROM SALE DATE:

PURCHASEINVOICE MUST ACCOAPANY ALL RETURNS.

TAX

1423

TOTAL 25 1,69

----

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 32

---

## Page 33

FD-302 (Rov-4-15-68)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

-

Dato

April 8, 1968

residence 405 Lance Lane, BIrminghan,

AirpOrt

Highway, was asked if he could identify a customer who purchased

a gun case for a Varmint model rifle on March 29, 1968.

WOOD,

after checking his invoices, noted that there was such

a sale

made on March 29, 1968, but

the invoice was made out to "Cash."

WOOD recalled, however, that this customer is a regular custover

who 1s & white male, about 25 years old, five feet, ten inches,

170 pounds, long, black hair, whoge first name 18 JOHN.

ROOD

further recalled that he had sold a Brouning pistol to

this man

about two and one-half year ago.

WOOD then checked his records

and identifled this man as JOHN WEBSTER DeSHAZO, 17 Montevallo

Lane, Hountain Brook, Alabama, who purchased a Bronning Standard

Moight Pistol on December 11, 1965.

Later on April 7, 1968, DON MOOD made avallable the

following weapons which had been identified by JOHN HEBSTER

DeSHAZO ag having been handled by the person who purchased a

rifle and scope sight at the Aeronarine Supply Company on

March 29, 1968:

One Browning Safari grade, callbor.243,

bolt-action rifle, Serial No. 370075,

stock No. 946A.

One Rentagton Model 700, heavy barrel

Varmint •243 Winchester, Serial No. 266009,

Stock No. 753A.

One Remington Model 788, callber .30-30, bolt-

action riilo, Serial No. 020726,, Stock No. 756A.

HI. HOOD was furnished a receipt for the above

weapons.

.

Ол -

4/7/68

_at B1rmingham, Alabama

-File # .

SAS ROBBRT M. BARRETT

by

and MILLIAM A. SAUCIER RMB:mas

BH 44-1740

МЕ 44-1987

4/8/68

.: 027

-Date dictated -

NW 65004 0o0ld82989751 Ráger agcommendatione sor conclusions of the FBI. It is the broperty of the FBI and is loaned lo

a not to ha dietribitad atride varm aranore.

---

## Page 34

+0-302 (984-4-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

}

Date: April 14, 1968

Immediately following the 'receipt of a package at

approximately 12:30 a."., April 8, 1968, containing three

weapons from Special Agent ROBERT M. BARRETT, Special Agent

RALPH N. BUTLER hand-carriod them aboard a Delta Airlines

f11ght, changing to an Eastern Airlines flight in Atlanta,

Georgia, and ultimately accompanied them to MI. GEORCE BONEBRARE

of the FBI Identification Division at approximately 8:00 a.nn.

on April 8, 1968.

These items, from the time they were delivered to SA

BUTLER, did not leave his possession until delivered to Mr.

BONEBRAKE.

On

4/8/68

Birmingham, Alabana -

at Washington, D. C.

-File #

BH 44-1740

by

SA RALPH N. BUTLER:mas

-Date dictated -

4/1/68

Thia document containo seither recommendalione néf concluaino.Ut the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned i

ww.659944todldkagaitz2pnpeaffe.gg.not ko be dietrowed outside your agency

028

---

## Page 35

(

-

3-3028R0r-8--5-49,

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/11/68

At approximately 1:00 p.M. on April 5, 1968,

Mr. ROBERT E. WOOD, SR., and DONALD F. HOOD accompanied

• the Interviewing Agents

to the Aeromarine Supply Company,

unknown Individual who had purchased the Renington lodel

760 title on March 30, 1968.

DONALD F. MOOD also furnished

nine boxes of caliber.243 ammunition Iron their inventory

stating that one box of this amnunition was believed to

have been handled by the individual who purchased the gui.

DONALD F. MOOD also furnisbed a set of Redfield bases and

rings which had been the original bages and rings furnished

by the manufacturer of the Rodiield scope.

Mr. HOOD was.?: lurnished a signed receipt for

the above 1 tens.

Innediately following the receipt of these 1ters,

SA NEIL P. SHANAHAN hand carried then aboard a United Ali

Ines right, changing to a Delta flight in atlanta, MeroiLa,

and ultimately accompanied them to tr. GEORGE BONEBRAKE PE

the FBI Identification Division at approximately 8:00 p.u.

sane date.

These items, Iron the time they were delivered

to SA SHANAHAN, did not

loave his possession until deliyered

tO MI. BONEBRAKE.

On .

4/5/68

_at -

Birmingham, Alabama

_File #

BH 44-1740

SAS NEIL P. SHANAHAN and

by -

NEIL G. MARTIN: NPS/jul

-Date dictated _ 4/31/68

MM 65991 Rests: 37989741ePage 3ándelione nor conclusione of the FBI. Il in the pronere of the Ell and ia laned 1o

029

---

## Page 36

FD-902 (ROT-4-1S-B4)

:

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dato -

418/68

U. L, BAKER, 1408 Clermont Drive, advised he 1s ar.

employee of the Aeronarine Supply Company, Airport Higaway.

Birmingham.

In connection with

the sale of a gun case for'a

Varmint model rifle, BAKER said he recalled making such a

sale, but could not

recall the date nor the name of the

custoner.

He said he could not state that this gun case mes

sold on the same date that he'had sold a rifle and scope sight.

which was Harch 29, 1968.

He said the man who bought the gua

27 - 28 yearg old, 5'9", 180

thinning salt.

BAKER identified

the other salesman, who would

nave been behind the counter on larch 29, 1968, as the manager.

of the store, J. HOYT STEPHENS.

*

In connection with the accent or speech of the persor

who purchased the rifle and scope sight, BAKER said he belleved

It was fron "this" (Alabana) general area.

BAKER said that

the man who purchaged the rifle had left the store on March 29,

1968, and came back later in the afternoon and picked up the

rifle.

He was asked 11 it was possible that the man stayed ir.

the store during this time, and BAKER said he was not sure.

On.

4/7/68

-at

Birminghan, Alabana

_File #

BH 44-1740

SAS ROBERT M. BARRETT and

by -

WILLIAM A. SAUCIER:RMB: fbt

212 Date dictated

4/8/68

This document containa seilber rocommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the FBI aod is laared lo

your afoncy, it and its cordanto are sol to be diatributod outride your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 36

035

---

## Page 37

7 131 2.11

TITISH READs: 444494-4151t

оттожАя тави по 10

MIRIA

MY 1019 fONTION

UNITED STATES C RNMENT

Memorandum

18808-10012

son ones

tomata

Comp-Syal.

Mr. Jenkins

DATE: 10-31-74

dos & C

Honk. -

BROM: d. J. MODEME

SUBJECT:

MURKIN' (44-3886)

Inspection,

ALI INFORNATION CONTAINED

HEREIN IS UNCLACO

DATE 2120100

Kenmeeks

Labanatory com

Plan, & Eval. -

Jestring -

Logol Couns-

Morris Cunningham, Washington representative of the

Tetaphono Ra. -

Dinarton Sar'y —

Memphis Commercial Appeal, called Inspector Bowers during the

alternoon of 10-30-64 from Memphis, where he is covering the James Earl

Ray hearing in Federal District Court. Cunningham said Ray had testried

to having sent a letter to Senator James O. Eastland (D-Miss.) shortly after

he had been sentenced to prison for the King slaying. Ray allegedly said

that he told Senator Eastland in the letter that he personally did not shoot

King, but was partially responsible for his death. (News reports, 10-30-74,

on the hearing corroborate this and indicated that Ray's letter to Senator

Eastland was read into the record.)

Cunningham said he called Senator Eastland at his residence in

Mississippi and asked him about this matter. Eastland recalled the letter

and said he advised Cunningham about it when it was received, however,

Cunningham does not recall this. He said Eastland had told him he had

forwarded the letter to the FBI as he does many similar letters he receives

Ifrom prisoners. Cunningham said Eastland suggested he call Bowers to

determine if the FBI could locate the letter and to tell Bowers that he,

Eastland, approves furnishing contents of the letter to Cunningham.

Bowers pointed out to Cunningham that we were precluded from

-5.

doing so under Department regulations. It was pointed out to him, however,

that should Senator Eastland desire, a copy of the letter, if located, could

be made available to the Senator's office and the Senator could release the

letter if he wishes. Cunningham said that should be satisfactory with him.

He was told he would be advised as soon as this matter could be checked out. He

can be reached through the news room of the Memphis Commercial Appeal,

84

area code 901 526-8811 in Memphis.

REC 544-38861-596%

This matter was checked with Courtney Pace, Administrative

Assistant to Senator Eastland, who indicated he was aware of Cunningham's request.

Enclosure

1 - Mr. Callahan

1 - Mr. Mintz

1 - Mr. Gebhardt

1 - Mr. McDermott

1 - Mr. McGowan

1 - Mr. Bowers

12 NOV 5 1974

CBF: dkg (9),

LANOV 251974N CLOSURE

CK

NOV 18, 8974

CONTINUED - OVER

GS0Cilia

SIXT

---

## Page 38

McDermott to Jenkins Memo

Re: MURKIN

He said that should we find the letter in question and furnish a copy to

him, he would be glad to handle the matter with Cunningham for the Senator.

Bufiles reflect that Senator Eastland made a copy of Ray's letter

available to Inspector Bowers on 3-17-69. Accordingly, a copy of Ray's

letter, see attached, has been made available to Courtney Pace on 10-31-74

so that he can handle the matter with Cunningham.

RECOMMENDATION:

For information.

Ffer

---

## Page 39

SS.

888

800769479

HAGING &

881.

30000) 380

PO- A 5498 BXJV

_EBR

INBORATORI

V 65994 Docid

109

• YORK: ARMS CO.

Quality being equai

=Our prices are as low as

vou will find elsewhere

- APR 4

= 083

--

RETURN IN CASE OF

ERROR OR EXCHANGE

§ 84155C•H

÷ 083

§ 04155 CH

APR: 4

" RETURN IN CASÉ OF

BRROR OR EXCHANGE

PC- A 5498 BXS.

LABORATORY

-Q2S

---

## Page 40

- THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL mi

Xing Chalenges L.B.J Going To Hawaii Today

Court Restraint

Yows To March

To Consult On Peace Moves,);

orry Says Beni

• Enterend, Even

Set Stage For Red Meeting

US Wary Of Bid To Talk

HANOIOFFER OF TALKS

O1 Peace On Encmy Terras

ANALYSIS

ACCEPTED BY JOHNSON

АнІМаТОМ,

Tornado Strikes

Near Millington;

At Least 30 Hurt

Bricwed Urges

'Park Route OK

Us orticed Says Cons

Tho Was then

Fire Etches Bold Ledger

FETE

---

## Page 41

Republican Party of Georgia

seale finance Commmistee

Suie 605 1:30 Wrest Peachtree Streer, N.W.

Alianta, Georgis 30309

#-3

-65

FRIC.S.GAI

Siie !

145e Noos !i z

Dr. S.::. Ierploo

120-÷43.

S=:00÷,

itioiii, soorcin

30309

cauia dc;

iteilie cinlaienie

7 E ridé-

, 33

NW 65994

Docld 32939731

Page

41

---

## Page 42

OFFICE INVOICE

Phone 595.2832

MIRCRAFT-AUTOMOTIVE

AEROMARINE SUPPLY CO.

MARINE-SPORTING GOODS

5701 BIRWNGHAM AIRPORT HIGHWAY

PARIS & SUPPLIES/

BIRMINGHAM, ALAGANA 35212

TO

ADDRESS

ARKEY LOWMEYER,_ PALES

GUN

NU1S3IK

2251 A

1968

302- S0174 ST, B3

PHONE E

MICK UX

TFE345*0V

1584А

TOTAL

1/70M1*

75TA REM.

Mos.

700

RULe ACTION ADE BA-RIFLE, CAL

243 WIN. SN. 22

+79 46147X1.3495

1.

/.

12X=2X|HEDFIELD SCORE. _

24660

23?01

20/32

Box 243 .Cro....

4.65,

234:5.2

IN CORCE 1S GIVEN 10 1O16

CLEANED

алак 106

vale

RECEIVED BY

SHALL

REMAIN

СИСЕК НАВ

TAx!

14.02.

10842.48,59

•72

30445994999944993129994792

---

## Page 43

Your File No.

• 44-1987

FBI File No.

44-38861

Latent Case No. 91075

April 24, 1968

tirze

RE: JAMES EARL RAY, FBI #405942G

Latent fingerprint previously reported on the

Remington model 760 riile, serial #461476, Q2; the latent linger-

print on the telescopic sight, serial #A17350, on the rifle, Q2;

latent fingerprint on the binoculars, Q14; the latent fingerprint

on the newspaper, Q19; the latent fingerprint on the after shave

lotion bottle, part of Q24; and the latent fingerprint on the Schlitz

beer can, Q53, have all been identified with the fingerprints of

James Earl Ray.

".'.

120

tt ,fe s ta # "a

CNW-65994 Docld:32989731 Page 43

---

## Page 44

REGISTRATION CARD

NOTICE-TO

CUISTS: - Thls propelly is brivalely owned aul pianoeement

resurves tight lo refuse servico lo onyono, and will nol to les.

denia or injury lo quisis or lor loss el monoy, jewelry or valualiva of cay kind.

¿ RENTAL PAYABLE IN ADVANCE

-STATE G. CO-GROUN

REPRESENTING

54.

0: 71 38972

CAR LICENSE

OrBario se, G. ieaço 20, 114:

STATE

MAKE OF CAR

REMARKS

44-38861

JK

IABORATORY

65994 Doctdis

THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT

THANK YOU

DATE

AMP. PAID

RECEIVEO FROM

Vic Dupralt's New Rebel MOTOR HOTEL

PHONE FA 3-7841

3166 LAMAR AVE.

MEMPHIS, TENN.

---

## Page 45

ETolt, E.3.

ARRIVE

DEPART

/

6"24

DATE

FORWARD

ROOMS

CAFE

6291

PHONE

LONG DIS.

MISE.

LAUNDRY

YELIG.

CASH

TOYAL

CR.CASM

CRo ALLOW.

BALANCE

12.4

44-38861

FBI=

LABORATORI.

TK

---

## Page 46

МОКІМЕЙ

LABORATORY

REGISTRATION CARD

NOTICE TO

GUISTS: - This property

de privately

rosarros righl lo reluso survico lo asyodo.

donle os lajury lo guaste or 10r loss ol

monay, joweixy

or valuatios ol any kad.

RENTAL PAYABLE IN ADVANCE

an Biamay los.

REPRESENTING.

154

Amerscas Hubes Resisler Ca.

-STATE Alibona

8-232 1F. Pararo 28. F. leaço 20. 1il.

MAKE OF CAR

REMARKS

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 46

THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT

THANK YOU

ROOM

DATE

BECEINTO EROM

Vic Dipratt' New Robel MOTOR HOTEL

PHONE FA 9,7841

3188 LAMAR AVE.

MEMPHIS. TENN.

---

## Page 47

BH 44-1740 •

PURCHASE OF 1966 WHITE MUSTANG TWO-DOOR

BY ERIC S. GALT, 2608 HIGHLAND AVENUE,

FROM OYNER, WILLIAM D. PAISLEY, ON

AUGUST 29 and 30, 1967.

ALL INFORUATION CONTAINED

MEREIN IS UNCTASSIRTED

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 47

48

---

## Page 48

2-302 (Rov. 4-3-8

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

}

Date -

- 4/13/68

At 8:30 A.M., the records of the Jefferson Courty

Department of Revenue were examined to determine the registered

owner of an automobile bearing 1968 Alabama tag no. 1-38993,

These records'indicated that this tag was issued on October

1967, to MX.. ERIC S. GALI, 2608 Hlghland Avenue, Birminghan,

Alabama, for a 1966 Mustang, two-door, eight cylinder, Vehicle

Identification No. 6T07C190647.

This record also indicated

that this car bore a previous 1967 Alabama tag no. 1A-88354,

A check of the records concerning this number revealed that

this number mas issued for the sane autonobile to a Mr.

WILLIAM D. PAISLEY, 701 48th Street South, Birmingham, Alabana,

nho bought

fron Maring Crawford Ford Company, Birmirghar,

This car had originally bees registered

Birminghan

PAISLEY on December 15, 1966, and Has then transferred IrOn...

PAISLY tO ERIC S.

GALI,

1066, ranslared

• 2:

2608 Highland Avenue, Birmingham,

Alabama, on. August 30, 196%.

On

4/9/68

Lat Birmingham, Alabama

_File # .

BH 44-1740

SAS NEIL P. SHANAHAN and

by.

ROBERT 4. BARRETT:NPS: jal :jut

—Date dictated

3/21/68

Thie document containe neither recommendatione por conclusione of the FBI.4: 5 the property of the FBI and is loaned to

NWP6599006c1a79298979ierage 48t to be distributed outside your agency.

---

## Page 49

2

BN 44-1740

PAISLSY reCalls GALT mentioned that he worked on

a barge line between New Orleans and St. Louds, and that he

would work 20 days and then be off 10 days.

He recalled

CALT saying that

he was married,

and that his wife was roy

living "over in Rocky Ridge," referring to an area south of

Fonewood, Alabana.

PAISLEY described GALT as a white male, age alput

32, five feet, ten and one-hall Inches tall, 160

to 157 9933d₴,.

dark broun hair,

neat-looking, neat dresser, quiet, aecert

-was not Iron the Alabana area.

"THr. PAISLEY said he did not belleve he could fdaatify

FECALT 11, he ever saw himjagain.

¿PAISLEY produced a bill of sale for this transactios

"twhich shong the car mas sold to ERIC GALT, 2608 Highland

"'Avenue, Birwingham, Alabama, telephone 323-9487, for S1,975

on August 30, 1967.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 49

---

## Page 50

FD-J02 (Rov. 1-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date -

April 9, 1968

MILLIAM D. PAISLEY, 701 48th Street South,

Btralaghes, Lurnished the following.

: я

On August 29, 1967, a man later identified as ERIC

CALT came to the PAISLY residence in a taxi cab. This man.

apparently was the same man who had called earlier in the

day and talked to PAISLEY'a Mile about an ad the PAISLE3s had

placed in & local newspaper in an effort to sell their 1366

white Mustang. PAISLEY showed the automobile which has a

red interior to CALI and offered to let him test-drive the

CASE, GAIT refused

to drive the car,, saying he did not have

* *

an Alabama drivers license, but he did have one in Lovislaza:

PAILRY then drove Calt around the area, and during this :

drive picked up PAISLEY!S sON DAVID.

'When they retured

tO

the: PAISLEY residence, GALT said "I'll take 1t off your

bands."

GALT sald he did not like the off-white color of the

but apparently was othermise satisfied.

GALT thaN s1g

gested that he give PAISLEY sone earnest money, and asked is

'PAISISY WOUld dIve GALT tO

the downtown area of Birmingtar.

It was then agreed that they would meet the next day at

about 10:00 s.I. at the First National Bank to settle the

"desl.

GALT told PAISLEY that he, CALT, had his bank accourt

at the Birmingham Trust National Bank.

GALT asked PAiSLuT

how he wanted paynent for the car, and PAISLEY suggested a

-cashier's check. GALI said he did not know ho to get a

cashier's check, and PAISlEy sald he would show him how the

next day: " PAISLEY, acconpanted by big on DAVID, then toci

GALT to First Avenue and North 20th Street, where CAlI get

out of the car.

The next day PAISLEY received a telephone call fror;

-GAIT, who said he would meet hin at the First National Bar'i

to settle the deal.

At about 10:15 a.I., they met In IICIS

of the bank, and CALT took $2,000 cash out of his shirt.

pocket and gave 1t to PAISLEY. PAISLEY suggested they so

inside the bank and count the money, which they did.. PAlSIs?

deposited the soney in the bank, and CALT went with PAISLEE's

son to a parking' lot where he took possession of the car.

On -

4/9/68

-at

Birmingham, Alabama

SAS NBIL P. SHANAHAN

and ROBERT M. BARRETT

RMS: maS

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 50

-File # -

BH 44-1740

419/68

058

---

## Page 51

FD-302 (Rov-4-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

. Date -

4/12/68

it' .==

¿ar'

Sometime in late August, 1967, PAISLEY's lathex

had run an ad in the Sunday newspaper in

an effort to sell

tholt 1966 white two-door' hardtop Mustang with red interior

and whitewall tires.

They advertised the car as being for

ale 10r $1,995.

A couple of days later, a man lator identi-

slod aS BRIC GALI and PAISLEY's lather picked up PAISLEY at the

home of one of his Irlends.

PAISLEY's father was driving the

car and GALT was riding in

the front seat.

They drove around

the area for awhile and then returned to the PAISLEY, residence,

•GALT 'did not

for-:the.cary

jhands.'

¿i: He then agreed to give PAISLey's lather a donn fagsieri

SII NT. PAISLY, would take GALI back to downtown Biruingham.

They then agreed to meet the next morning at the first National

Bank to settle the deal, because PAISLEY's lather has his office

In that building and PAISLEY at the time was employed in the

First National Bank.

check.

XT. PAISLEY suggested that GALT obtain a cashier's

PAISLEY and his lather then took GALI to First reve

North and.20th Street,

where he got out of the car.

That

ovening, August 29, 1968, PAISLEY tried to call GALT at the tele-

phone number GALT had left with PAISLEY'S lather, PAISLEY

was unable, to talk to GALT as he was not at the number called

and PAISLEY learned this number was at a rooming house on high-

land Avenue.

The next day PAISLBY's lather received a teleptene

call Iron GALT who sald he was six blocks away fron the firel

National Bank building and would neet the PAISLEYS in fros! of

the First National Bank at about 10:15 A.M.

They net 1a 12o:)

of. the bank at 10:15 A.Hl. and GALT produced $2,000 in cash.

mostly twenties, with some 100-dollar bills,

They stopped

inside the bank where the money was counted and GALI nas

BIVen a bill of sale.

...

Ол 4/9,10/68

-at Birminghan, Alabana:

_File #_ BH 14-1740

SAE NIL P. SHANAHAN and

ROBERT MA BARRETT:RMB•mas:jbt

-Date dictated - 4/9J1/68

NW 65994 Dold: 32989731 Page 51.

Fair a.

060

---

## Page 52

BX 44-1740

PAISLEY then took GALT to the parking lot where the

car was parked and showed him how to drive the car. Fe thea

gave GALT the keys and GALI drove ofl.:,

"""DAVID PAISLEY recalled that he observed this sani

car for about six weeks after the sale, parked in front of

the rooming house in the 2600 block of Highland Avenue, but .

that be:had not seen this automobile since about the first ci

October,: 1967. He also recalled that on one of these occasions

he observed &

flag: thereon.:

front bumper tag with a drawing of a Confedesate

bargo

Orleans. He would work a month and then be off for two secks,

and that this was a lonely life. He also said he bad saved

all 'his money fron his job and would pay cash for the car.

PAISLEY also recalled that GALT was emphatic about

not'tost driving the automobile, and sald that his louisiana

Iicense had 'expired and he had not obtained an Alabama dri!"

Ilconso got.

He-also recalled GALT making a statemunt thi? Fe

did his banking at the Birmingham Trust National Bank, and

have my noney there."

PAISLEY described GALT as a white male, 5'8"-84" age 32,,

tall,. 145 pounds, dark brown or black hair with a sidon's reak

and cut short.

This person was not a smoker, was very cleat-

cut; very shy and quiet.

He claimed he was divorced aus tozt

his wife was presently Ilving on Rocky Ridge or Dolly RiJge

Road "over the mountain," referring to an area south of

Homewood, Alabana.

PAISLEY recalled this person had an sr:o1e

which was possibly Nestern, but was definitely not Iron eti

Alabana area.

PAISLEY 21s0 recalled this person saying he ja?,

unemployed at that time,

"PAISLEY said be could definitely idontity

this person 11 ho ever saw him again.

*r 061

NW 65994 Docld:32989731' Page 52

i po

---

## Page 53

(

3

BH 44-1740

On April 10, 1968, DAVID PAISLEY observed an

artist's conception of a person who had purchasod a riflo

at Aeromarine Supply, Birmingham, on March 29, 1968. PiSie?

said this artist's conception did not resemble ERIC GAL.

PAISLEY said his father had told GALT during the

, transaction that GALT would have to get insurance for the lag.=::

as the PAISLEYs would cancel their car insurance by calliy

State Farz Insurance Company that day (August 30. 19629.

PAISLiX recalled that GALI did not ask any questions or sai

..anything further about car insurance.

Fidseio"

During his

contacts

with CALI, PAISLEY SAd Fe

never detected the odor of alcohol on GALT nor did he observo

¿GALI suote cigarettes.

PAISLEY said the ad for the autoretste

"had been run in the "Birmingham News" on Sunday, August 47; 195"

only.

PAIsLey recalled GALT, after inspecting PAISLEY 'E

Mustang, saying that this was the cleanest ono that GA!? näl see.

He 8150

rocalled GALI saying, "I've get my money in the 8:'---÷a=

Trust," and did not refer to the bank as the "BTiB," shirt 15

commonly done by natives of Birmingham. ' In conrection ?!:

GALT's divorced wife whon GALT claimed

was living ei sarks

.

Ridge Road or Dolly Ridge Road, "over the mountain,

"PAIS!I:

reCalls GALI saying, "Yeah, that's the way it goes."

PAISLEY said the price of $1,995 for the Mustang

was $300 too much, but this price was never questioned by

GALT and this price did not seem to bother GALT in any ta:.

GALT sald he had been saving his money and because ho worked

a barge he had no place to spend it.

PAISLEY

said he could not recall how GALT was drya

on August 29, 1967, but did belleve that on August 30, 1967.

GALT WAS WEBLING &

sport coat, a dress shirt, with ne 140.

. open at tho neck.

1952

Priot to GALT's taking possession of the car on

August 30, 1967, PAISLEY's father asked GALI hOW GALT HaS gui:

to got his driver's license.

GALT replied that he bad a

Islend "over at the rooning

house," who would take him in lir

place where he could obtain a driver's license and change:r

registration on the car.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731' Page 53

---

## Page 54

(

(

..?

BH

44-1740

DAVID FAISLEY recallod that during the n0rit so s1s

weeks after the sale he had observed this car parkod or autures.

occasions in front of the mooning house in thi 2600 block ri

Highlais Averue.

He had nozed that this car seemed to br far:??

Iron 1101-u5e, rather than from being driven, and that so she sail:

accasion or observing

, this car which would have beer aw:!: ere

first of October: 1967, the car still had the slick ba!"

tires that had boen on it when it was sold.

in anita

"pAISLEY furnished the following dotailed danis,:isy

of the autonobile:

'1"

:1966 white Mustang, two-door hardtop, digtt

cylinder, 289, lour individual red plastic r

floor mats, push button, radio, heater, ronnie

control outside mirror, day-night inside rierry

very clean engine, mileage 20.000 miler, ralia.

with nutolite battery, four whitewall. tai!

The spare was in good

.15r.=.

shape but had a wider bi!.

wall than the tires on the wheels.

The seat.

more mediun red in color and the carpetinz sis

maroon or dark red. The body conditio: si

•car was excellent and the muffler vas paisl

shiny silver.

PAISIEY sald that he had forgotten to adviga di

April'9, 1968, that on April 5, 1968, someline betrees 1:00 :.

and

1:30 P.4.

whilo driving east on

fifth Avenu, North,

Iront of the U. S. Post Office, PAISLiY ObSerVou a 1966: l1:

walte Hustang hardtop, which he thought could possiti;..r.

same car he had sold to GALT.

He also. al 1! 81? ? 81°.

observed the back of " dan getting

into this car me t.ii

resenbled that of Gill. PAISLY said he sours rot le ":.

that this was the rime car andl that the individual da!

as bo only had a fleeting glimpse.

..."

55

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page,54

---

## Page 55

1000

1=20-68

„560г.

100031

The fellaring FEl record, NUMBER

105:942 G

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

infornction shown on this Idenlificalici Record represents dole furnishied.Fül by fingerprini contribuions. WHERE

FINAL DISPOSHION IS NOT SHOWI OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIPED, COMMUNICHTE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTASUTOR OF

FINGERSZINTS

NAME ANO ¡RUMBER

ARRESTED OR

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISTOSITION

James Ear'i Ray

$16 263 199

heriff's Office:

os Angcles,

Janes Farl

#B-119908

Ray

olice Department

os Angeles,

=lifornia

James Eari

RaY

#139548

....

february

19,

1946

October

17, 1949

October

11; 1949

suspicion of

burglary

suspicion

659 Penal

• Code

(burglary)

8 months Cour

Jail suspende

2 years..

probation

served; "1ixst

90 days Coun

J221; 146

Decamber: 20,

19÷9

0512993

"rift's Office

-lar Papids, Iowa

lice Department

son, Illinois

James E. Hay

#5937

James Far?, Ray

#7514

Aprl 18,

1950

vagrancy

July 23,

1951

lice Department

iuzzo, Illinois

* County Jail

icago, IllInois

Janes Ray

#D90696

Janes Ray

#131165

ate Penitentiary

int, Illino15

tuPenitentiary

-tiac, Illinois

James E. Hay

#32419

James

E.. Hay

#19121

Say

6,

1952

Blay 9

1952

June 13,

1952

July 7,

1952

in

transfer

from

Joltot

no operator's

license - no

State License .

no City License

robbery (Guzz)

rcleased to

latex

robbary

robbery.

Grand Jury

$3000

June 13, 1952

sentenced to

penitentiary

2:t0:2 years

•I to'z years

robbery

I- to: 2 jears

Barch 12, 195

discharged

ALL INFORMA'

CONTAINE?

HEREIN

IS T CLASS NOS

DATE-

Nolosions indicated by " are NOT basun on fingerprints in F3l files but are listed only as investigalive leads as

being possioly identical with subject of lilis record.

• "John Edgos Hoover

Director

---

## Page 56

The following FBl record, NUMDER

135.912 G

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

• Informstion shown on this Identification Resord represents dola furnished FEl by fingerprint contributoss. WHERE

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICATE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTZIJUTOR OF

FINGERRINTS

MALE AND NUMBER

ARRESTED 02

SECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISTOSTION

Sheriff's Office.

Edwardsville,

IzZinois

-

Police Departuent

HanribzI,

Missouri

State Highway

Patrol

Hacon, Missours

United States

Marshal

Kansas City,

Sheriff's Office,

iansas City,

lissouri

United States

Penitentiary

cavenworth,

2n525

James Faxl Ray

#2640

Janes F.

740714

Ray

Jawes Earl Ray

#B-3376

Jaues Earl Ray •

#12018

Jangs Farl Ray

#29637

Janes Ear], Ray

#72198-1

August

30, 1954

barch 23

1955

March 23

1955

blarch

28,

1955

sarch

1955

28

July 7,

1955

burglary and

larceny

investigation

of. breaking and

entering' Post

Office

cashing stolen

postal money

orders

foigery United

States Postal

Noncy Order

Forgery. -

Government

Post Office

Laws

Forgé:; Money

Orders.

scleased to

Postal Inspec

Kansas City,

dissours

Sarch 24, 195

sentenced to

15 months

custody of

Attorney 'Gene

JULy 1,. 1955

• years

and

nonths

3 years and 9

blice Departuent

sint Louis,

James Earl Ray

#81071

October

10, 1959

suspicion of

robbery

Notations indicated by " are NOT based on fingerprinis in FBI files but are listod only os invostigalive leads os

being possibly identical wilhi subject of this record.

John Edgor Hoover

Lenalin

---

## Page 57

Poto TurT

7-26-65

÷ The following Fil record, NUMBER

405 942 G

• is furnished FOR OFFiCIAL USE

• Information shown on this ldentificolion Recora represenis dala furnished FSl by fingerprint cortribuioss. y

FINAL DISPOSITION IS. NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUN

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTNIUTOR OF

ARRESTED OR

FINGERPRINIS

NAME AND NUHSER.

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISPOSTTiO

Police Department

Saint Louis,

Missouri

State Penitentiary

Jefterson City,..

Missouri

¡State Hospital

Nurber 1

Fulton, Missouri

So liemphis Ienn

Janes FarI. Ray.-

481071

Janes Earl Ray

HO041G

October

16, 3959

suspicion of

robbery

stealing and

fugitive other

authoxities

March 17,

"TC"

1960 v

operating. notox

chicle without

pernission of

owner

rohbery fixst

"O/IS DDYY"

(2 charges)

20

yeat's

7,

5,

concurrel

April 23,

escaped

James Earl Ray

#37045 C5

Septenber Patient

,,1966:

James Eari Ray

'*39723

7-19-68

murder ist deg

Notations indicated by " are NOT bused on fingerprints in FBI files but ore listed only os investigalive lead

being possibly identicol with subject of this record.

John Edgar Hoover

3

Director

---

## Page 58

The following F8) record, NUMBEr

405 942 G

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL U:

Information shown on this identification Record represenis dato furnished FBl by fingerprini contribulor:

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COME

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTRIBUTOR OF

ARRESTED OR

FINGERPRINIS

NAME ALTO NUMBER

RECEIYED

CHARGE

• DISPOS

WAITED:

James dark Ray for escape 4-23-67

loper " to perm of omer; ronb 1st &eg

(will extradite) Notify

Warden SPen Jefferson City Mo inf Iec

5-10-67

* *

NO LONGER MANTEI

per inf'rec 7-19-69

Notasions indicoled by " are NOT based on fingerprints in FBI files bus ore listed only as investigalive leo

being possibly idontical with subject of this record.

• John Edgor Hoover

Director

NW t

u*ai

---

## Page 59

5

т6000NDL. 20337

7-25-64

405 942 G

The foliowing FBI recoro, NUMBER

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE

Information shown on this l'entification liecord represents data furnished FBl by fingerprint coniributois.

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMU

WITH AGENCY CONTRISUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTNZUTOR OF

FINGEXPRINTS

NAHE AND NUMBER

ARLESTED.OR

RECEIYED

CHARGE

• DISPOSTI

CC:

Warden

SPen

Jefferson Cacy

Notations indicaied by " are NOT based on fingerprints in FBI files but are listed only as investigative leas

being possibly identical with subject of this record.

'S

John Edgar Hoover

Director

---

## Page 60

Jihs following FBI record, NUMSER

'862 651A

• is tunished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

Information shown on this Identification Record sopresenis dato furnished FBI by fingesprint contribuloss. YtHERE

FINAL DISPOSITION' IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANAIION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNiCATE

WITH AGENCY COINTRBUTNG THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTRJUTER O!

ALESTED

• 02.

•...

ANGEliNES

RECEIYED

"CHARGE

- DISPOSITION iN..

savannon da

Jerry Million

Ray

#3-5690

7-25-70

a33 A

11-29-70 86

* *.

Motorisis jrtecind by Gru MOT based on ingriprint: in fil fies bel neo listed only as investigative leads es

bid gone j iéunticel with subjeet of this rocord.

IDENTICICATIDY DIVISICH

NW 65994-Đocld:32989731-Page-60-

---

## Page 61

Foremcci depo

4-3-

•nd-Tli.

SATLaY COUNTT fÄIE

Nemphis, Tennessed

February 18: 1959

Percy Foriran, Esge,

¿Near Ar. Foreran:

case pending in sheloy County,

(Memphis) in which

I am indicted for the murder of Martin Luther king- That is

•the purpose of this letter.

"I appraciate the fact that you have' stated you are-

silling to contest this case through tns trial court and tho

appellate courts of Tennessae; and, it necessary,

to the Sur

preme Court of tho United

states.

But you have told me that

an appeal is not necessarily synonrous with a reversal, and

I already knew that.

together,

analyzed the evidence against.

me and both of us

He haverve concluded that it is Impossible to con-

trovert cervain incriminating fingerprints;

• identification,

and other circunstances.

•e both believe that,

ultimately, a

trial or trials vill result in a final conviction,

and that

the alternate punishments

will be either life;

ninaty-nine

years in the pantentiary or death in tha electrie chair ne

Trererore, this is ny authority to you to negotiate

a plea of guilty on

ay behalf for any term of years, but with:

a raiver of the death penalty. If you are successiul in doing

30, I ill enter such a plea at tho convenience oî the Court

and all concerned.

You rava guaranteed me that if I do enter

such a plea, that the death punalty needs must be

that I will'not be sencenced to deatire i

waived and

sincerely yours,

VER

!!."

*AG

ALL I!

almaginee

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 61

---

## Page 62

•*-

F0-30R (Rey-4015-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

MX. RALPH MEREDITH CARPENTER,: 1811 Durbin Street,

Nemphis,

Tennessee, telephone 685-5618

iadvised that he 15 a

salesman at tho York Arms Company located 'at 162 solti Lirin

Street, Memphis,,

. Mx. CARPENTER rECALlS

'that yesterday, April 4, 1968,

he was in the above mentioncd store talking to our of the

other salesmen in the store when an individual entered and

suissequently bought from him

¡a pair of Bushnell binoculars.

this Individual entered the store at about 1.00 in the

aficinoon.

MC. CARPENTER estImates

this to be the colicet

кіно лий,

in part, bases his estimate on the fact that

licro were pickets

parading 'in front of the store at that

LiDO. Dix'. CARPENTER' recalls that'as this individual proceeded

suither into the store he turned

to this individual and asked

if he could be of nssistance... The individual stated that he

riched to purchase some binoculats, and dir. CARPENTER told

Din that he was ahout out

of binoculars and believed the

enly ones he had in stock were a pair selling.for $200 and

amried min selling for ninety-some dollars.

The individual

stillest that he believed these were too high priced for him,

AS CAN 8S'. CARPENTER recalled that, there night be a cheaper

•all ni binoculara in the window and advised the individual.

i'le would sind out.

Mr. CARPENTER thercupon went to

"i disolay vindow in the front of the store and determined

¿n" 18690 vas on alaplay a pair of Bushucil binoculnis

181998 10r :100, 95.

He sought these binoculnis back to

ni belles suasily.

ine individual seemed to indicate that

' cithes sceognized the name os that no agreed tint theic

•sie tone good lapanese imports.

The customci raisco the

Hn000lads 10 his cyes and in sone manner, not now recalled

ly 118

CARDENcER, Indicared that these binoculars were

•i. CAR.oNth recalls thar the customer asked if

instructsons were in the box, and Mr. CARPENTER advised him

that. there nore instructions in the box, but not much was

needod to be known to operare the binoculars, other than to

118

HEREIN IS UNGLASSENILD

• joe do

-File # Nemphis™ 14-1987

by

SA KALON L LIFTER

BJL/2912

_Date dictated -

4/5/08

1W 6500 eye emendatione, nor conclusione of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned lo

309

---

## Page 63

НЕ 44-1987

2

just place them to the eyes and adjust the eye pleces.

Ms.

CARPENTER recalls that he wrote on the box in which he

placed the binoculars the price $39.95 and the amount of

tax which was $1.60 and

added the two figures for a total

of $41.55.

He placed the sales slip and the box with the

binoculars in it in & gray paper bag which bears the name

of York Arms on its side. The binoculars were in a leather

or similar type carrying cage. The store does not record

or maintain serial numhers for these binoculars and it is

pat once at any, serial number nas on thia particular

Mr. CARPENTER stated that the binoculars were

Bushbell brand and were 7 by 35 size.

Mr. CARPENTER described the customer as follows:

Race:

White

Sex:

Male

• Age:

26 - 32 years

Height:

5 feet 11 inches

Weight:

160 pounds to 175 pounds

Hair:

Black or dark brown, neat,

combed straight back and not

parted. It was neither very

long nor shaggy.

Еуев:

Complexion:

Build:

Scars and narks:

Regional accent:

DrEsS:

Color not recalled; no glasses

MOrn

Ruddy

Medium

None recalled

None noticed

Dark suit, not know whether

or not pants matched coat, but

recalls pants did not contrast

with coat; color of shoes not

known but not in sharp contrast

to other clothing; no hat morn;

walte shirt with noticeably wide

space &t the.collar, neat looking;

dark tie with light stripe which

covered entire tie, which mas

tied in & long slender knot which

did not fill the space between

the collars; tie was noticeably

pulled to one side, not in keepiog

Fitb generally neat appearance of

custoner; no Jewelry remembered.

119

310

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 63

---

## Page 64

ME 44-1987

Facial characteristics: Average Lullness; nothing

regarding the eyes, nose,

; ears or other features

noticeable.

Customer's

hands were

though

• Bothing outstanding was

noticed about them.

Mx. CARPINTER recalls that the individual reachea

into his right front pants pochet to got the noney with which

to pay for the binoculars.

The money ras not in a billfold

or a money clip.

The customer withdrew two $20 bills from

a roll which contained several other bills, at least tro of

which Mr. CARPENTER believes were $20 bills.

also took & $1.00 bill Iron this roll and then reached into

his other front pocket with his left hand and secured tho

quarters and & nickel, making a total of $11.55 for the

payment. After purchasing the binoculars, the customer

walked

fron the store and Mr. CARPENTER told him to "hurry

back" or sone similar parting statement, and the customer's

reply 18 not recalled, 11 any was made. Mr. CARPENTER does

not know which direction the customer took after leaving the

store.

Mr. CARPENTER does not recall ever having seen

this individual before in the store or elsewhere, but feels

relatively certain that 1f he sees him again he would be

able to recognize him.

The custoner, while in the store, did not ask to

see any other merchandise such as rifles or guns or

ammunition of any kind, and made no inquiry at all concerning

any other merchandise.

Mr. CARPENTER stated that when the custoner entered

the store CARPENTER was near the Iront of the store talking

to Mr. VERNON YORK. Further back in the store he belleves

CRARLES GIBSON waS near the cash register, and Mr. HUGH

BAbbLer, a cicIl, Has Miso somewhere in the store.

Re belfeves

also that possibly ur. CordRa YORK,

JR., may have been in

the store, but he does not know whether of not any of these

Individuals took notice of the customer.

120

311

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 64

---

## Page 65

FD -102 (Rev-8015-84)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

'Date .

4/16/68

SAC ROBERT G. JENSEN and SA RALPH J. LIEHER contacted

Kain Street,

Of SAC JENSEN and he has previously been Interviewed by SA LIEfER.

He was told we had an additional group of photographs we would

like him to view.

He was told that no significance should be

attached to the sequence or arrangement the photographs might

be in when he say then. Thess whotograins were laid out, one

after another, on the second Iloor anay from bystanders and other

employees in the lork arms company.

CARPENTER spent at leazt trenty minutes reviewing

carefully each of the photographs. He expressed some hesitation

for & time between & photograph of one RICHARD SHITH and the

photograph of ERIC S. GALT.

No nines and no identifying data

of any kind were furnished to CARPNIER in connection with his

study of these photographs. He did state in connection with a

photograph of ShITH that he thought this vas a local Memphis boy

whon he might have seen. He turded this photograph over and did

reject the photograph as not brita identical to the one to whom

he sold the binoculars.

He studied carefully for approximately live minutes

the photograph of ERIC S. CALT ard made comments concerning the

appearance of GALT.

He stated the hair vas generally similar

to the customer but thought it might be just a little bit longer

than when the custoner had been in the store on April 4. He also

sald that he recalled the custoner ho palted on did not have

heavy, bushy eyebrons but they fere nore like the eyebrows in the

photograph of GALT. He also stated ha had no recollection of

seeing GALT's teeth and thought he had a snile when he waited on

CARPENTER also said he had no independent recollection or

GALT's ears appearing as they did in the photograph, but he then

said he did not notice them particularly.

He did furnish the

following statement regarding his identification of the photograph

Of ERIC 8. GALT:

121

0n _ 4/16/68

_at

Jenghiss Tennessee

_File # Yemphis 44-1987

- ^ 312

SAC ROBERT G. JENSEN 2nd

by -SA BALPH S. LTINER

_ Date dictated 4/16/68

This document containg neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FRl. It in the property of the FBI and is Joaned so

NW 85994 Doc|d 329807 Mnlager5no lo be distributed outside your agency.

---

## Page 66

2

HE #44-1987

"Apr1] 16, 1968

"On April 16, 1958, I, Ralph M Carpenter was shown a group

of 5 photographs by Spocial Agent in Charge Robert & Jensen

and Special Agent Ralph J Liowar. Alter carelul study of

each of these pictures I placed my name on the back of the

picture which I feel most resembled the man who bought a

162 So. Main St., Memphis, Tennessee.

аДу пашев ох апу

descriptive date regarding any of the

photographs shown.

I Has 81a0 told that no sIgnifICance

should be attached to any sequence of arrangonent that the

photographs were shorn to me.

I did turn one photograph

OVEr &B I

thought I recognized this to be a local Memphig

boy.

I did not howaver recognize him as the person to whon

I sold the binoculars.

"In choosing the photograph I was guided by my best recollec-

t10n.

I resember that the an tho bought the binoculars

did not have hoary eyebrous and vero about nodium l1ke the

ones in the photograph solected by me. I did not sell any

other binoculars on Apr1l 4, 1988

"My signature attorts that I an in agrooment with

the intornation set forth on pago one and pago two of this

statement.

/s/ Ralph H. Carpenter

/8/

/8/

Robert & Jensen

spIll 16, 1968

Ralph J. LlOMOr

Special agent FBI

Apr11 16, 1968"

It should be noted that the name "ERIC S. GALT"

was not furnished to CARPENTER, los vas he in a position to

read the nane when he eighed the bick of the photograph.

His

concluding renarks, which vere sade at approxinately 11:20 s.u.,

4/16/68, were to the olfect that, "I don't own a suit.

suppose I will hava to buy & quit so that I can go to court."

122

.

NW 65994 Docld: 32989731 Page 66

313

---

## Page 67

9D-302 (ReY-4-15-84)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVES: GATION

%..

Date

April 25, 1968

Photographs of JAMES EARL RAY taken 1955, 1960,

and 1966, and of the bedspread recovered atiMemphis, April 4,

1968, were shown to Mrs. BESSIE RUTH BREHER,. ROOn No. 2,

422÷ South Main Street,

Menphis, Tennessee.

She said she

bad looked at the bedspread on April &, 1968, when It was

displayed to her after being recovered by the hemphis PoliCe.

She

said the bedspread did not come from her rooming house

and in fact she had never seen one like it before in her

life.

Hrs. BREWER sald none of the men in the photographs

She further advised that

she did not believe she would recognize the man using the

name JOHN HILLARD If ho were to "walk up and say hello to

me right now."

She said she did not look at the man

called HILLARD "squarely in the face" and as a result, does

not think she will be able to identily him.

ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED

DATE d

7

April 24, 1968 Memphis, Tennessee

_File #

Memphis 44-1987

by

SA STEPHEN M. DARLINGTON: jap

-Date dictated

4/25/68

his document containe neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is joaned i

our agency: it and ila contento are not to be distributed outside your agency

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 67

29:

---

## Page 68

(

FD-362 (Rer-1-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/10/68

ME. CHARLIE QUITMAN STEPHENS

Lleutenant J. D. HAMBY, Homicide Bureau, Memphis Police

Department, and SA FRANKLIN L. JOHNSON:

Mr. STEPHENS, who stated he 1s 46 years of age,"

and his wife occupy 2 rooms in thr north wing of a rooming

house, the address of which 1s 422} S. Main Street. This

rooming house actually covera the second floor of 2

separate buildings, Mr. STEPHENS' room being located in the

north building in the southeast corner of the north building.

Sometime in the late afternoon of April 4, 1968,

he and his wife were in their roon. His wife, who has

recently been in the hospital for an extended period of

time, was in bed in their combination of living-bedroom.

He was in the kitchen, which is east of the living-bedroon.

He was repairing a radio on a table located at the north

wall of the kitchen.

Inmediately north of him 18 & common

bathroon which is located at the east end of an east-west

hallway in the north building.

Mhile he was repairing the

radio, he heard what he is certain was a shot, and he is

certain that shot came from the bathroom from a point

within just a few feet of where he mas sitting. He has so

way of knowing the time but can only estimate it was sometime

between 5:00 and 6:00 PM.

Upon hearing this shot, he walked out of the kitchen

through his l1ving-bedroon and opened the door leading onto

the hallway and observed a man running west dom this hallway

and this man was carrying a large bundle of some kind.

would estimate that this bundle or package was at least

3 or 4 feet long and 6 to 8 inches thick.

Although he saw the

man and the bundle only momentarily, he grinnd the impression

tbat the bundle was wrapped in sonothing, possibly a newspaper.

This man continued running to the end of

the hallway turning

deft (south) and apparently thereafter ran down the stairways

onto the street, although he could not actually see the man

going down the starvate

22

On

4/5/68

_at

Memphis, Tennessee

_File #

' HE 44-1987

by

SA FRANKLIN L. JOISON

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 68

it sable

Abba

_Date dictated

4/9/68

213

---

## Page 69

ME 44-1987

2

It innsdiately occurred to kir. STEPHENS that .

this was the sane man he had seen earlier in the afternoon,

possibly around uid-afternoon. standing at the door to

room 5-B which is located innediatoly nest of Mr.

STEPHENS & lving-bedroon.

He stated that around mid-

afternoon he had seen a man with Mrs. BREWER standing in the

hallway at the entrance to roon 5-B looking into room 5-B.

He saw the man's left side.

The man had nothing in his hands

at the time. He assuned this was some new guest looking

at a room.

Mr. STEPHENS stated that he and his wife remained

In their room the rest of the alternoon. He pointed out that

he, Mr. STEPHENS, in a disabled veteran who han been treated

for tuberculosis, and he spends most of his time in bls r00ms

with his wife who is also 111 and who at present 18 & bed

patient.

Sometime after seeing thisman with Mrs. BREMER, be

heard someone in room 5-8 and assuned the man hebad seen

had rented the room next door. He stated that he recalls

on several different occasions hearing footsteps in this room

and also leaving fron this room past his (HT. STEPHENS'S)

room and into the connon bathroon at tha east end of the

hall. He was also very nuch aware that when the person went

tron roon 5-B to the bathroom, that person remained in the bath-

room for a considerablo period of time.

He pointed out that

this 18 particularly noticeable sinco this is a common bathroon

which must be used by a number of different tenants.

He

also specifically recalled that only on one occasion did

he hear the commode being flushed and he was therefore curious

as to why this person mas spending so much time in' the bathroon.

He stated that on the last occasion that someone

went Iron nuaber 5-B to the bathroom prior to the time he

heard the shot, he would estimate that that person remained

1n the bathroon for at least 20 to 30 minutes.

During

this perlod he heard no noises coming from the bathroom.

He also specifically recalls that during this same perlod,

MT. MILLIS ANCHUN (phonetle), tho occupies room 4-B, immedi-

ately west of 5-B where the new tenant apparently was, located,

23

21.1

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 69

---

## Page 70

(

1.*.

HE 44-1987

3

had knocked on Mr. STEPHENS's door and somewhat angrily

Inquired as to who was staying in the

bathroon so long.

It was at the end of this latter period of tine

that Mr. STAPHENS heard the above described shot which he

was certain came fron the bathroon: Ha stated that iomediately

after the shot was fired he heard some people located across

the street, east of the building where he lives, screaming.

Due to the excitement of the moment, the lact that people

across the street in the vicinity of the Lorraine Hotel

were screaning, and the fact that his hearing is not the

best, he did not hear any additional noises coning from the

bathroon. He pointed out that he would expect to near a

cannot recall hearing guch a "scuffle." He stated that he

'almply has no way of knowing whether the man cane out of the

bathroon, went into room 5-B and then ran out of 5-B down

the hall tonard the front of the building, or whether the nan

In the bathroom ran directly from the bathroom down the

hallway toward the front of the building.

He stated he did

hesitate a lew moments alter hearing the shot and herring the

screaming outside before he went to the door and looked donn

the hall to see the nan running carrying something in his hand.

. *

MT. STEPHENS advised that the only people in the

north building of this rooming house at the time of this

who was in bed and who was never in a position to observe

anything, (3) HI. HILLIS ANCHutZ (phonetic), above, in room

4-B, who came out of his roon and was seen by Mr. stephens

at the same time Mr. STEPHENS saw the man running down the

hall, (4) Mrs. JESSIR, JFT "'TTER, & deaf and dumb lady who ro-

aides in roon 1-B towars the lyunt (west) of the north wing

or north building, and (5) the unknown man who had occupied

room S-B who was running down the hall as previously stated

HS. STEPHENS stated that Mr. ANCHULI made sOmo remark

to the unknown man who was running down the hallway and the

unknown man apparently made sone kind of reply.

24

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 70

215

---

## Page 71

HE 44-1987

Mr. STEPHENS advised that whereas he could hear

footsteps in 5-B and could hear footsteps between 5-B and the

bathroom, he

at no time heard any conversation in 5-B,

and he is certain that there was no conversation in 5-B

from the time the new tenant checked In until the

timo

he heard the shot. He stated he never heard any noise or

footsteps which would indicate to him there was ever more

than one person in room 5-B.

He pointed out that whereas

his hearing is not too good, it is very easy to hear noises

In the adjoining rooms of this rooming house and he definitely

can hear normal conversation coming from that room. ur.

STEPHENS stated that when he saw the new tenant with Hrs.

BREWER standing in front of 5-B, he only saw the left side

of the new tenant, and when he saw what he believes to be the

same man running down the hallway carrying something, he only

saw this person from the rear.

He pointed out he never saw

him directly in front, but based upon his observations he

would describe this person as follows:

Name:

Unknown

Race:

White

SeX:

Male

Age:

"In bis 30's."

Height:

5' 10-11"

Weight:

,165 pounds

Build:

Average

Posture:

Nan stood erectly

Hair:

Described as sandy, also

described as "dark blond"

o having the appearance of

unwashed sand.

Further described hirline

as receding on left side

(and presumably on both sides)

making it appear he would have

"praks" on either side but

with full thick hair toward

the front center of his head

botteen the peaks.

Hair

combed straight back.

Normal

or average haircut.

25

216

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 71

---

## Page 72

....

HE 44-1987

Dress:

General Appearance:

Bare headed, wearing dark

suit

Clean shaven, neat appearing

Individual.

26

217

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 72

---

## Page 73

FD-302

PRev

4015064}

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date -

4/7/68

CHARLES STEPHENS, Apartment 6B, 4223 South Main

Street, Memphis, advised that on the afternoon of April 4,

1968, he was with his wife at the above address.. He stated

that at about 3:30 p.m., on the above date, he began working

on a table model radio of his which was in need of repair.

He said he took a radio to the kitchen and placed it on the

table which was against the wall that was adjacent to the

bathroom which was used by all tenants on his floor. As he.

was working on his radio he could hear the man in the next

apartment to him, Apartment 5B, leave his room several times

and go into the bathroon.

MI. STEPHENS stated that he knew

It was the man who had just checked in to Apartment 5B that

afternoon because he could hear the door of Apartment 5B

open and then footsteps would go down the hall to the bathroon,

the bathroom door would open and then close. .

MI. STEPHENS said that during these various trips that

the individual in Apartment 5B made to the bathroom he failed

to flush the toilet of to run any water with the exception of

the last time he was in the bathroom.

At this time he flushed

the toilet.

He stated that this individual seemed to be spending

an undue

length of time in this bathroon.

At about 6:00 p.u.,

on April 4, 1968, MI. STEPHENS heard a loud noise which he described

as sounding like a gunshot come from the bathroon. Upon hearing

this noise, MI. STEPHENS tan from the kitchen where he was repairing

his radio to his door that led to the hallway. He stated this is

Upon opening the door

he saw & man leave the bathroon carrying a package of about three

feet long and wrapped in what appeared to be newspaper. He saw

the man run down the hall and then turn left as if he were trying

to leave the apartment building. As this was happening WILLIE

i ANSCHUTZ, who lived in Apartment 4B, came out of his apartment

and went to the bathroom. ANSCHUIZ then told STEPHENS to look out

of his window. STEPHENS

said that he then looked out of his

kitchen window which faced the Lorraine Hotel and saw a lot of

policemen scurtying about and people running screaming in the

vicinity of the hotel.

27°

On 4/5/68

-at Memphise Tennessee

_File #

ME 44-1987

SA JOHN W. BAUER

bISA_ STEPHEN Me DARLINGTON JWB:raj

- Date dictaled -

4/5/68

mis documert containe seither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the properts of the FBI and is loaned !

I bode4200 as eidortage did not to be distribuled outside your axency.

.% .

218

---

## Page 74

(

MP. 44-1987

2

Mr. STEPHENS stated that the men who was in

Apartment 5B had 'checked in about 3:00 or 3:30 p.I. on

Apr1l 4, 1968.

He stated he was

sure of this because he had

heard the landlady showing him the apartment at that time.

stated he glanced out of his dodr and got a fajris

good look at

the man who he described as being a white male; 5° 10-11";

weighing 165 pounds; slender build; ruddy complexion; sandy

hair; had a long, sharp pointed nose; wearing what appeared to

be a dark blue or black suit, thite shirt and dark tie.

Mr. STEPHENS stated that the man who he saw running

out of the bathroon closely resembled the man who had checked

into Apartment 5B.

He said he could only see the man who ran

fron the bathroon from behind, but his general build, hair

coloring and clothes were the game as the individual in

Apartment 5B.

Mr. STEPHENS described the individual he san running

out of the bathroon as follows:

RACe

White

Sex

Hale

Height

5°10-21°

Height

165

Bulld

Slender

Complexion

Ruddy

Hair

sandy, slightly on dark side

Clothing

Hearing dark suit

Mr. STEPHENS added that he had never net the man who

checked into Apartment 5B, talked to him, or knew his name.

-*

28

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 74

---

## Page 75

:

FD-302 (Ror-4-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/7/68

Mrs. PEGGY BURNS, 4802 Rickard, telephone number

397-0033, advised she 18 employed as a saleslady at the

Oliver Rexall Drugstore In Whitehaven.

Mrs. BURNS stated that

which was In a

on April 3, 1968.

She stated that this shaving kit contained

a galety razor, shaving lotion, shaving cream, hair tonic,

and deodorant, which is all manufactured by the Gillette Company,

and was In a

clear plastic container, approximately four Inches

by six inches.

Mrs. BURNS recalled that a white man came into the

Oliver Rexall Drugstore shortly before noon, April 3, 1968, and

asked her for a razor.

She sald she pointed out where the

razors were located in her store, and directed him to that area

of the store.

She advised the white man walked down to this

area, and picked out the Gillette shaving kit, and brought it

to the cash register, where she was located.

Mrs. BURNS said

she could not recall any other items which the white man

purchased in her store. She could not recall how he paid for

this purchase, and did

not recall anything he said while he mag

paying for the 1ten.

Mrs. BURNS stated that she got the impression from the

white man's activities that he was a stranger in the area, and

she sald she does not believe he has ever been in her store before.

She said she is sure that she has never seen him prior to the

time he approached her, and she furnished the following description

for him:

Race:

Age:

Height:

Weight:

Hatr:

Eyes:

White

45

5'7"

165 pounds

Black - could not recall how

he combed it or anything

further

about his hair

Color unknown

On

4/4/68

_at

• 126.

Memphis, Tennessee

_File #

-Date dictated

44-1987

'4/6/68

=

31*Y

---

## Page 76

FD-302 (Rer

3-B4)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

Apx1] 8e 2968

MI'S.

BESSIE RUTH BREWER,

Resident Manager, rooming

house located at 422, South Main Street, Memphis,

Tennessee,

was interviewed at Central Police Headquarters,

Memphis,

Tennessee, Police Department,:

at which time she furnished

the following information:

Between 3:00 P.M. and 3:30 P.M. On April 4, 1968,

a white male knocked on the

replied yes, and this individual then asked if he could see

It. Mrs, BREWER showed him Room No. 8;

which is located In

the southwest part of the bullding,

the individual put his

head into the doorway and after looking; stated that this.

would not be satistactory as he dio not need a stove and

refrigerator but only wanted a sleeping room.

'MrS." BREHER

then showed this individual Room 5-B;'and he put his head in

the doorway of this room and said it, would be fine. At this

point the Individual asked where the

bathroon facilities were

located, and she pointed to the bathroom located in the: '

northeast portion of the hallway which is located in the, same

hallway as Roos 5-B. She and this individual then returned

to her office.. The Individual stated that his name was

„JOHN

KILLARD and that he wanted a sleeping room for one week.

. =

.", i.

'*".

1. =

HILLARD then

asked' her how

much the"

room rent would

be for one week, and sirs, BREWER replied $8.50, MILLARD then

put his hand into his right trouser, pocket and withdrew a

twenty dollar bill and two quarters and'handed the money .to..

her.

She gave him change in denominations of one ten dollar

bill and two one dollar bills. 'When' HILLARD arrived at the

rooming house, urs. BREWER did not notice any luggage in, his

possession, nor during the brief conversation with WILLARD

did he volunteer any information concerning his home residence?

Ilne of business, or node of transportation.. HILLARD was not

required to 51gn

any

type of register; and the

only written

record maintained of the transaction was 'a

receipt for the

$8,50, which was made out in the handwriting of Mrs. BREWER.

.

Mrs, BREWER was unable to state if WILLARD returned

On

4/5/68

at

Memphis, Tennessee

SA ROBERT F. BOYLE: Jap

by

sandlesi

JEREIN

212.2

File A - Memphis 11-1987

4/8/68

_ Date dictaled #

is of the FBI. It is the property of the FBl and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 76

---

## Page 77

ME 44-1987

2

to Roon 5-B or if he left the butiding at any time after

renting Room 5-B.

Birs, BREWER did not again observe HILLARD

after he rented, the.room.

MIB. BREHER's husband returned home from work at

5:25 P,M; On April 4, 1968, 'and at that time hir.

and Mrs.

BRENOR

commenced their dinner.

After dinner. Mr. BREWER "

then turned on the

television set and was wätching the

"Rawhide" television program,

dinner dishes.

Shorty a com Met a the dander dishes,

Urs. BREMER also sat down to watch the "Rawhide" television

program. Within a matter of a couple of minutes; Mrs, BREWER

heard what she'thought to be a gun shot coming fron the back

of her rooming house.

Mrs. BREWER belleved that this must

have been around 6:00 P.M. on Anrtl'1,, 1968.:

She advised

her husband that she thought

It was a gun shot. Her husband

took time to put on his slippers and both of them then

proceeded to the southeast exit of the building:

Upon"

arriving at this point, Mr. BREHER attempted to go out the

back door; however, a law enforcement officer was in the back

of the building and instructed both Mr.. and airs. BREHER to

close the door and return to their apartment..

"Mrs. BREWER

did not hear any notse such as someone running through her

building alter hearing the gun shot, and the only noise she

could recall hearing was a lot of hollering and screaming

near the back of her building toward the Lorraine hotel.

ATE. BREWER exanined cash that she had on hand

and determined that she had three $20,00 uills 'in her

possession, She was unable to specifically pinpoint which

@20.00 bill was furnished to her oy liblaRd for payment. or

his roos rent.

-.

-**

Series 1963-A, Serial

No. F14002844A

• (2)

(3)

Sertes 1963-A, Serial No. 116164663A

Serdes 1963, Serial No. F06445143A

'Mrs. BREWER furnished the

Of HILLARD:

following description

Race:

• Sex:

Age:

White

Male.

Approximately 35 years

10'

201

-NU 55994 Joelda

1731-Page 77-

---

## Page 78

ME

44-1987

3

Height:

Height:

Build:

Appearance:

5' Ï1" to 68"

180 pounds

Medium (carried weight well)

Real neat looking, clean

shaven.

Mrs. BREWER etated that, WILLARD appeared to have a

smile or a sneer.on his face during their entire conversation;

have to pull the jacket back when he reached his right

or whether he had on a tie, but was ape pandele need be

did not have a hat; did not give the

a haircut, nor was he wearing a mustache or any long sideburns;

paid no particular attention to his teeth while he was talking

and did not particularly notice about

any part of his face,

including nose, nouth, ears, chin, or eyebrows.

Mrs. BREWER claims that she did not particularly

100k at this individual as she did not like the smile or

sneer that he had on his face.

Mrs. BREYER did recall that when she pointed out

the bathroon facilities to KILLAPD, sire told him that everjone

In the area of his room was sually quiet but that the guy next

to him usually drinks, a little bit. Mrs. BREWER claimed that

Mrs, BREWER claimed that she, told him that was all right as

Jong as he stayed, in his room and kept quiet.

Mrs, BREHER was' unable to state whether any of the

other roomers at her rooming house. had an opportunity to

either observe or have any contact with HILLARD, 'nor was she

able to furnish any additional information concerning

WILLARD's activities during the brief period that he.

_resided

at her rooming house.

She claims that she does not beljeve

that she rould recognize this individual again from a

photograph or if she had an opportunity to see him in

person,

but qualified this by stating that she provably would be

able to recognize him from the smile or sneer that he had on

his face if she were able to observe that in the future.

1: • 11

202

NiV 63994-Dotld:32989731-Page 78

---

## Page 79

ME 44-1987

She claimed that

WILLARD did not volunteer any

information concerning his

personal background or volunteer

any information concerning his reason for being in Memphis.

She clated that WILLARD's speech was "just like the rest

of us around here;" and that his vocabulary' and accent' were

not out of place in her rooning house..

urs. BREWER recalled

that when WILLARD first looked, In Room 8, 'he

remarked

that

he only wanted a sleeping roon as he would not be in the

room in the daytime, just at night.

, in

12

..

203

NW 65994 Docld:32989731. Page 79'

---

## Page 80

FD.302 8R

4015084)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dale:

4/13/68

MrS. FRANK (BESSIE) BREWER;:

Roon 2, 4224 South Main

street,

semphis, Tennesses, tho inages the rooming house at

this address and who has been interviewed previously by Agents

of the FBI, telephonically contacted the FBI Office on April 10,

1968, at thich time she requested to be contacted by an FBI Agent.

MrS. BREWER was contacted by SA: FRANKLIN I: "JOHNSON

and Lieutenant W. S. SCHUlt, Fonicide Bureau, Lemphis"Police

advised thet she ras beginning to

Nagara Falls, New York; 1n

which was

Identllying Hrs, BREWER as operating'& "flop house," the writer

or the letter referring to the fact that Mrs. BREWER' should

"buy some paint" and ending by stating;

cockroaches!";

' "I!al bet you even have

A second envelope was postarked April 7, 1968, at

Des Moines, Iowa, which contained a printed religious tract

and neither the envelope nor the tract identified the sender.

On the occasion of this contact with Mrs: BREWER,

she furnished the following information:

She stated she wanted to point out that she

has previously forgotten to advire officers

Police Department and FBI, Agents that

rented Room 5-B to a stranger using the name' of, JOHN

WILLARD on April 4, 1958, there Fag & snall; cheap

chest of drawers, blond la color, in front: of the east

windoy on the south fall of roon 5-B, whereas alter the

shooting of Dr. 'KING and then she next saw Room. 5-s,

that chest of draters us sitting against

the Rest wall

of that roon and there tas a chalr sitting in front of

÷ I3

4/10/68

On

at

Memphis, Tenze

-file #

Herphis 44-1987

by

SA FRANKLIN L. JOUNSOM:78I

- Date dictaled -

:4/12/68

Mw i dead see page 86 to be one a bu a so eat, " la the property of the Fl and is lonedro

203

---

## Page 81

ME 44-1987

2

that Findow.

She stated she was pointing this out since

this would indicate. that the occupant of the room

definitely handled this chest of drafers."

MrS. BREVPR stated that since intervieved

previously, she had been

trying to think of anything

else which

night assist in identifying the guest who

used the name of JOHN HILLARD:: She stated as she has

discussed the matter with her. husband and thought more

about it, the one thing which impressed her most about .

the appearance of this individual was the fact that when'

she first cracked open the door to her roon after this

man knocked, she observed that he was standing at the

door with an unusual smile on his face.

she pont on to

state that she would describe the smilo as á "sneer! ol

a "smirk." She stated that she

cannot be more specific

other than to state that she

was inpressed by this

expression on this

san's face, as though he vere trying

to smile for no reason.

She stated that she did not

Interpret the snile as

an effort to he:flirtatious.

. *

':

She also stated that her initial impression

of this man was that he did not "fit in" ith other..

tenants In this rowing house.

She pointed out that

this

rosming house is located' in a poorer section of town

0r others

and this ran was clean ind neatly dressed, giving the

Impression that he could obtnin lodging in nicer

surroundings.

Mrs.

BREMER at this, tige attenpted to recall

the words used by this perion.

As she recasis,.

then :she

went to the door and cracked open tha door, leaving the

chain fastened, the nan's first fords were,. "Do you, have

a room for rent?"

a so him nether she also a by de ratore the

north. He replied, 'as nearly as she can recall, by

stating simply, "By the week."

At this point she

unfastened the chain which secured the partially opened

door and ralked directly to foon 8 located In the south

wing of this rooming house. She stated that the man

folloved her to the roon and looked inside the room but

never actually entered the room, at shich tine his words,

:14

205

NW 65994 Docid:32989731 Page 81

---

## Page 82

УЕ. 44-1987

3

as nearly as she can recall, vera,

"Hell,"I don't

need the

stove and refrigerator since I non't be doing any cooking:

I was thinking nore of a 'sleeping room."

At this nolnt irs. BRETER explained that the

only vacant "sleeping roon". (or roon with no stove and

refrigerator) which she had in either wing of the :

rooming house was Roon 5-B in the north wing. she.

therefore Inmediately walked from Roon 8 In; the south

wing across the enclosed walkuay which

connects

the

south wing to the north wing of the rooming house,

and thereafter to Roos 5-B. : Again

She then walked to her roon in the south wing of the

building, followed by the unknown man, who pald her

$8.50, as outlined previously by her, for the rent of

Room 5-8 for one week in advance.

•"""

IF . BREHER stated that rost of the rooms'in

this rooming house can be secured only with the use of a

padlock, and after shoring this indlvidual Room 5-B; she

removed the padlock from the door and took the padlock

with her to her. room.

She stated.it is necessary that

tenants put. up a deposit if they secure the padlock, but

this tenant did not irguire as to how he could lock the.

door and did not request the padlock and a key.: She also

added that she did not explain to hin the nethod of

a cast en owes tatates easy that he put up

padlock.

She stated at this point that' she had been

sonewhat unnerved when she first looked at this man, at

which tine he had the unusual snile on his face, or,

appeared to be. "sneering" at her;

and thereafter.

she made

a point of having as little to do with him

always walking In trent of hin ard avolding alfossible,

unnecessary conversation or dealings with him.

• MIS. BRETER was asked whether she now feels.

that she. could identify this man il she sees him again.

She stated that she thought the night be able to identify

this man if she sees hin again. she stated the man used

no slang or unusual expressions and she could not associate

his accent with any particular aron, adding

• he had no

particular accent.

15

3

206

"?.

NVC 65994-_Docld:32989731 Page 82

• ..

---

## Page 83

DE: 44-1987

She also stated that sir is positive she has

, never seen this nan' before.

She printed out that she has

only been handling, the rental of thé toons at this

sanever,

' and "she

stayed at this

rooming house prior to that tire.

She stated that at the tine sho bécara the

landlady at this rooming house; Roma 5-3 Has occupied

by an elderly man by the nine of COWODORE, STEWART:

This nan was 111 as of arch 12; 1968, and she believed

that it was on March 14, 1968, that he ns taken to a.

Memphis hospital. 'Ä

coupla of days. later; probably on

either March 13 or 14, 1968; this man died. The room

had not been rented fron that time until the time. the

stranger using the lans ol dom illanu rented. this room..

She understands that a nunber of different

persons have acted in tha caracity.of. rental agent for

this rooming house in recent ninths, including u.:

WYATT MADDOX,

the is non a clerk at thie.

'Tri-state Hotel

located nearby, Mr. HADDOX, never having lived in this

rooming house,

herevex, and apparently having acted as

rental agent for only a shurt pexiod of time.

Another

individual who bandled, the rental'os roors in this.

rooning house waS H. R. THUMPION,

an old drunk; according

to other tenants, who never Ilved lu the reoming house.

One other rental agent st this roonlig house prior: to

the tibe urs: BREWER assured theis duttes ras !. V:

her receipt book She recalled that it. sakucks stabbed

his wite while he as rental

agent at this roomiag house

and

the matter received publicity..

= -*

MIS. PRERE? advired that sost of the cocupants.

of rooma in this

LOONILE DOUSE dIE DULEON lons permanent

SEnantE, EithOUgh +4E 08xs 0062:3104311} l'ent & sacan-

room to

transients 10x 001y cne ght.

MrS. BREaIR adulsed that there' sre 10 reparate

apartments or roong in the south wing of this rooming

"risse and six'

separate 4y051r7ts 05.500a5 in the sorth

The six rooms in the worth zing are réferred to as

1-B,

2-B, ets., thereas the rens 24 the south wirg lave

: 3.5

207

14 65994 Docid: 3298731 Page 85

---

## Page 84

E 44-1987

5

no letter of the alphant toileting the rou number.

She turnished the tollowing intosnation.concerning the

status of these rochs as of. April 4, 1958; when tha war:

using the name Jol HIllARd checked iuto Room 5-B::

SOUTH HING:

"=*

(Roons are numbezed in

cointer-clockalse order,

starting with Roon No. 1'in the southwest coruer of

this ming of the roosing house.)

Roch I - Vacant

Room 2 - Occupied by uri.

aud. 4r5: BRESER and

referred to as

the

"otfice.

ROOM

3 - occupied by Mi..

BERTIE I. REEVES, An

elderly san the is retlied ard who rupears

to be ressunably responsible.

she stated

that ME. REEVES CArE

out of kis' room about

the

"and' Krs. RefER after

heard what they believed to be a shot

about 6:00 p.R., 'April"1, 1908.

Roon 4 - Occupied by HOWARD VANSE, as older ran, .

chong on teamed worke but and an

of April 4, 1968, pas Khong kŸ. Mes: BREWER

to have been drunk fór tro days:" Mrs:

BREHER stated she. Knew that VANCE sas 2n

his room as of 6:00 pom.; April 4; 1968,

but

1he also knew that he had,been on'?

teo-day drunk and that he'did not come;

out of his roon.

Room 5 - Occupied by f. Ir.

"FISSER, a san 75

. to 80

years of age, sho has been ill recently,

Whose heating is very detective, am who

sas in his room ss of the tire of the.

shooting•.

Nrs. bREfER added, honeyer,

that due to be. MESSER's age and his

physical and menial condition, Me. HESSER

still does not undestand that actually

occurred sad contiouts to ask what all the

excitement tan about then police officers

ard FIl Agents questioned eccurants of

the

bis1lding..

• 17

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 84

208

---

## Page 85

XS 44-1987

6

.;.

.c.?

Roon 6 - Vacant.

Mon by the

MINe oI sANVEL FILSON,

who she underatsuda had been a tenant for

several months, vacated this roos on

Apr2] 3,;:1968.

an elderly

also drunk and in his roon as of the tire

of the shooting.

She stated that MARIoX

did not cons out of his roos around the

• time of, the shooting.

'."

Roon 8 - Vacant.

: 1.

(This 1s, the roon which Mrs.

BREtER first shoned to the man using the

DAME JOHN RILLARD.) :

Room 9 - Occupied by HAROLD) CARTER, a han 55 to

60

years of age, unexployed, who receives

welfare chocks and sho bas a:physical:

affliction.

She stated one of his hands

18 deformad or "drain, up."). She stated

this man also drinka considerably.. She

does not bellove he was hone at the time

of the shooting.

Roon 10 - Occupied by LEONARD MATON, agë 60 to 65,

who she underatands to be a loug-time.

it is her impression that he mas in his

roon asleep at the time of the shooting;

and that he

• too had been drinking.

FORTH HING:

(Rooms on north ming are

nushered 1-8 through 6-3,

reading fron west to eust.

Those doors having numbers

have numerals only; on then, but all of the tenants.

understand that the designation' of "B" refers to the

rooms in the north ring.)

Roon 1-B - (Intated rest of a north-south ballray

which cornacts to en enclosed talkray

connecting the two wings of the rooming

house) Decupied by ls. JESSIE I. LEUBEITER,

& #id0n tho she understaads has resided at

this address for soze 8 to 10 years.

MrS.

• LEDHETTER: 1E

418

209

NW 65994 Docid:32989731 Page 85

---

## Page 86

: 44-1987

Room 2-B - Vacant.

Room 3-B - Vacant:

Room 4-B - Occupied by WILLIS ANCHUTZ, employed at'

Duvall Transfer Conrany.. Mrs: BREMER

later learned that Mr. ANCHUTZ.

reportedly saw the

man running down the

hall following the shooting and had some

conversation with his.:

Room 5-B - Roon occupied by the nan using name

JOHA WILIARD and wnich room had

been rented sirce former, tenant

COMPADORE STEWART, died about March 13

OX 14, 1968.

Roon 6-8 - Occupied by sr. and MiS.. CHARLIE STEPHENS.

•Mr. STEPHaNS is an unemployed tuberculosis

patient and his wife is presently confined

¡to her bed.

19

210

NW 65994 Docld:32989731. Page 86

---

## Page 87

FALTIÁ E, PALANTROY, D.C.

i do 0000, corn

LOLAS STONES, ONDO, CLUMANN O

SANVEL & DEVINE, ONTO

STEMART B, MC MUNEY, CONN

милого 8, влится, мине

плохо в.

погодни

то кочка

Silect Commitice on Assassinations

F1.50. Mouse of Representatibes

ESI MOUSE OFFICE DULDING, NAVEX 2

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20915

August 8, 1978

Receivid ferre

Keach $18/73,

trotumed oug.

HiM 8/10/98

GRB: jwc

Enclosures

The Honorable Griffin B. Bell

Attorney General of the

United States

Department of Justice

washington, D.C. 20530

Attention:

Mr. Robert I. Keuch

Deputy Assistant Attorney General

Criminal Division

Room 2113

Department of Justice

Deax Mr. Attorney General:

In connection with the investigation of the House

Select Committee on Assassinations into the death of

DI. Martin Luther King, JI., I have enclosed, pursuant to

the agreement we have with the Department of

Justice, those

materials which we may refer to and consequently make public

during our public hearings scheduled for the week of August 14 -

August 19, 1978.

We would appreciate it if you would inform

us by this Friday if you have any objection to the release

of any of this information.

I assume much of it has been

released under the Freedom of Information Act, but we do

not have a document-by-document list of that

which has been released.

information

Thank you for your continuing cooperation.

Sincerely,

A. Rolax Blaby

G. Robert Blakey

Chief Counsel and Director

NUr To 104

---

## Page 88

BH 44-1740

.. PURCHASE OF 1966 WHITE MUSTANG THO-DOOR

BY ERIC S. GALT,

2608 HIGHLAND AVENUE,

FROM OWNER, WILLIAM D. PAISLEY, ON

AUGUST 29 and 30. 1967.

ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED \

REIN IS UNCLASSAAIE

АтЕ в по ки ві катасти

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 88

48

---

## Page 89

9-902 (Revs4.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF 'INVESTIGATION

}

Date -

4/13/68

At 8:30 A.M., the records of the Jefferson County

Department of Revenue were examinod to determine the registered.

owner of, an automobile bearing 1968 Alabama tag no. 1-38993.

These records indicated that this tag was issued on October 2,

1967, 40 Mr. ERIC S. 'GALT, 2608 Highland Avenue, Birmingham,

Alabama, for a 1966

Mustang, two-door, eight cylinder, lehiclt

Idontification No. 6T07C190647.

This record also indicated

that this car bore a previous 1967 Alabama tag no. 1A-88354.

A check of the records concerning this number revealed that

this tumber was issued for the same automobile to a Mr.

WILLIAM D. PAISLEY, &

wet:

wich Birmingham, Alabana,

who bought this car from Maring Crawford Ford Company, Barmarghan,

or December 15, 1966.

This car had originally beer registere'

•by Maring Crawford Ford Confany: O0 March 11. 1966. as kavirg

been sold to MELViN k. HARVEY,'

mary Birmingham

The record Shows the car was transferred from HARVEY's name to

PAISLEY tO ERIC S.

Alabama,.

ore Aususi 30, 1967.

:

On

4/9/68

SA SI

_at Birmingham, Alabama

Tand

_File #

BH 44-1740

by

-Date dictated - 1/11/58

This document contains neither recoramendalions nor conclusions of theffley. It is the property of the F'Bl and is loaned in

your agency; it and its contents are not lo be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 89

---

## Page 90

50:302 8RgY: 1-15-61)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

•Date - April 9, 1968

WILLIAM D.

Birminghan,

LAshed tAs Following.

On August 29, 1967, a man later identified as ERIC

GALT came to the PAISLEY residence in a taxi cab. This man

apparently was the same man who had called earlier in the

day and talked to PAISLEY's wife about an ad the PAISi*s ris

placed in a local newspaper in an effort to sell their 1966

white Mustang. PAISLEY showed the automobile which ha- a

red interior to GALT and offered to let him test-driva thi

• car.

GALT refused to drive the car, saying he did not. havi

an Alabama drivers license, but he did have one in Lenisia!?.

PAISLEY then drove CALT around the area, and during this

drive picked up PAISLEY's son DAVID.

When they recurred to

the

DAISLEY residence,

GALT said "I'll take it off your

hands." GALT said he did not like the off-white colne af thi

car, but apparently was otherwise satisfied. CALT then suç-

gested that he give PAISLEY some earnest money, and ask.d! 1:

PAISLEY would drive GALT to

the downtown area

of Birmincher.

It was then agreed that they would meet the next day at

about 10:00 a.m. at the First National Bank to settle th

deal.

GALT told PAISLEY that he, GALT, had his bank nexri.:

at the Birmingham Trust National

Bank.

GALT asked FA"SIAY

how he wanted payment for the car, and PAISLEY sugarsted a

cashier's check. GALT said he did not know how to got a

cashier's check, and PAISLEY sald he would show him how thr

next day.

PAISLEY, accompanied by his son DAVID, then fuck

GALT to First Avenue and North 20th Street, where BAlt sot.

out of the car:

The next day PAISLEY received a telephone call fir.

GALT, who said he would meet him at the First National Bank

to settle the deal.

At about 10:15 a.n., they met in frogi

of the bank, and GALT took $2,000 cash out of his shirt

pocket and

save it to PAISLEY.

PAISLEY suggested they

inside the bank and count the money, which they did.

PA3S1.E5

deposited the money in the bank, and GALT went with PAISIt?'

son to a parking lot where he took possession of the car.

On .

4/9/68

SAS

and

_at

Birmingham,

Alabama

_File # _

BH 11-1710

50

-Date dictated

4/9/68

by

Thia document contaiss seitser recommendations sor conclusione of the FBl. It i8 the property of the FBl and is loaned lo

your agency, it and its contents are not to be dietributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 90

---

## Page 91

2

BH 44-1740

'PAISLEY recalls GALT mentioned that he worked on

a'barge line between New Orleans and St. Louds, and that hi

would work 20 days and then be off 10 days.

He recalled

and that his wife was. jw

Homewood, • Alabama.

PAISLEY described GALT as a white male, age abrat

32, five feet, ten and one-half inches tall, 160 to l65 pound:,

dark brown hair, neat-looking, neat dresser, quiet, acc-?

was not from the Alabama area.

Mr. PAISLEY said he did not believe he could dentify

GALT 1f he ever saw him again.

PAISLEY produced a bill of sale for this transactior

which shows the car was sold to ERIC GALT,

2608 Highland

Avenue, Birmingham,

Alabama, telephone 323-9487, for $1,295

on August 30, 1967.

der 3..1

in i

51.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 91

---

## Page 92

FD-302 (Rov, 8015-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date

4/12/68

WILLIAM DAVID'PAISLEY, JR.,

Birmingham, on April 9, 1968, furnished the following:

Sometime in late August, 1967, PAISLEY's father

had run an ad in

• the Sunday newspaper in an effort to sell

their 1966 white

two-door hardtop Mustang with

red interior

and whitewall tires. They advertised the car as being for

sale for $1,995.

A couple of days later, a man later identi

fied as ERIC GALT and PAISLEY's father picked up PAISLY at tre

home of one of his friends. PAISLEY'S father was driving tie

car and GALT was riding in

the front seat.

Thay drove arouid

the area for awhile and then returned to the PAISLEY resideser,

GALT did not ask any questions, look at the motor or in tha trik

of the car.

He said,

"I'll be

glad to take this car off your

hands." He then agreed to give PAISLEY's father a down fire:.

if Mr. PAISLEY would take GALT back to downtown Birmiugham. •

They then agreed to meet the next morning at the first Natioral

Bank to settle the deal, because PAISLEY's father has his offies

in that building and PAISLEY at the time was employod in ire

First National Bank.

Mr. PAISLEY suggested that GALT obtain a cashie:"=

check.

PAISLEY and his father then took GALT to first NeTH

North

and 20th Street, where he got out of the car.

That

evening, August 29, 1968, PAISLEY tried to call GALT al Its l0le

phone number GALT had left with PAISLEY'S father, PAISLEY

was unable to talk to GALT as he was not at the numbor calle

and PAISLEY learned this number was at a rooming house su lift.

land Avenue.

The next day PAISLEY's father received a relatie.

call from GALT who said he

the First National Bank at about 10:15 A.M.

They met, in forr?

of the bank at 10:15 A.M. and GALI produced S2,000 in cash.

mostly twenties, with some 100-dollar bills. They stepped

Inside the bank where the money was counted and GALT was

given a bill of sale.

On 4/9,10/68_at Birmingham, Alabama

•SAS

and

_File # -

BH 41=1710

by:

_Date dictated - 4/911/68

This document contains neither recommendations por conclusidas of the fBI, Il is lbe property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and ile contente are not to be distributed outside your as Rufte

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page'92

...

---

## Page 93

2

BH 44-1740

PAISLEY then took GALT to the parking lot where the

car was parked and showed him how to drive the car. He then

gave GALT the keys and GALT drove off.

DAVID PAISLEY recalled that he observed this same

'car for about six weeks after the sale, parked in front of

the rooming house in the 2600 block of Highland Avenue, but

that he had not seen this automobile since about the first oi

De observed t

He also recalled

flag thereon.

PAISLEY recalled GALT

saying that he worked on a

barge on the Mississippi River "out of St. Louis" to Now

Orleans.

He would work a month and then be off for tre wouks.

and that this was a lonely life. He also said he had saved

all his money from his job and would pay cash for the car.

PAISLEY also recalled that GALT was emphatic ahout.

not test driving the automobile, and said that his loussiana

license had expired and he had not obtained an Alabama dri':

license yet.

He also recalled GALT making a stalemont tha! li

did his banking at the Birmingham Trust National Bank, and

"I have my money there."

PAISLEY described GALT as a white male, 5'8'-84", agr 32.

tall, 145 pounds, dark brown or black hair with a

and cut short.

This person was not a smoker, was very riean.

cut, very shy and quiet.

He claimed he was divorced ars thal

his wife was presently living on Rocky Ridge or Dolly Rige

Road "over the mountain," referring to an area south of

Homewood, Alabama.

PAISLEY recalled this person had an accent

which was possibly Western, but was definitely not from tho

Alabama area.

PAISLEY also recalled this person saying he vas

unemployed at that time.

PAISLEY said he could definitely identity

this person if he ever saw him again.

53

NW 65994' Docld:32989731 Page 93

---

## Page 94

3

BH 44-1740

On April 10, 1968, DAVID PAISLEY observed ar

artist's conception of a person who had purchased a rifle

at Aeromarine supply, Birmingham, on March 29. 1968.

said this artist's conception did not resemble tRic Gali.

PAISLEY sald his father had told GALI durirg the

transaction that GALT would have to get insurance for the dust.

as the PAISLEYs would cancel their car insurance by calling

State Farm Insurance Company that day (August 30, 1963%,

PAISLEY recalled that GALT did not ask any questions or sa;

anything further about car insurance.

During his contacts with GALI,

PAISTlY said he

never detected the odor of alcohol on GALT nor did he cliserve

'GALI smoke cigarettes. PAISLEY said the ad for the automatici

had been run in the "Birmingham News" on Sunday. August di, i9.?

only.

PAlsuis recalled GALT, after inspecting PAISiLY's

Mustang, saying that this was the cleanest ond that Gilt

ta40011

He also

recalled GALT saying, "I've get my noney in the"yti.iir

Trust," and did not refer to

bank as the "BTib," airi l

commonly done by natives of Birmingham. In contertion 11l

GALT's divorced wife whom GALI Claimed was living on Pari:

Ridge Road or Dolly Ridge Road, "over the mountain,

"PAIST:"

recalls GALT saying; "Yeah, that's the way it goos."

PAISLEY said the price of $1,995 for the Mustang

was $300 too much, but this price was never questioned ly

GALT and this price did not seem to bother GAL'T in any say.

GALT said he had been saving his money and because he visic ...

a barge he had no place to spend it.

PAISLEY said he could not recall how GALT was diri, i

on August 29, 1967, but did believe that on August 30, 1967.

GALT was wearing a

sport coat, a dress shirt, will no

130..

open at the neck.

Prior to GALI's taking possession of the car on

August 30, 1967, PAISLEY'S father asked GALT HOw GALT HaS fur's:

to get his driver's license:

GALT ropliod that he harli

friend "over at the rooming

house," who would takr him to dim

'place where he could obtain a driver's license and change "ir

registration on the car.

• Yes di

54

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 94

---

## Page 95

BH 11-1740

DAVID FAISLEY recalled that during the monin lu six

woeks after the sale he had abserved this car parker on sumercus.

occasions in fiont of the snoming house in

the 2600 block at

Highland avenue.

He had noled that this car scemen to be dixit

fros non-ise, rather than from being drivon, and thal or the fail"

occasion of observing this car which would have been alsus tho

'irst of october. 1967, tho car still had the slick bal

tires that had boen on it whon

it was sold.

PAISLEY furnished the following dotailod description

of the automobile:

1966 white Mustang, two-door hardtop, eight

cylinder, 289, four individual rod plastic

floor mats, push button radia, boater, remoro

control outside mirror, day-night inside surror.

very clean engine, milcage 20.000 miles, coultjes

with Autolite battory, four whitcall, bald elves.

The

spare was in good

shape but had a wider visily

wall than the tires on the wools.

The seats

wore medium red in color and the carpoting ada

maroon or dark rus.

The body condition of the

car was excellont

and the nuffler was painles

shiny silver.

PAISLEY said that he had forgotten to advise oi.

April 9, 1968, that on April S, 1968, sometine belueen 1:00 P."

and 1:301.d.,

while driving oast on Fifth Avenue North, ir

Iront of the us. Post allico, Paish. ouserved a 1960 alai

white Mustang hardtop, which he

thought could possibly to 1t.

saue car he nad sold to chit.

He also, as Lil 5973 tirl,

observed the back of " kan getting into this car whose b9il)

resembled that of Gilt.

PAISLEY

said he could not be dudie:..

that this was the same car and that the individual was Gil?,

as he only had a fleeting flampse.

55

INW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 95

---

## Page 96

FEDERAL BUREAU CS INVESTIGATION

Dolo

4/211,10/63

CAMmy nado arallablo a record book maintainos

by him concorning porsons who rent rooma at both:10f and 113

Lath streot, i Do, rooding houses oporatod by his on a 10050

basis.

A lovion of this locord book falled to discloss any

rogistration in the nana Galf.

it should ba notcu this took

coninins only a rocord of icoseit for the pollod beginniny

January 1,1959.

Voon koing quostionad concorniug individuals ronting

at thoso adurousos who night havo chociod out prior to tio

complotion i tào prod lor than thoy bna paid, or ochers tho

for an toon night not ko recordog In this resord book,

Gun nanad, chong others, an advidual named B2ist 1aza

Uninori,, Clut.

on kainy quostionou concoming thus, to caid

this inuividuni vas tist goon ly him ca the nicornoon on

19x11 5, 1903,

hasnoon the hours of 5:00 end 6:00 10d. 13

calalral! theê anotion iconos, dead C. ¿Cias, sho cocupios

pa¿s ana cals indicatod to GARaB La vas intorested in overlaing

saving no such roos availasly, Gaiar

told GAll ho mould pui lia la docuia, at 207 - 1961 scree,:

WhiCh LOOn MAS a doublo 100n and tizt

ta vould ba roved to a

singio to0g no s002 as 0na tacora availablo. Gaval shiù ho

СHO-01-0 130 140 01 гоCгATOn SOC

rocallod), and chat tho cai

GAIT accopiod this arcergenont and paid Clior whilo

alisido the cuelliag and to colinvos ho Iccoivod a $10 c1a1

Tco cost of the x001 Mas 810.00-

Got Most and a Baso day coposite

DurirE tho CoLvOrsation,

GAIl Bedichtch ho Tao & valdos aud originally cone fion "tho

Carolinia.

1o chininod that ho had a toy tos a diazozont

sinto ca tho doid

leerico he bad loon voiiing la anothor surto.

On

1/21,15/58, At23n9a, G00rg12

47

Atlanta 11-2586

_File #.

1/76/03

it:

by-

_ Dote dictaled

thie documens contaras neishes recommendarions nor, conclusions of tha F8l, ll to the property ol the f81 and la looned to your agener:

# ond lie conienis are nollo be distribuled cuiside your agency.

ALL INFORMIATION CONTAINED

HEREIN IS UNCLASSIFIED

465991 Deal:32989731 Rage 96

DATE_

2201I0 B3D2ж

---

## Page 97

АТ 41-2386

At this point GARER indicatod that possibly the tag on the

Ford was a Tennessco

tag, but he vas not at all certain oi

this.

GARNER described GALiSas being a white nale, 32 - 35

years of age, 5' 11", 100 bomnds, dark brown or blaCK 172r

voin in a brush cut, 'blus cyos,

radium "ontroor" cciniexion

and having a southern accont:

le noied no distinguishing

foaturos or chrrecteristico and ind no recollection of riy

cing or ocher jovelry.

luis cross vas casual, apocilically

descrivod es a shirt and slrcis.

GALt noved into aoon #5 at 207 - 11th Sireei, &..,

where ho roanined until cunday, daril ?, lass.

On this day

CALE MAS NOVCO 10 HOOn 10 nE 210 - 14th Strone, 1.à.

Ci chis

occasion, Galish obscrved l'it' nove his pescossions and noted

that ho bad no luggege and all of his poscessions vere clühei

sovcd in a papei bag oi bo...

02 19091 в, 195й, лапоо во мілановів, ва СтукоуСо

the ilbert hick Hoeh, luch and saring scicots, Hono,

ras trongat to the ucoring house by Tan C. usuro,

. Tho is

Atontalano coloyod by this hotel, carch susigned Areesso

Hooa d at 113 - 21th street, 1.ao, and noted thai che

individual he lolioved do la Galt and Musicon becano irienaly.

On April 9, 2000,

at which tine CalI advised chanh that boch le and Ainunson

vere checling out.

He said both non sonorica to have lach

exinting.

buring the conversation, citt caviced de ana

recessa a colophone call tco. a triono in lichágan aud had leninou

thai velders loie rocciving'& highor hourly vage theic. for inis

rcason, lie ind riscideo to do in ilichigan to soci vori.

wo ves e notcl cloyce, annichico ho mes 50: to chigan

siti cali ana hosea to obirin canlorent ao a valder's holpoi.

GAmER recallod he rosundoù aproninatoly dar io embo, vag

had paid to wooi in auraice on recastorig on April %.

did not no! foi a romuna, authouga ho was paid througi ioxia il,

but dia recoivo the robuon ol his 1:50 doposit foi tho 10y.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 97

---

## Page 98

AT 44-2386

3

Therealtci, GARiTR accompanica GALI and AiDERSON tO AiDEnSO'S

roon wherc he secured the roon licys fro. both cAut and diDirson.

•At this tine ha noted sevaial boor bottlos in tho

presuned GALt and Albansor had been drinling toscundo and

GARNER,

did not notunlly observe tho departure of Gall and AiDERSON,

vut noted both were gone on the orning of April 10, 1908, z

nas the proviously-described block ford auto.

Gant made available the registiction for HAroLd G.

ANDERSON.

ALBERSOIL,

ahis yogistration does not reilock an audiess for

but indicates that has tacher 2s1

CARiZi crplained

that he almays attents to outrin the nano and cudress for a

acit of lin for his roo?0i's.

GArBen provided the following physical description

10. 10?

Race

Sex

White

112.10

40

Height

Weight

Mair

Complexion

Eyes

Distinguishing

Characteristics

DICSS

58 9"

155 - 100 pounds

Light broin, parted on sidc

ilodiun

Unknown

More noted

Casual, shirt and slacks

GATHER idontifiod other tennis sho resided at

113 - 14th Strcet, N.t., during the saue peried that GALt

1/25

a rooner chore.

GATHER said ho ves UnablO tO LOCall CALl's first

Dane, but suvisod he had o.no yod mail on the hall tale o

the rooning house ai 113 - 14th Sticet, M.F,, Wich unil vas

49

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 98

---

## Page 99

141-2386

addressod to GALI. At this point, GARith acconpanica the

Intorvicuang agents to 113 - leth strcet, dad, there it vas

obsorved that thore were tuo lottors and

a packago on the hall

table addressod to EnIC s. or t. GAlt.

The pacinge tas

postiarica 1/1/08, and the letters vere posterked 1/9 and

4/22/08.

#ino rasides in 1

Atlanta, had visita min on

citic Friday Or Dauday

night, Anxil 12 or 13, 1958. 1t

this tie his sicior lad thusted through the mail on the

tablo at the 213 - let Street address aid won noticing the

mail audrossed to mulc call, suo conented to Claian that

this sino the come nano as the individual to, according to

WISEN KIG, Ja.

CAtion strica that he did not 1001 ¿boic vas.

any likellhood tint the chur sho had stagod at 118 - lith Sixeet,

HaDo, was inautical tach

this suspect,

sting Many DeODle

havo the sago name.

Gardik stated that ho had neither soon not heard of

his rooming houro he san nothang to indicato tint Cal had

a connectin with my ocher dencht nù this rudioss piroi to

his arrival thore.. Gick jas asked whother is had rny

Caplanation Ioї to last that CHlt hod unil portunated 4/1/08

marched to hiu at 123 - 1t Beot, ..., mù accoming

to calizan, gall did not arive at this location until April 5,

1903.

Gall said he was unaile to expinin this, and haù no

idea how this could occur. :

GInneR tas also guestioned concerning the poseduility.

that cAll ot any other coonors had left micrial with hin in

storage or for salchooping.

He assured that this was not

so, Me did roport that licoas dis and i5 at 113 - 11tu Sereot,

1.Eo, bath of which it was noted vore fostchen vath neses

and padlocis, tao storage toons.

He staico they contalued

only linons aid possibly a lou lions of no valua loft bonind

brian!

: 50

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 99

---

## Page 100

AT 44-2386

With regard to Boon 15 at 107 - 11th Stroet,

1 Do, Garick said that this roos had not bag occubied by

anyone since CAit as transierred from this yoou on April i,

1958.

do noted, however, that the unid, priaY has ZACarY

or, her heiver, idchiity unimown, would have changed the shoots

In ROOM 1S RICI GALI WAS MOVeL.

Tith rogard to Moom iS ai 213 - 11th Sticet, 3.5.,

this roo. ronined vacant until

12213 13,

1033, Ten 12 Tes

yossett, Now

Yor!:. No rescribed OlEol

3 very young Man Tho 15 ayso

•employod ate

and who uns brought to the

rooming house by ra c. Jaes.

da said he does not bolieve

this roon vas nado up prior to his boing rontod to o'cone,

but adviced he hau eiven organity clonu sheats so that ho

could cunngo the linens hirscle.

baineon Gin and ochor 20chors at cithci of the r0o.liug

houses encont the associntion with innow G. dinsnoor, es

previously descriica.

In camlanacion sor the failure of the nano "GALI"

to appear on the nooning house records,

Geon said thirt ho

can only explain this by saying he received payroni for tho

roon thile anay iron the place where he mintains his records

and had invertently failed to record the nano when he returned

to his 1'00J.

The intervier of GAnsR concluded at 1:38 A1,

Apxil 15, 105S.

51

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 100

---

## Page 101

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dole_

4/10/63

DIrIDE thO INCIVION Of SISSIL DELTO! GALOR, he

asked the quostion, "Hon are you cosing on the KIng Du*&er?"

rond nuch concorning this aud ho stated ho had load quito

a bit in tho roarapois and soon a lot oi tolevision.

gaiter then indicated that ho know this was thy ve soro

askiDE about GALi'.

5.2

On

1/a,15/0a Atlanta, Georria

_FIle # Atlanta 11-2385

-4/10/03

by-

_ Dote dictated

Thos document conloins neither recommendations nor conclusionis ol the F8lall la she property of lne 881 and la loaned lo your oçurcy;

# and 11s conionis are nor to té distribulad outside your agaricy.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 101

---

## Page 102

FEDERAL BUREAU CF INVESTIGATIC

Da1d52'12 15, 1953"

At 2:30 a.M, JILLID DELICH GIRNER tolephonically

contreted the Atlanta Office of tie Federal Bureau oi

Investigition at thich time he provided the folloning

*

since gioviding the intonation concerning ERIC.

CALT during a rexconal intervien by agents, he has recheckod

his records anu uon balieves tat the indivlaual pos be a i

2hen as min acually men regisicsed at the rcouing house

under the nana of Tillin!!

Castonta, Marth

Сагоl1н.

canar said his records do not roficet the roos

nue to shich tus mas assigned but noted that the records

do shor 1as arrived Ayril 5, 1025, and raid taroligi A2511 12,

1993

yenting the roc

à supplicu the namel

Varies, ilichigan,

2.5

individal io lie notifica in cace of crergency.

Canana said

*:

accurate except tint ha non feels certain that MILLIng Inn's

recistantion periains to snic cile.

"".

Gia mao questioned as to how he detoriiined this:

mns nans to to dile soon the reginization tas in the raue

Of JES.

CArd aas nuable to cacistactorily caplain this

except to ony theù he fools that his concluded that Is vas

Gill then cabls'sister called his atcontion io tie 121.1

at the rooning house which vas circetod to tric chut.

53

-On

6/25/53

_ot.

Atlanta

44-3085

Thes document consoins

# ond irs contants are nol lo

sendations nor conclusions ol the E8lall is the properly el the FBl ond is looned to your ozeniy:

outside your agency,

INW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 102

---

## Page 103

50-392 (Rov, 8-13-81)

FEDERAL SUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dore D0r11 10, 1958

In response to a telephonic request received

at 9:31 a.n. Iron JUDIE DELIO GARER, he was inter-

¡viewed in front of his restaurant located at 1052

! Northside Drive, Northest, Atlanta, Gorgia.

! the conversation by stating

"Ice Is not Calt.

He then made avallabic the registration

records for his rooning house.

has again noted those

recorus rio not reflect a registracion in tha name of GaLl.

At the sane time, "Dric S. Calt:

hima produce an chael barn

the prahoad naus

aiRtin said this name

was printed thoreon by cli'd when Carien raquested his

full nade. Other handurlüten notations thereon were,

accordIng

• to choler, preparca vy nimseli.

carama stated thai subsequent to a pilor

intervian, ha had been coarching his records and his

memory and had not deterained that on march 24, 1930,

late 1n the evening. an Individual

apartmont door, Introjuced hirucif as li. GAit, and

requested a single roar.

1:2 8123

placed in hoos Nuaver 2, 113 14th Street,

small, was offoied

an adjoining storage roen in which

to place his surplus belongings.

At this point, CiT

renaried he woulù ba ablo to williac a dost in the storage

roon for his television set.

GARIER did not see call unloza his auionobile

or bring his possessions into the loom. He nest sa:

GAIt on ilarch 31, 1953, at which time the rent nas due end

GAUt made the staterant,

"I may as well pay you for anothar

This sas hatricen 1:00 and 2:30 p.u.

On April 5, 1933, CAniR chiered to roon as

approxtratoly 11:00 a.n. do change the linons. At this

tinee a roma a note on the bed mistton on a place of

ballaved by

to no a rum aire backings

which stated in effect "Jive hua to so to Eiruinghan.

I've left my ty set have and will try to rodern for lt in

0141/75/63.

_Fllo# Atlanta 411-2225

SA

and

is'f

11/25/53

_ Dote dictated.

This dosimeni centains neither recommendarions nor conclusions of the £8l. 11 ta die property of the 831 ond is loones la yo e

it and ils conlenis are nor lo do disiriduled ouisido your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 103

--

*9*"

---

## Page 104

АД 44-2385

1&

' about & neck. "

He does not rocall whether the note lias

printed or inition and destroyed it by throning it In

the trash lancalately.

GARLiER, deserlbed GAIT

as & uhlie arlo, 33 to 35

years of age, approiimately six leet tale, sichder bullu,

black hair, born vory short with possibly a part'on the

§1ãe.

GARNER haù previously noted Gild to de utilizing

a 11ght colored, possiuly mute, autonobile ud on tho

norning of April 15, 2533, telephonically coniacued Eir.

HAROLD rapt, Boon sunber 1, 107 len Street, Mortheast,

is cils auconnodde was parked near darene, so wnich

tine

no 33k03 sunris senerally lf no rosalleà the noke oi car

and latuls advised hid 16 nas a late model duatene,

poscibly 2000 or 1957.

cAitin estimated his toval contact tith Gile

on both occasions did not uneced one-hair rous.

on voch occasions Gul vei noculy arsesca in a dent sulu,

unite shiro, and tie. le chiracucilded him is Looklig

like a preacher.

This Inconsictencies in the Information previourly

furnishes by cher end tha loregond sere mioroughly

oscureau men min and he conle accrionde li only to

"being confused"

• in that ne had crocheously assochaced

the nine slis with the roader, much lob, about whoa

he had furnished the intormtion.

Aü this line, GAlNER made available a three page

manorandua in his handuriting nhich chronololcally scts

forth his association with dist. The envelope previously

referred to, ruanished by chiles,

on which cal wrote hls.

name, also contained the

alriorare lands of tork notablo: "Could do soveral

This note sas prepared by crand.

55.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 104

---

## Page 105

AT 44-2386

RUK:DJO

GARNER stated he made this notation during his initial

contact ulth GALt, at which time he asked his usual

questions of nen rooners about their Iine of work.

He

said ho Inadvertently failed to record

the infornation

on the envelope in his permanent recoras.

GArion added

chac at the side oi renting the roon, he received

11.00 key deposit fron GAl? and the key was left witr

the note on the bed by cali.

56

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 105

---

## Page 106

TWAVE HEY, TOOT

ant.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIO: 1

Dote_

A0r12 16, 1968

JIIRIE DELION GARLER waS Interviewed In the

office of the Federal Burcau of Investigation, 275 Peach-

tree Street, Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia, after voluntarily

accompanying SAs T

and a

Iron his

place of business, 1052 Morthside Drive, Horthest,

Atlanta, Ceorgia.

At this time, GARIaR stated that he was

aware of the discrepancies in the Information furnished by

him but insisted it was qua solely to the confusion snich

existed. in his mind in erroncously relating, the name

GALT with his roomer, HILLI IDE.

He stated he had no reason for telling the

Agents that he had no tous in ils possession which be-

longed to GAUs, when, in fact, he mes holding a television

set, oüher than the confusion

previously referrad to.

In determining the Indivlinals In each of the

roaning houses eeratod by hin 1207 14ch street, torcherse,

Atlanta, Georgia) sino may have been in a pcsition to

observe caut, he advisoù that at une time

f-FENCE 50

GAIl, there was no other occupant in this bullding.

He stated he had carsed 123 14th Streat on

February 11, 1933; aftor the naighborhood hippies aüte peed

to take it over.

He adnitted that he had to double roos

vacant at the tima Call coplied for a roon and that he

had previously ronted these for the price of a single

roon, but Gals Insisted on a single room, so he decided.

to open the ocher roching, nouse.

"He adaitted it cost

hia more to do this than he mould raceive initially in

ront, but that he had been planning to open it, as tha

other house was filling up.

5

7

4/25/68

SA

-o!.

Atlanta, Gorgia

and

Atlanta 44-2306

_FIle#.

1/15/53°

by-

_Dole dicroled.

This document concoins neither

recommendarions nor conclusions of the F81,11 78 de properly al the 891 and is Sooned lo neue capairi

"il and ils conienis are nollo be distributed aulside your agency.

• NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 106

---

## Page 107

AT 44-2386

RLK: DJC

GALT remained the sole occupant of this

building unill April 1, 1968, at which time

FrED C.

JONES mas placed in Roon Number 1.

GARNER soccifically donied that he had pre-

vously known GALt, that Gatt had been referies to hiu

by anyone, that he

has

acceples an extra anount of

•money fron diLt for any raason, -or that he had any

knotuge concerning his present whereabouts.

GinnER stated that he was born and raised in

Misogustrol, was a member of the

Eaptist Church, ans

was "not à Cornunist.

he denied having any kneledge

of the John siren or. other right ding orgenizatione,

stating he

had joined only one organization which nane

he could noù no recall, but described by hi as a.

civic organization.

is resternted that it had always been his

intention to cooperate with the f3I and that he had,

In fact,

that mornins siren the address and telephone

number of his restaurant to a rooner, ir. Bungess, merc

he could be roachad should GALt return for the telo-

vision set.

He stated ho did this so he could

Ianechately noülly the FBI of CAli's roturn.

58

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 107

farawat

mir

---

## Page 108

8D-302 (Rov, 8-15-81)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date ADUll E, 1908

MY. RALPH MEREDITH CARPENTER

Neaphis,

Tennessce, telephone

advised that heids a

salesman at tho York Arms Company located at

.162

south liain.'

strcot, Memphis.

Mr. CARPENTER recalls that yesterday;. Apr1l:4 1968,

he was in the above mentioned store talking to one of the

other salesmen in the store when an individunl'entered. and

suisequently bought from him a pair of Bushnell vinoculars.

this individual entered the store at about 1.00 in the.

alicinoon.

Mi. CARPENTER estimates this to be the correct

rine and,

in part, vases his estimate on the fact that,

there vere pickets parading in front of the store at that

N2. CARPENTER recalls" that'as this individual proceeded

further into the store he turned to this individual and asked

if he could be of assistance... The individual stated that he

viched to purchase some binoculars, and Mr. CARPENTER told

hit that he was about out of binoculars and belleved the:

maiy ones he had in stock were a pair sellingifor:$200 and

anotner paix sedling for ninety-some dollars.

The individual

states that he believed these were too high priced for him,

• and then IN. CARPeNteR recalled that there might be & cheaper

mar ox binoculars in the mindow and

advised the individual

tiit he vould sind out.

Mr. CARPENTER thereupon went to

the risplay window in the front of the store and determined.

inde incre vas on display a pair of Bushnell binoculars

#ONE fOr $39.95.

He bought those binoculars back to

lie: cuntomer and explained that they vere a Japanese

Import

si bettri quality.

The individual seemed to indicate that

he eithes recognized the name of that he agreed that there

weie sorc good Japanese imports.

The customer raised the

inoculars to his eyes and in sone manner, not now recallea

by tr. Carpenter, indicated that these binoculars wero.

acceptable. •

Mr. CARPENTER recalls that the customer asked 11

instructions were in the box, and Mr. CARPENTER advised him

that there vere instructions in the box, but

necacd to be known to operate the binoculars..

much was

other than' to

118

HEREIN IS UNCLASS S

On _1. /5/68

at

Nemphis

Tennessce

ла так:

-File # Memphis 44-1987

by

SA

-Date dictated

4/5/68

---

## Page 109

• -

ME 44-1987

2

just place them to the eyes and adjust the eye pieces.

Нг.

CARPENTER recalls that he wrote on the box in which he

placed the binoculars the price $39.95 and the amount of

tax which was $1.60 and

added the two figures for a total

of $41.55. He placed the sales slip and the box with the

binoculars in it in a gray paper bag which bears the name

of York Arms on Its side. The binoculars were in a leather

or similar type carrying case. The store does not record

or maintain serial numbers for these binoculars and it is

not known what, it any, serial number was on this particular

pair of binoculars.

Mx. CARPENTER stated that the binoculars were

Bushnell brand and were 7 by 35 size.

Mr. CARPENTER described the customer as follows:*

Race:

White

Sex:

Male

• Age:

.26 - 32 years

Height:

5 feet 11 inches

Weight:

160 pounds to 175 pounds

Hair:

Black or dark brown, neat,

combed straight back and not

parted.

It was neither very

long nor shaggy.

Eyes:

Color not recalled; no glasses

WOrn

Complexion:

Build:

Scars and marks:

Regional accent:

DresS:

Ruddy

Medium

None recalled

. None noticed

Dark suit, not known whether

or not pants matched coat, but

recalls pants did not contrast

with coat; color of shoes not

known but not in sharp contrast

to other clothing; no hat worn;

white shirt with noticeably wide

, space at the collar, neat looking;

dark tie with light

stripe which

covered entire tie, which was

tied in & long slender knot which

did not fill the space between

the collars; tie was noticeably

pulled to one side, not in keeping

with generally neat appearance of

customer; no jewelry remembered.

119

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 109

---

## Page 110

ME 44-1987

3

seTr

Facial characteristics:

1a.

Average tullness; nothing

regarding the eyes, nase,

ears or other features

noticeable. Customer'g

hands were neat, though

nothing outstanding was

noticed about then.

Mr.

CARPENTER recalls that the individual reached

Into his right front pants pocket to get the

. money with which

to pay for the binoculars.

The money was not in a billfold

or a money clip.

The customer withdrew two $20 bills from

a roll which contained several other bills, at least two of

which Mr. CARPENTER believes were $20 bills.

The customer

also took a $1.00 bill from this roll and then reached into

his other front pockot with his left hand and secured tho

quarters and a'nickel, making a total of $41.55 for the

payment. After purchasing the binoculars, the customer

walked from the store and Mr. CARPENTER told him to "hurry

back" or sone similar parting statement, and the customer's

reply is not recalled, if any was made. Mr. CARPENTER does

not know which direction the customer took after leaving the

store:

Mr. CARPENTER does not recall ever having seen

this individual before in the store or elsewhere, but feels

relatively certain that 11 he sees him again he would be

able to recognize him.

The customer, while in the store, did not ask to

see any other merchandise such as rifles or guns or '

ammunition of any kind, and made no inquiry at all concerning

any other merchandise.

Mr. CARPENTER stated that when the customer entered

the store CARPENTER was near the front of the store talking

to Mr. VERNON YORK. Further back in the storê"he believes".

CHARLES GIBSON was near the cash register, and Mr. HUGH

BADDLEY, & clerk, was also somewhere in the store. He believes

also that possibly Mr. CORDRA YORK, JR., may have been in

the store, but he does not know whether

or not any of these

individuals took notice of the customer.

120

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 110

---

## Page 111

FD-902 pRov

4015-641

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/16/68

SAC ROBERT G. JENSEN And SA

contacted

RALPH M. CARPENIER, an enployes of York Arms Company,

162 South

main street, denphis.

Ar. CARPENTER waS informed of

the identity

of SAC JENSEN and he has previously been interviewed by sA

He was told we had an additional group of photographs we would

11ke him to view.

He was told that no significance should be

attached to

the sequence or arrangerent the photographs might

be in when he saw them. These photographs were laid out, one

after another, on the second floor away fron bystanders and other

employeas in the York Arms Company.

CARPENTER spent at least twenty minutes reviowing

carefully each of the photographs. He expressed some hesitation".

for a time between a photograph of one

wear and the

photograph of FIC S. GALT.

No names and no identifying data

of any kind were furnished to CARPENIER in connection with his

study of these photographs. He did state in connection with a

photograph, ora

i reno that he

i that he thought this was a 'local lemphis boy

whom he might have seen. He turned this photograph over and did

reject the photograph as not being identical to the one to whom

he sold the binoculars.

He studied carefully for approximately five mInutes

the photograph of ERIC S. GALI and made contents concerning the

appearance of GALT. He stated the hair was generally similar

to the customer but thought it might be just a little bit longer

than when the custoner had been in the store on April 4. He also

said that he recalled the customer he waited on did not have

heavy, bushy eyebrows but they were nore like the eyebrows in the

photograph of CALT. He also stated he had no recollection of

seeing GALT's teeth and thought he had a smile when he waited on

CARPENTER also said he had no independent recollection of

GALT's ears appearing as they did in the photograph, but he then

He did furnish the

following statenent regarding his identification of the photograph

of ERIC S. GALT:

121

On

4/16/68

_at

Blempkiss Tennessee

117=1

_File # Hemphis 44-1987

SAC ROBERT G. JENSEN and

by - SA R

- Date dictated _ 4/16/68

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusione of the FBI. Il is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

NW 65994°D enc9 1"age, are not to be dietributed outsido your agency.

---

## Page 112

2

ME #44-1987

"Apr11 16, 1968

"On April 16, 1968, I, Ralph & Carpenter was shown a group

of 5 photographs by Special Agent in Charge Robert & Jensen

and Special Agent M

After careful study of

each of these pictures I placed my name on the back of the

picture which I feel most resenbled the man who bought a:

set of binoculars Irom ne on april,.

1968 at York Arms,

162 So, Main St., Memphis, lennessee.: I was not lurnished

any names or any descriptive data regarding any of the

photographs shown:

I was also told that no significance

should be attached to any sequence or arrangement that the

photographs were shown to me. I did turn one photograph

over as I thought 'I recognized this to be a local hemphig

boy.

I did hot however recognize him as the person to whom

I sold the binoculars.

"In choosing the photograph I was guided by my best recollec-

tion. I remember that the man who bought the binoculars

did not have heavy eyebrows and were about mediun like the

ones in the photograph selected by me. I did not sell any

other binoculars on April 4; 1968

"My signature attests that I am in agreement with:

the infornation set forth on page one and page two of this

statement.

/s/ Ralph H. Carpenter

Is/ Robert G Jensen

SAC, FBI, Kemphis

April 16, 1968

/s/

Special Agent FBI

April 16, 1968"

It should be noted that the name "ERIC S. GALT"

was not furnished to CARPENTER, noX. Mas he in a position to

read the name when he signed the back of the photograph; Hig

concluding remarks, which were made at approximately 11:20 a.u.,

4/16/68, were to the effect that, 'I don't own a suit.

suppose I will have to buy a suit so that I can go to court. "

.122

MIL 65994- Dockd:32989731 Page 112

---

## Page 113

1$D-3O2 (Re0-8-15-84)

, FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVES": GATION

Date

April 25, 1968

Photographs of JAMES EARL RAY taken 1955, 1960,

and 1966, and of the bedspread recovered at Memphis, April 4,

122 Soute shown to UrS. BESSIE RUTH BREWER, ROOm NO. She

South Main Street, Memphis, Tennessee.

She said

had looked at the bedspread on April 4, 1968, when it was

displayed to her after being recovered by the Memphis Police.

She said the bedspread did not come from her rooming house

and in fact she had never seen one like it before in her

life.

Mrs. BREWER said none of the men in the photographs

shown her were familiar to her.

She further advised that

she did not believe she would ricognize the man using the

name JOHN WILLARD if he were-to "walk up and say hello to

me right now." She said she did not look at the man

called WILLARD "squarely in the face" and as a result, does

not think she will be able to identify him.

D152 20116-

barbed'!.

Artl

On -

April 24, 1968 Memphis, Tennessee

-File #

Memphis 44-1987

SA

4/25/68

by

-Date dictated

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of tbe FBl.' It is the property of the FBl and in loaned to

your agency: it and its contents are not to be distributed outside. your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 113.

---

## Page 114

FD-302 (Rov.1015-61)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/10/68

1

Checker

Mr: CHARLIE QUITMAN STEPHENS, Room 6-B, second f100r,

422} S. Main Street.

furnished the following informatior

to

Homicide Bureau, _Memphis Police

Department, and SA

Mr. SEPHENS, who stated he is 46 years of age,

and his wife occupy 2 rooms in the north' wing of a rooming

house, the address of which is 4225 S. Main Street. This

rooming house actually covers the second floor of 2:

Separate buildings, Mr. STEPHENS' room being located in the

north building in the southeast corner of the north building.

Sometime in the late afternoon of April 4, 1968,.

he and his wifewere in their room. His wife, who has

recently been in the hospital for an extended

period of

time, was in bed in their combination of living-bedroom.

He was in

the kitchen, which is east of the living-bedroom.

He was repairing a radio on a, table located at the north

wall of the kitchen.

Immediately north of him is a common

bathroom which is located at the east end of an east-west

hallway in the north building.. While he was repairing the

radio, he neard what he is certain was a shot, and he 18

certain that shot came from the bathroom from

a point

within just a few feet of where he was sitting.

He has no

way of knowing the time but can only estimate it was sometime

between

5:00 and 6:00 PM..

Upon hearing this shot, he walked out of the kitchen

through his living-bedroom and opened the door leading onto

the hallway and observed a man running west down this hallway

and this man was carrying a large bundle of some kind.

He

would estimate that this bundle or package was at least

3 or 4 feet long and 6 to 8 inches thick.

Although he saw the

man and the bundle only momentarily, he gained the impression

that the bundle was wrapped in something, possibly a newspaper.

This man continued running to the end of

the hallway turning

left (south) and apparently thereafter ran down the stairways

onto the street, although he could not actually see the man

going down the stairway.

22

4/5/68

On

.at

Memphis, Tennessee

_File #

ME 44-1987

SA

4/9/68

by

-Date dictated -

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of tbe FBI and la loaned l

NW 65994uDoclay 28851i:s agenire not to be distribUted Outside you &gency.

---

## Page 115

ME 44-1987

It immediately occurred to Mr. STEPHENS that

this was the same man he had seen earlier in the afternoon,

possibly around mid-afternoon, standing at the door to

room 5-B which is located innediately west of Mr.

STEPHENS 3 living-bedroom.

He'stated that around' iid-

. r;

afternoon he had seen a man with Mrs. BREWER standing in the

hallway at the entrance to roon 5-B lolling into room 5-B.

He saw the man's left side.

The man had nothing in his hands

at the time. He assumed this was some new guest looking

at a room.

MI. STEPHENS stated that he and his wife remained

in their room the rest

of the afternoon. He pointed out that

he, Mr. STEPHENS, is a disabled veteran who has been treated

for tuberculosis,

and he spends most of his time in his rooms

with his wife who'is also 111 and who at present is a bed

patient.

Sometime after seeing thisman with Mrs. BREWER, he.

heard someone in room 5-B and assumed the man hehad seen

had rented the room next door. He stated that he recalls

on several different occasions hearing footsteps in this room

and also leaving fron this room past his (Mr. STEPHENS'S)

room and into the connon bathroom at the east end of the

hall. He was also very much aware that when the person went

from room 5-B to the bathroom, that person remained in the bath-

room for a considerable period of time. He pointed out that

this is particularly noticeable since this is a coumon bathroom

which must be used by a number of different tenants.

also specifically recalled that only on one occasion did

he hear the commode being flushed and he was therefore curious

as to why this person was spending so much time in the bathroom.

He stated that on the last occasion that someone'..

went fron number 5-B to the bathroom prior to the time he

heard the shot, he would estimate that that person remained

in the bathroon for at least 20 to 30 minutes. During

this period he heard no noises coming from the bathroom.

He also specifically recalls that during this same period,

Mr. WILLIS ANCHUN (phonetic), who occupies room 4-B, immedt-

ately west of 5-B where the new tenant apparently was located,.

23

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 115

---

## Page 116

ME

44-1987

3

had knocked on Mr. STEPHENS'S door and somewhat Li angrily

inquired as to who was staying in the bathroom so long.

it was at the end of this latter period of time

that Mr. STEPHENS heard the above described shot which he

was certain came fron the bathroon. He stated that immediately

after the shot was fired he heard some people located across

the street, east of the building where he lives, screaming..

que to the excitement of the moment, the fact that people

across the street in the vicinity of the Lorraine Motel

were screaming, and the fact that his hearing is not the

best, he did rit hear any additional noises coming from the

bathroom. He pointed out that he would expect to hear a

"scuffle" coming from the bathroom if the man in the bathroom

had fired

, the shot that killed MARTIN LUTHER KING, but he

cannot recall hearing such a."scuffle." He stated that he

simply has no way of knowing whether the man came out of the

bathroom, went into room 5-B and then ran out of 5-B down

the hall toward the front of the building, or whether the man

* in the bathroom ran directly from the bathroon down the

hallway toward the front of the building. He stated he did

hesitate a few mosents after hearing the shot and hearing the

screaming outside before he went to the door and looked down

the hall to see the man running carrying something in his hand.

Mr. STEPHENS advised that the only people in the

north building of this rooming house at the time of this

incident were (1) Mr. STEPHENS, (2) Hr. STEPHENS's wife,

who was in bed and who was never in a position to observe

anything, (3) Mr. WILLIS ANCHUIZ (phonetic), above, in room

4-B, who came out of his room and was seen by Mr. STEPHENS

at the same time Mr. STEPHENS saw the man running down the

hall, (4) Mrs. JESSIE LET:ETTER, a deaf and dumb lady who re-

sides'in room 1-B toward the front (west) of the north ming

or north building, and (5) the unknown man who had occupied

room 5-B who was running down the hall as previously stated

Mr. STEPHENS stated that Mr. ANCHULz made some remark

to the unknown man who was running down the hallway and the

unknown man apparently made some kind of reply.

24

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 116

---

## Page 117

ME 44-1987

Mr. STEPHENS advised that whereas he could hear

footsteps in S-B and could hear footstep. between 5-B and the

bathroom,

he at no time heard any conversation in 5-B;

and he is certain that there was no conversation in 5-B

from the time the new tenant checked in until the time

he heard the shot. He stated he never heard any noise or

footsteps which would indicate to him there was ever more

than one person in room 5-B. He pointed out that whereas

his hearing is not too good, it is very easy to hear noises

be the

in the adjoining rooms of this rooming house and he definitely

can hear normal conversation coming from that room. Mr.

STEPHENS stated that when he saw the new tenant with Mrs.

BREWER standing in front of 5-B, he only saw the left side

of the new tenant, and when he saw what he believes to be the

same man running down the hallway carrying something, he only

saw this person from the rear..

He pointed out he never saw

him directly in front, but based upon his observations he

would describe this person as follows:

Name:

Unknown..

Race:

White

sex:

Male

Ago: "

"In his 30's."

Height:

5' 10-11"

Weight:

165 pounds

Build :

Average

Posture:

Man stood erectly

Hair:

Described as sandy, also

described as "dark blond"

or having the appearance of

unwashed sand.

Further described hirline

as receding on left side

(and presumably on both sides)

making it appear ne would nave

"peaks" on either side but

with full thick hair toward

the front center of his head

between the peaks. Hair

combed straight back. Normal

or average haircut.

25

. NW 65994 Docld:32989731 'Page 117

---

## Page 118

ME 44-1987

Dress:

General Appearance:

Bare headed, wearing dark

. suit

Clean shaven, neat appearing

individual.

26

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 118

---

## Page 119

FD-302 (Rov.

4015•641

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date

4/7/68

CHARLES STEPHENS, Apartment 6B, 422' South Main

Street, Memphis, advised that on the afternoon of April 4,

1968, he was with his wife at the above address.

He stated

at about 3:30 p.m., on the above date, he began working

on a table model radio of his which was in need of repair:

He said he took a radio to the kitchen and placed it on the

table which was against the wall that was adjacent to the

bathroom which was used by all tenants on his floor.

As he

was working on his radio he could hear the man in the next

apartment to him, Apartment 5B, leave his room several times

and go into the bathroom.

Mr. STEPHENS stated that he knew

it was the man who had just checked in to Apartment 5B that

afternoon because he could hear the door of Apartment 5B

open and then footsteps would go down the hall to the bathroom,

the bathroom door would open and then close.

MI. STEPHENS said that during these various trips that

the individual in Apartment 5B made to the bathroom he failed

to flush the toilet of to run any water with the exception of

the last time he was in the bathroom.

At this time he flushed

the toilet.

He stated that this individual seemed to be spending

an undue length of time in this bathroom.

At about 6:00 p.m..

on April 4, 1968, MY. STEPHENS heard a loud noise which he described

as sounding like a gunshot come from the bathroom. Upon hearing

this noise, Mr. STEPHENS ran from the kitchen where he was repairing

his radio to his door that led to the hallway. He stated this is

only a distance of about 10 to 12 feet.

Upon opening the door

he saw a man leave the bathroom carrying a package of about three

feet long and wrapped in what appeared to be newspaper. He saw

the man run down the hall and then turn left as if he were trying

to leave the apartment building. As this was happening WILLIE.

ANSCHUTZ, who lived in Apartment 4B, came out of his apartment

and went

to the bathroom. ANSCHUTZ then told STEPHENS to look out

of his window.

STEPHENS

said that he then looked out of his

kitchen window which faced the lorraine Hotel and saw a lot of

policemen scurrying about and people running screaming in the

vicinity of the hotel.

27 .

Memphis, Tennessee

On 4/5/68

at

-File #

ME 44-1987

SA

_Date dictated -

4/5/68

This document contains neither recommendations nor cosclusions of the FBI. Il in the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your ageacy.

MV 65994 Docld:32989/31 Page 119

---

## Page 120

ME 11-1287

2

MI. STEPBENS stated that the man who was in

Apartment 5B had checked in about 3:00 or 3:30 p.. on

April 4; 1968.

He stated he was sure of this because ho"had."

heard the landlady showing him the apartment at, that' timo.

He

stated no glanced out of his door and got à fairly godd 100% ai

'the man who ho describad as' boing a waite nale; 5' 10-11";

moighing 165 pounds; glender build; ruddy complexion; sandy

hair; had a long; sharp pointed nose; wearing what appeared toi

be a dark blue or black sult, walte shirt and dark tie.

Mr. STEPRENS stated that the men who he saw running.

out of the bathroom closoly resenbled the nan who had checked

into Apartment 5B.

to said he could only ses the man who ran

from the

Apartnent 5B.

Ar. STEPHENS described the individual, he saw-running

out of the bathroon as follows:

-

" is

...Racọ

Sox.

• Hale

Height

5'10-11"

Weight

165

Bulld

¾41"

Slender

Complexion,

Hа1r

Ruddy

Sandy, slightly on dark side

clothing

Wearing dark suit

'Hir: STEPHEN'S added that he had nover met the san iho

checked Into Apartment 5B, talked to him, of knew his name

28

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 120

---

## Page 121

• 8D-302 (Rer,4015-84)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

4/7/68

Date

Mrs. PEGGY BURNS,

telephone' number

advised she is employed as a saleslady at the

Oliver Rexall Drugstore in Whitehaven.

Mray BURNS stated that'

she recalls selling a Gillette shaving kit, which was in a

clear plastic container, to a white man a little before noon

on April 3, 1968.

She stated that this shaving kit contained

a saiety razor, shaving lotion, shaving cream, hair tonic,

and deodorant, which is all manufactured by the Gillette Company,

and was in a clear plastic container, approximately four Inches

by six inches.

Mrs. BURNS recalled that a white man came into the

OlIver Rexall Drugstore shortly before noon, April 3, 1968, and

asked her for a razor. She said she pointed out where the

razors were located in her store, and directed him to that area

of the store.

She advised the white man walked down to this

area, and picked out the Gillette shaving kit, and brought'it

back to the cash' register, where she was located. Mrs. BURNS said

she could not recall any other items which the white man''

purchased in her store.

She could not recall how he paid for

this purchase, and did not recall anything he said while he was

paying for the item.

'Mrs. BURNS stated that she got the impression from the

white man's activities that he was a stranger in the area, and

she said she does not believe he has ever been in her store before.

She said she is sure that she has never seen him prior to the

time he approached her, and she furnished the following description

for him:

Race:

Age:

Height:

Weight:

Hatr:

Eyes:

White

45

5°798

165 pounds

Black - could not recall how

he combed it or anything

further

about his hair

Color unknown

126

Memphis, Tennessee

4/4/68

44-1987

On

File #

SA

4/6/68

-Date dictated -

This document containe neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and la loaned le

your agency; it and ils contents are not to be distributed outaide your agency.

MW. 65994 Docld:32989731-Page 121

---

## Page 122

FD -302 (Rov-1-15-84)

FEDERAL. BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

3502.

1

Date

Apr1l

/1968

Вітина

MrS. BESSIE RUTH BREWER, Resident Manager,

rooming

house located

at 422÷ South Main Street, Memphis, Tennessee,

was interviewed at Central Police Headquarters, Memphis,.

Tennessee,

Police Department, at which time she furnished

the following information:

Between 3:00 P.M.

and 3:30 P.M. on April 4,

1968,

a white male knocked on the door of the second floor of the

rooming house and asked Mrs. BREWER if she had a room. She

replied yes, and this individual then asked 1f he could see

it. Mrs. BREWER showed him Room No. 8, which is located in

the southwest part of the building, and the individual put his

head into the doorway and after looking, stated that this.

would not be satisfactory as he did not need a stove and

refrigerator but only wanted a sleeping room. Mrs. BREWER

then showed this individual Room 5-B, and he put his head in

the doorway of this room and said it

would be fine. At this

point the individual asked where the bathroom facilities were

located, and she pointed to the bathroom located in the

northeast portion of the hallway which is located in the same

hallway as Room 5-B.

She and this individual then returned

to her office.

The individual stated that his name was JOHN

WILLARD and that he wanted a sleeping room for one week.

WILLARD then asked her how much the room rent would

be for one week, and Mrs. BREWER replied $8.50. WILLARD. then

put his hand into his right trouser pocket and withdrew a

twenty dollar bill and two quarters and handed the money to

She gave him change in denominations of one ten dollar

bill and two one dollar bills. When WILLARD arrived at the

On

did he volunteer any information concerning his home residence,

line of business, or mode of transportation. WILLARD was not

reguired to sign any type of register, and the only written

record maintained of the transaction was a receipt for the

$8.50, which was made out 'in the handwriting of Mrs. BREWER.

Mrs. BREWER was unable to state 1f WILLARD returned

9

ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED

READIN IS UNURASSIETEI

DATE.

192

20180

4/5/68

_at

Memphis, Tennessee

_File #

Memphis 44-1987

4/8/68

by

-Date dictated -

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. Il is the property of the FBI and ia loaned to

NW. 65994006W129897g iupange 12are not to be distributed outside your agency.

---

## Page 123

ME 44-1987

2

to Room 5-B or it he left the building at any time after

renting Room 5-B.

Mrs. BREWER did not again observe WILLARD

after he rented the room.

Mrs. BREWER's husband returned home from work at

5:25 P,M. on April 4, 1968, and at that thie Mr. and Mrs:

BREWER commenced their dinner. After dinner Mr. BREWER

then turned on the television set and was watching the

"Rawhide" television program, and Mrs. BREWER did the

dinner dishes.

Shortly after completing the dinner dishes,

Mrs. BREWER also sat down to watch the "Rawhide" television

program.

Within a matter of a couple of minutes, Mrs. BREWER

heard what she thought to be a gun shot coming from the back

of her rooming house.

Mrs. BREWER believed that this must

have been around 6:00 P.M. On April 4, 1968.

She advised

her husband that she thought it was a gun shot.

Her husband

took time to put on his slippers and both of them then

proceeded to the southeast exit of the building. Upon

arriving at this point, Mr. BREWER attempted to go out the

back door; however, a law enforcement officer was in the back

of the building and instructed'both Mr. and Mrs. BREWER to

close the door and return to their apartment. MrS. BREWER

did not hear any noise such as someone running through her

building after hearing the gun shot, and the only noise she

could recall hearing was a lot of hollering and screaming

near the back of her building toward the Lorraine Motel.

MrS. BREWER examined cash that she had on hand

and determined that she had three $20.00 bills in her

possession. she was unable to specitically pinpoint which

$20.00 bill was furnished to her by WILLARD for payment of

his room rent.

Mrs. BREWER made available the following

described twenty dollar Federal Reserve Notes:

(1) Series 1963-A, Serial No. F14002844A

(2) Series 1963-A, Serial No. H16164663A

(3) Sertes 1963, Serial No. F06445143A

Mrs. BREWER furnished the following description

of WILLARD:

Race:

'Sex:

Age:

White

Male

Approximately 35 years

.10

NW 65994 Docld:32989731• Page 123

---

## Page 124

BSE 44- 1987

3

Height:

Weight:

Build:

Appearance:

5'11" to 6º

180 pounds

Medium (carriod weight woll)

Real neat looking, clean •

shaven.

Mrs. BREWER stated that WILLARD appearod to have &

sulle or a sneer on hig face during their entire conversation;

did not appoar as though he was the outdoors type; was

wearing a dark sport jacket or short Jacket, as he did not

have to pull the Jacket back when he reached his right hand

Into his pocket for his money; did not notice any rings or

watches; paid no attention: to his shoes, pants, shirt,

or whether he had on a tio, but was quite positive that he '':

did not have a hat; did not give the appearance of needing

a haircut, nor ras he wearing a mustache or any long sideburns;

paid no particular attention to his teoth while he was talking

and did not particularly notice about any part of his face,

including nose, nouth, ears, chin, or eyebrows.

Mrs.

BREWER claims that she did not particularly

look at this individual as she did not like the snile or

sneer that he had on his face.

Mrs. BREWER did recall that when she pointed out

the bathroom facilities to WILLARD, she told him that everyone

in the area of his room was usually quiet but that the guy next

to him usually drinks a little bit. Mrs. BREWER claimed that

WILLARD then stated, "I take a beer once.in awhile myself."

Mr's, BREWER claimed that she told him that was all right as

long as he stayed in his roon and kept quiet.

Mig. BREKER was unable to state whether any of the

other rooners at her rooning house had an opportunity to

either observe or have any contact with HILLARD, nor was she

able to furnish any additional information concerning

WILLARD's activities during the brief period that he resided

at her rooming house..

She claims that she does not believe

that she would recognize 'this individual again 'from a

photograph or 1f she had an opportunity to see him in person,

but qualified this by stating that she probably would be

able to recognize him from the smile or sneer that he had on

his face it she vere able to observe that in the luture..

11

• *:

NW 65984 Docld:32989731 Page 124

---

## Page 125

ME 44-1987

she claimed that WILLARd did not volunteer any

information concerning his personal background or volunteer

any information concerning his reason for being in Memphis.

She claimed that WILLARD's speech was "just like the rest

of us around here," and that his vocabulary and accent were

not out of place in her rooning. house.

Mrs. BREWER recalled

that when MihiRd first looked in Room 8, he remarked that

he only wanted a sleeping room as he would not be in the

room in the daytine, just at night.

..,.

....

i.

12

INW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 125

---

## Page 126

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date

4/13/68

Mrs. FRANK (BESSIE) BREWER, Room 2, 422% South Main.

of the FBI, telephonically contacted the FBI Office on April 10,

MrS BREWER was contacted by SA

and

homicide Bureau,

Memphis Police

Departnent, at which time she advised that she was beginning to

receive mail from individuals unknown to her. She displayed an

of the letter referring to the fact that urs. BREWER should

cockroaches!"

A second envelope was postmarked April 7, 1968, at

Des Hoines,

lowa, which contained a printed religious tract

and neither the envelope nor the

tract identified the sender.

the occasion; of this contact with Mrs. BREWER,

she furnished

the following infornation:

She stated she wanted to point out that she

has previously forgotten to advise officers of the

Police Department and FBI Agents that at the time she

ranted Roon 5-B to & stranger using the name of JOHN

HILLARD on April 4, 1968, there. was a small, cheap

chest of drawers,

blond in color, in front of the east

window on the south wall of room

5-B, whereas after the

shooting of Dr. KING and when she next saw Room 5-B,

that chest of drawers was sitting against the west wall

of that room and there was a chair sitting in front of

13

Memphis, Tennessee

4/10/68

On

_at

_File #

Memphis 44-1987

by

—Date dictated

4/12/68

This document contains neither recommendations sor conclusions of the FBi. Il is the property of the FBI and is loanod to

NW 6599418ERS2989% 1° Fonter 28re not to be distributed outaide your agency.

---

## Page 127

ME 44-1987

2

that window. She stated she was pointing this out since

this would indicate that the occupant of the room

definitely handled this chest of drawers.

Mrs. BREWER stated that since interviewed

previously, she had been trying to think of anything.

else which

might assist in identifying the guest who

used the name of JOHN WILLARD.

she stated as she has

aiscussed the matter with her husband aid thought more

about it, the one thing which impressed her most about

the appearance of this individual was the fact that when

she first cracked open the door to her room after this

man knocked, she observed that he was standing at the

door with an unusual smile on his face. She

went on to

state that she would describe the smile as a "sneer" or

& "smirk." She stated that she cannot be more

specific

other than to state that she was impressed by this

expression on this man's face, as though he were trying

to smile for no reason. She stated that she did not

Interpret the smile as an effort to be flirtatious.

She also stated that her initial impression

of this man was that he did not "fit in" with other

tenants in this rooming house. She pointed out that this

rooming house is located in a

poorer section of town

where most of the tenants are older people or others

with limited income, a number of whon are alcoholics,

and this man was clean and neatly dressed, giving the

Impression that he could obtain lodging in nicer

surroundings.

Mrs. BREWER at this time attempted to recall

the words used by this person.

As she recalls, when she

went to the door and cracked open the door, leaving the

chain fastened, the man's first words were, "Do you have

a room for rent?" She answered in the affirmative and

asked him whether he wanted a room by the week of by the

month.

He replied, as nearly as she can recall, by

stating simply, "By the week." At this point she

unfastened the

chain

which secured the,partially opened

door and walked directly to Room 8 located in the south

wing of this rooming house.

She stated that the man

followed her to the room and looked inside the room but

never actually entered the room, at which time his words,

: 14

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 127

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## Page 128

ME 44-1987

3

as nearly as she can recall, were, "Well, I don't need the

Stove and refrigerator since I won't be

doing any cooking.

I was thinking more of a sleeping room."

At this point Miss. BREWER explained that the

only vacant "sleeping room" (or room with no stove and

refrigerator) which she had in either wing of the

rooming house was Room 5-B in the north wing. She

therefore innediately walked from Room 8 in the south

wing across the enclosed walkway which connects the

south wing to the north wing.of the rooming house,

and thereafter to Room 5-B. Again she walked in front

of the man.

the man imnediately stated that he would take that room.

She then walkers, to her room in the south wing of the

building, followed by the unknown man, who paid her

$8.50, as

outlined previously by her, for the rent of

Room 5-B for one week in advance.

Mrs. BREWER stated that most of the rooms in

this rooming house can be secured only with the use of a

padlock, and after showing this individual Room 5-B, she

removed

the padlock from the door and took the padlock

with her to her room.

She stated it is necessary that

tenants put up a deposit if they secure the padlock, but

this tenant did not inguire as to how he could lock the

door and did not request the padlock and a key.

She also

added that she did not explain to him the method of

locking the door or that it was necessary that he put up

a deposit in order to obtain the padlock.

She stated at this point that she had been

somewhat unnerved when she first looked at this man, at

which time he had the unusual snile on his face, or

appeared to be "sneering" at her, and thereafter she made

a point of having as little to do with him as possible,

always. walking in front of hin and avoiding all

unnecessary conversation or dealings with him.

Mrs. BREWER was asked whether she now feels

that she could identify this man if she sees him again.

She stated that she thought she might be able to identify

this man if she sees him again. She stated the man used

no slang or unusual expressions and she could not associate

his accent with any particular area, adding he had no

particular accent.

15

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 128

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## Page 129

ME. 44-1987

4

she also stated that she is positive she has

never seen this man bafore.

She pointed out that she has

only been handling the rental of the rooms at this

rooming house since March 12, 1968, horever, and she

would have no way of knowing whather he stayed at this

rooming house prior to that time.

She®

stated that at the time she became the

landlady at this rooming house, Roon 5 '8 was occupied

by an olderly man by the name of COMMODORE STEWART.

This man was ill as of March 12, 1968, and she believed

that it was on march 12, 1968,

Mempais nospital. A couple of days later, probably on

either March 13 or 14, 1968, this man died. The room

had not been rented fron that time until the time the

stranger using the name of JOHN WILLARD rented this room.

, She, understands that a number of different

persons have acted in the capacity of rental agent for

this rooming house in recent nonths, including Mr.

• :

WYATT MADDOX, who is now a clerk at

the Tri-State Hotel

located nearby, Mr. MADDOX never having lived in this

rooming house, however, and apparently having acted as

rental agent for only a short period of time. Another

Individual who handled the rental of rooms in this

rooming house was H. R. THOMPSOY, COMMINEN

My who never lived in the rooming house.

One other rental agent at this rooning house prior to

the time Mrs. BREWER assured these duties was w. V.

SAMiONS, who she understands is nos at the madison hotel

in Memphis., She 1s sure that Mr. Salyons was the rental

agent in January 1968, based on copies of receipts in

her receipt book. She recalled that Mr. SAMHONS stabbed .

his wife while he was rental agent at this rooming house

and the matter received publicity.

Mrs. BREHER advised that most of the occupants

of rooms in this rooming house are more or less permanent

tenants, although she does occasionally rent a vacant'

room to

transients for only one night...

MrS. BREWER advised that there are 10 separate

apartments or rooms in the south wing of this "rooming

house and six separate apartments or roons in the north

wing.

The six rooms in the north wing are referred to as

I-B, 2-B, otc., whereas the rooms in the south wing have

16

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 129 •

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## Page 130

ME 44-1987

5

no letter of the alphabet following the room number.

she furnished the following information concerning the

status ot these rochs as of April, 1968, when the man

using the name JOIN HILLARD checked into room 5-B:

SOUTH WING:

(Rooms are numbered in a counter-clockwise order,.

starting with Roon No. I in the southweft corner of

this wing of the rooming house.

Room 1 - Vacant

Room 2 - Occupied by Hr.

and Mrs. BREWER and

referred to as the "office,"

Room 3 - occupied by Mr. BERTIE L. REEVES, an

elderly man who is retired and who appears

to be reasonably responsible.

She stated

1814

that Hi. REEVES came out of his .roon about

the same time as Mr. and urs. BREWER after

all heard what they believed to be a shot

about 6:00 poth., Aprza 4, 1968,

Room 4 - Occupted by HOKARD

VANSE, an older man,

restat ris

but who as

01

April 4, 1968,

was known by hrs. BREWER

to have been drunk for two days.

urS.

BREYER stated she knew that VANCE was in

his room as of 6:00 p.., April 4, 1968,

but she also knew that he had been on a

two-day drunk and that he did not come

out of his roos.

Room 5 - Occupied by t. Is

years of age, who has been ill recently,

(MESSER,' a man 75 t0 80 //17-1/17

whose hearing is very defective, and who

"x..

was in his room as of the tine of the

shooting.

Mrs. BREWER added, however,

that due

to Mr. MESSER's age and his

physical and rental condition, Mr. MESSER

still does not understand what actually

occurred and continues to ask what all the

excitement was about when police officers

and FBI Agents questioned occupants of the

building.

17

NIV 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 130'

---

## Page 131

-714 *16*54

ME 44-1987 .

Room 6 - Vacant.

Man by the name of SAyUEd WILSON,

who she understands had been a tenant for

several months, vacated this room on

April 3, 1968.

Room 7 - Occupied by FRANK M. MARLEY, an elderly

it who was

a he short To Bot that ha cano

did not come out of his room around the

time of the shooting..

Room 8 - Vacant.

(This is the roon which Mrs.

BREWER

first showed to the man using the

naMe JOHN KILLARD.)

1908-1113

Room 9 - Occupiod by HAROLD CARTER,

man, 55 to 60

years of age,

does not believe

he

of the shooting.

She

home at the time

Room 10 - Occupied by LEONARD.

BATON, age 60 to 65,

who she understands to be a long-time

resident at this rooming house, who reportedly

formerly worked on a river boat. She stated

it -I's her impression that he was in his

room asleep at the time of the shooting

and that he too had been drinking.

• 9.

NORTH WING:

(Rooms on north wing are numbered 1-B through 6-B,

reading from west to east.

Those doors having numbers

have numerals only on them, but all of the tenants

understand that the designation of "B" refers to the

rooms in the north ning.)

Room 1-B - (located west of a north-south hallway

which connects to an enclosed walkway

connecting the two wings of the rooming

nouse) eccupied by urs. JESSIE L, LedEreR,

a widow who she understands has resided at

this address for some 8 to 10 years. Mrs.

LEDRETTER is d'deal mute.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 131

---

## Page 132

ME 44-1987

7

Room 2-B - Vacant.

Room 3-B - Vacant.

Roon 4-B - Occupied by WILLIS ANCHUTZ, employed at

Duvall Transier Coupany.

MrS. BREWER

later learned. that Mr. ANCHUTZ

reportedly saw the man running down the

hall following the shooting and had some

conversation with him.

Room 5-B - Room occupied by the man using name

JOHN WILLARD and which room had not

been rented since former tenant,

COMMODORE STEWART, died about March

13

or 14, 1968.

ROOm

. 6-B - Occupied by Mr. and Mrs. CHARLIE.

STEPHENS,

Mr. STEPHENS Is an unemployed tuberculosig

patient and his wife is presently confined

to her bed.

1942

19

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 132

---

## Page 133

F

706.77 17

2-13-

TO 012209

144-33201 1771: 5?0

AL ROSEN, ASSISTANT DIPECTOR

GENERAL IUNEORICATEVE CIVICIO

FO M540419 849-1937)

MUSKI"- ASSESSINATION OF TEFTIN LUTHER FONG IR

I AFPOOYIMITELY THE FORTYFIVE PM, INTERVIEW LAS BEGUN WITH

JEMES GET A CHOIC, YEMPHIS AT TENNESSEE STATE PRISON. INTERVIEW

CARCLUTE, AT APPROKINITELY TUES THIRTYFIVE PMO

PAY ON ENTERING

ROOM CHIC, YOU TE TIE SUE INO TESTIFIES. I DON'T WANT TO TALK

Is You picyrset reen the rol

PAY HAS ASKED TO SIT DOW! AND

WAS TOLE IT MES PRECIOLE ME HE THINES WE COULD TALK ABOUT RAY

SAID, TO NOT SOIRE SO TALY TROUT CARE AS I VE GEEM MISCUOTED

ENOUGH HE AS UNSELE TO POINT OUT ALY SPECIFICS WHERE FEI HAD

EVER MIGRORES. HIM.

WaS"

AS ALSO TOLE FRI HAD NOT INTEPVIEWED

HIM SO IT WAS NOT POSSIPLE TOR US TO MISQUOTE HIM. PAY INDICATED

HE DETTE: SO LACK TO CELL AS CAC JAS OULY TRYING TO TRICK MIN

INTO TALKINE ROOSE CROCO

IS THERE ARE PEAS SULTE PLEA

563

IN 0771

SAIS

300

1E MAR 17, 1559

BAY

Touches ois only er delayer, maranoe

H::33

SAC

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5 6/Mn 211933

11.2S TEVOSTLOATOR

Muotar top the Discon

ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED

HEREIN IS UNCLASSLAAED

DATE 2

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 133

---

## Page 134

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NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 134

---

## Page 135

PACE THIE:

HeS Ma1110 21

T9. 327-55

Hits

2:727

CÉT GOD. STONER, AN ATTORNEY IN GLORGIAR

OTINE: NEEL YHOLE FIDURE IN VARIOUS CHITE

20 OEST01

241-02 BATe HE BY

!. T WANT TO TALK AHY MORE ABOUT

HETELY WIG ATTORMEY WOULD DE ABLE TO REOPER HIS

CASS• 00110! 341О NE WAS LEITE? PREPAPED TO SEID TO SENATOR

ECOTLIE ME RUSH 1H POUT TWO OR THREE MOTHS HIS CASE WOULD BE

CLEMENTO TE ERIC GE ME TEONE THEN DE WILLING TO SIT DOUN

AND DISCUSE THE CACE MILE

-190 2016

TAX C0002E0 106

HAY DROVOKI UP FBI TV

S92:732

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SEE ALLAYS LED TO LET THE CRIMINALS

DRAÚ MINCE TOROTE THEY WERE CHOTO HE AS TOLD THIS IS CHLY

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2? LAROUS ATE USES OULY TH SELF

EKOPTICISMO ME THEN ASKED IF F21

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SOME

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ME dAS ACHED IF HE SAS

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BUILD THEY IOUUTIFIED INA

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NW 65994 Docld:32989731: Page 135*

---

## Page 136

11N235

CANE TREN

2720

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4.0003 200K 97 119 19 3005795 KOUSEO

DISCIOS TIMO FURTHE?

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NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 136

---

## Page 137

-D:3":

....

i":"

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CLACITY CHAR PIATOMENTOO

HE PIS, HOWEVER,

COnTASY CRIME AE THE NENERAPEPS

SAY

5.0"

1F.12

= ....

25 CHAT

pilar ar 703 35 910

13? 11

OSCO NOT LIKE TO MEET A

*DONTO JOE CO HO3792 AND POOBAT F. BOYLE.

TO TALK TO F21 CECUSE ALL THEY WASTED TO

VAC TRICH 12"

AT COSCLUSICH OR AUTORWICH CAID HE CID

NOT WIST IT ICK TO PRY OTHE: ECLUTS AT THIC IIME.

HE WAS IOLD

THERE 122E

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HIS PATTIUS COMMENT

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ca:

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LU TROONTACT HIM AGAIN TORORACL

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NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 137

---

## Page 138

0022 LO0% VAS SRECIFICALLY

TURN THE MAXIMUM SECURITY

POIRESE QUI TO HARDER DUSSELLE

DE: RUSSELL, SAC REQUESTED

CRAZE PEHITERTZARY SHOULD 25 HELD

BLE DO 30 BUT OF COURSE

..

ARSON MARDE

P.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 138

---

## Page 139

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/11/68

At approximately 10:30 a.m. DONALD F. WOOD

was contacted at Aeronarine Supply Company, 5701 Airport

Highway, Birmingham, and advised that he is the son of

ROBERT E. WOOD, SR., who is the owner of the Aeronarine

Supply Company.

WOOD was discreetly questioned con-

cerning the sale of a Remington caliber 30.06 rifle,

serial number 461476, which Aeromarine had purchased

from limberley-Thomas in august, 1966.

DONALD F. WOON

immediately stated that he had heard the accounts of the

assassination of MARTIN LUTHER KING the previous day i

the radio and had Innediately recalled selling a rifle,

as was described in the newspaper as the murder weapon, to

an individual about a week before the murder. HOOD

immediately searched for and found a sales invoice in his

records and indicated that on Saturday, March 30, 1968, bu

had sold this gun to an individual using the name HARVES

After obtaining both copies of this sales

invoice, Mr. WOOD was requested to accompany the inter

viewing

Agent to the Birmingham Office of the FBI, which

he agreed to do. Mr. WOOD was transported to the Birtin~

ham Office of the FBI, where he furnished the following

signed statement:

"Birmingham, Alabama

April 5, 1968

this statement to special age hereby make

Minitim

who has identified himself to me as a Special

Agent of the

Federal Bureau of Investigation.

reside at

f, Birmingham,

Alabama and

subscribe to telephone number 1

I am

employed by my father, ROBERT E.

WOOD,

SR. at the

Aeromarine Supply Company, 5701

Airport Highway,

Birmingham, Ala., as a salesnan.

ALL IN TAT

On

4/5/68

at

B1 rmingham, Alabama

-File # _ BH 44-1740

by

SA

-Date dictated.

4/11/68

Thia document contains seither recommendationa nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned lo

your agency; it and ite contenta are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 139

15°

---

## Page 140

44-1740

2

"On Friday, March 29, 1968, sometime

In the early afternoon I had just returned fros

lunch when I observed Nr. V. L. BAKER, also a

salesman, completing the sale of a rifle

to an

individual unknown to me.

Mr. BAKER had just

sold this man a Remington, Modol 700, Caliber

• 213 Winchester with a 2x-7x Redficld Scope

mounted thereon.

Mr. BAKER had made this salo

and had also mounted and bore sighted the scopn

on our machine.

This individual alsn bought ore

bux of 20 rounds of .243 Norma ammunition. He

paved cash for this sale.

shen I first obscred

this man he was dressed in a dark business suit

with a white shirt and tie, as well as I remember.

He was approximately 5'g" tall, 150 to 160 pounds

and had dark hair.

He had a modium complexich and

appeared to be a meek individual.

This individua

had given his name as HARVEY LOWMEYER and stated

that he resided at 1907 South 11th Street,

Birmingham, Alabama. He also advised that ho was

36 years of age.

"This information was not given to my'

personally by this individual, but I determined it

from the bill of sale that was prepared by

Mr. BAKER.

"Following the sale this individual left

the store carrying the gun in a cardboard box

utilized by the Browning Manufacturing Corpany.

This box was used because with the scope mountes

He also took the empty Remington manufacturer's

carton with him when he loft.

"It was, as best "I recall, either later

that afternoon or

early the following saturday

morning when this individual called on the tele.

phone and stated that he had had a conversation

with his brother and decided that the gun he harl

purchased was not the gun ho wanted and he remistfi

whether he could exchange it for a Remington,

760, 30.06 caliber.

make this exchange but that it would cost him an

i exchan

I advised him that ve could

additional $5.00.

NN 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 140

16..

---

## Page 141

BH 44-1740

3

"At approximately 9:00 AM on saturday,

March 30, this same individual roturned to the

store with the gun he had previously purchased.

When he returned the gun he had the gun still in

Browning box.

I told him that I would change

scope from the calibor .243 rifle to the

Nodel 760, but that it would take me until approri

matoly 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon and I

Instructed him to roturn at 3:00 o'clock and to brins

the original Remington box for the caliber .243

store the gun in. I gave him the Model 760 gun ans

I believe that I left it in the Bronning carton.

did not receive the $5.00 because in exchanging it*

scope I had to use a weaver base and rings inatrad

of the Redfield base and rings and this mario up the

cost difference. I also exchanged the box uf .243.

caliber ammunition for a box of 30.06 ammurition

which I believe was peters Core Lokt, 150 grain,

20 rounds per box.

He left the storo carrying timo gin

in the cardboard box.

"During the course of our dealings on

Saturday I asked this individual why he didn't want

the caliber. 243 gun and I told him that it was i

big enough gun to bring down any deer in Alabana.

stated in an offhand manner that he wanted the 30.16

caliber gun because he was going to use it to hurt

Wisconsin.

"At the present time this is all that i car

remember concerning the transaction with this indivi.

dual..

"4/5/68

"I have read this signed statement and

accept where 1 have initlated one correction.

find it to

consist of this and two other pages and

1t is true and correct.

"/S/ DONALD F. NOOD

"Is/

Special Agent,

FBI, 4/5/68.

"/s/&

FBI, Birmingham,

Special Agort,

4/5/68."

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 141

---

## Page 142

jial

RECORD INVOICE

''СОМРАМУ•

Phone 595-2142

AIRCRAFT-AUTOMOTIVE

MARINE-SPORTING GOODS.

PARIS & SUPPLIES

AEROMARINE SUPPLY CO.

5701 BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT HIGHIAY

INVOICE

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35212

NUMBER

DATE 3/29

4<A

PICK UP-EK

SALESMAN

OCASH OCHECK

GUN

2251A

1968

QUANTITY

504A

NEY

1O1AL

LEILIA

REM AiLOD.

7040

PUME AETINA TER RIFLE, CAL

N743 NI.S.X.203919

461476134.954

2x-7X

94:0

24.60

2390

2032

Вах

465;

234,52

943-6761

Hary farnesed

TOTAR ANALS DGUAIR DOTH ACERRA DETIE CURCE DAR

RECEIVED BY

MERCHAROISE CANNOT BE RETURIFT SOR CREDIT, ALSUNO OR EXCHANGE AFTER 1O DAYS FROM SALE DATE:

PURCHASEL:VOICE MUSI ACCOMPANY ALL RETURNS.

i;.:

TAX

1493

TOTAL 24,59

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 142

---

## Page 143

FD-302 (Rev-4-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date -

April 8, 1968

DONALD F. WOOD, residence

Birminghan,

the son of the owner of Aeronarine supply Company,

Airport

Highway, was asked if he could identify a customer who purchased

a gun case for a Varmint model rifle on March 29, 1968. WOOD,

after checking his invoices, noted that there was such a sal

made on March 29, 1968, but

the invoice was made out to "Cast.."

WOOD recalled, however, that this customer is a' regular custoner

who is a white male, about 25 years old, five feet, ten inches,

• 170 pounds, long, black hair, whose first name is jOhN.

further recalled that he had sold a Browning pistol to this man

• about two and one-half years ago.

and identified this man as JOHN WEBSTER DESHAZO,

wood then checked his yecord-

Weight Pistol on December 11,

Mountain Brook, Alabama, 1965 Purchased a Browning Stardard

Later on April 7, 1968, DON WOOD made available the

following weapons which had been

identified by JOHN WEBSTER

DeSHAZO as having been handled by the person who purchased a

rifle and scope sight at the Aeromarine Supply Company on

March 29, 1968:

One Browning Safari grade, caliber .243,

bolt-action rifle, serial

No. 3700Z5,

Stock No. 946A.

One Remington Model 700, heavy barrel

Varmint .243 Winchester, Serial No. 266009,

Stock No. 753A.

Mr. HOOD was furnished a receipt for the above

weapons.

On

4/7/68

SAS

and

at

Birmingham,

Alabama

_File #

BH 44-174C

ME 44-1987

4/8/68

by

-Date dictated

rais document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the FBI and is loaded l

our agency; it and its contents are not lo be distributed outside yo dagency

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 143

---

## Page 144

F8-3O2 (ReV-4015-68)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Date -

April 14, 1968

Immediately following the receipt of a package at

approximately 12:30 a.m.,

weapons from Special Agent m

April 8, 1968, containing three

-. Special Agent

a hand-carried them aboard a Delta Airlines

flight, changing to an Eastern airlines flight in Atlanta,

Georgia, and ultimately accompanied them to Mr. GEORGE BONEBRATI

of the FBI Identification Division at approximately 8:00 a.m.

on April 8,, 1968.

These items, from the time they were delivered to SA

did not leave

his possession

until delivered to

sir.

BONEBRAKE.

On

4/8/68

Birmingham, Alabama -

-at Washington, D. C.

_File #

BH 44-1740

#by

SA

-Date dictated

Mi count on in gie eat die use 0 a, the property of tie FBi end is loand es

---

## Page 145

1-3,02, 1R,

• Anasans;

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

4/11/68

At approximately 1:00 p.m. on April 5, 1968,

Mr. ROBERT E. WOOD, SR., and DONALD F. WOOD accompanied

the interviewing Agents

to the Aeromarine Supply Company,

5701 Airport Highway, Birmingham, where DONALD F. WOOD

made available a Remington Model

700, caliber .243, rifle,

which was belleved by them to have been handled by the

unknown individual who had purchased the Remington lodel

760 rifle on March 30, 1968.

DONALD F. WOOD also furnished

nine boxes of caliber .243 ammunition from their inventory

stating that one box of this ammunition was believed to

have

been handled by the individual who purchased the gut.

DONALD F. WOOD also furnished a set of Redfield bases and

rings which had been the original bases and rings furnished

by the manufacturer of the Redfield scope. •

HI. WOOD

was, furnished a signed receipt for

the above items.

Immediately following the receipt of these items,

SA A

"hand carried them aboard a United Air-

I1nes flight, changing to a Delta flight in Atlanta, Cerrela,

and ultimately accompanied them to Mr. GEORGE BONEBRAVE IT

the FBI Identification Division at approximately 8:00 p.t.

same date... These items, from the time they were delivered

tO SAI

so did not leave his possession until delivered

to Mr. BONEBRAKE.

On

4/5/68

at

Birmingham, Alabama

BH 44-1740

_File #

SAS

and

by

4/11/68'

-Date dictated

This document containe neither recommendations por conclus

'our agenCy: it and its contents are not to be distribute

sions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

aide yogisency.

.

NW 65994 Docld:3298973i Page 145

d...

---

## Page 146

ED-303/ (ROv-4-15-64)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION .

Date.

118/68

employee of the Aeromar ine supply Company, Airport Highway

advised he is ar

Birmingham.

In connection with the sale of a gun case for a

Varmint model rifle, BAKER said he recalled making such a

sale, but could not recall the date nor the name of the

customer.

He said he could not state that this gun case was

sold on the same date that he had sold a rifle and scope sight.

which was March 29, 1968.*

no, and no

He said the man who bought the sur

case was a frequent customer, and described him as a white male

27 - 28 years old, 5'9", 180

lbs., heavyset, with blond,

thinning hair.

BAKER identified

the other salesman, who would

have been behind the counter on March 29, 1968, as the mariger

of the store, J. HOYT STEPHENS.

In connection with the accent or speech of the person

who purchased the rifle and

scope sight, BAKER said he belleved

it was from "this" (Alabama) general area.

BAKER said that.

the man who purchased the rifle had left the store on March 29,

1968, and came back later in the afternoon and picked up the

rifle.

He was asked if it was possible that the man staged ir.

the store during this time, and BAKER said he was not sure,

4/7/68

On

at

Birmingham, Alabama

_File #_BH 44-1740

SAS

and

4/8/68

by

-Date dictated -

Thie document containe seitber recommendationa nor conclusione of the Fly. "u in the property of the FBi and in loaned to

your agency; it and ite contente are not lo be distributed outside your arency.

NW: 65994 Docld:32989731, Page 146

---

## Page 147

' 11

ME. 44-1987

REVOLVER FOUND. IN POSSESSION OF

JAMES EARL RAY WHEN ARRESTED

JUNE 8, 1968, IN LONDON, ENGLAND

When JAMES EARL RAY was apprehended by members

of New Scotland Yard on June 8, 1968, in London, England,

se nad in his possession & 38 caliber "Liberty Chief",

revolver manufactured by Miroku Firearms Manufacturing

comber 15 Japanese concerts This revolver has serial

number 715.=*

The National Police Agency of Japan was requested

to determine to whom this revolver was shipped by the

manufacturer, and the following letter was forthcoming

from that agency::

pio"

ALL INFC TIAN CONTAIUND

KRCIN IS UNCLASSINED

5994 Docld:32989731 Page 147

---

## Page 148

• ME 44-1987

On June 10, 1968,

HI. MILA SVOBODA;

owner,

Liberty Arms Company and Solingen Cutlery Conpany, Post = 195

Office Box 306, Montrose, California, advised that

Liberty revolver #715 had been sold to R. TATUM, New and

Used Guns,

118 Edwards Drive, Mableton, Georgia, on

October 3,

1966, under Invoice No. 13909.

On June 11,

1968; Mr. ROBERT TAUN

18.

Edwards

Street,

Mableton, Georgta, advised SA

that the Liberty

• Chief revolver having serial

number 115

had been sold by

him on Dacember 3

1966, for'$50.00 to

WALTER E. SPAIN

arminghan, Alabana.

!??!

- 19-78010

58

5994 Docld:32989731 Page 148

---

## Page 149

NATIONAI. POLICE AGENCY,

%. 2 Chome, Kasumigascki

Chiyada ku. "Tokyo

Japan

INTERPOT.

NATIONAL, CENTRAL BUREAU

Telegraphic Address:

"INTERPOLJAPAY TOKYO"

TONYO, June 20, 1968,

gill Atenche

incrican ambassy

Re: Information about a risto?

"Liberty-Chiof" No. 715

Dear Sir;

In reply to your colopione request made this sorning

concerning the captionca matter, ve wish to infora you as follows:

1. Destination of this weapon's shimment:

This pistol in question vas shipped fros the marufacturing

company given below on August 3, 1966, and was cleared by our .

Custons! inspection on August 19, 1965 and was loaded on the

NILAVANA-MARUM at "SUMA-DONT" in lyogo Prefecture for sbipeat to:

Naze of a company: LIBERTY NUIS CORPORITION.

Address: F.O. BOx, 306, MONIRCEL, CALIFURNIA, U.S. do

2. Itcas for your reference:

The nime of this voszon's mamfacturing compuny is "WBUSHINI

kaish, mikonu seannosio" (translated in english i sardau

MANUFACTURING COMPANY LIN. J.

Address: 180, antid-cho, nurd-urt,

SUCH PRISECTURE, JAYAN.

Name of the t'rcsident: alu chsyois.

Trusting the above information is of sone assistance

to you.

Yours sincerely,

for Wall, Noise JAPAR:

51

Criminal kesci

o satistics Section

Crininal Investigation Burcau

1-52DocldH41896age 149

---

## Page 150

F'D-302 (Ho

4-15-84)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

June. 20,

1968

WALTER E. SPAIN, i

North,

Birmisghan, Alabana, furnished

the following:

Sometime in December, 1966,

SPAIN went to Atlanta,

George, with his father, HAulER LEON SPaIN, so his father

could attempt to obtain erployment.

While in Atlanta,

WALTER E. SPAIN saw an advertisenent in a newspaper for a

•38 caliber Ilberty snub-nose revolver, which was being

sold by a gun dealer in a small town outside Atlanta,

believed to be Mapleton, Georgia.

SPAIN, accompanied by

his father, went to this gun dealer and bought the gun and

SPAIN returned it to his residence in Birmingham, Alabama.

In the Spring of 1967, SPAIN gave the gun to his

father in partial payment of a debt he owed to his father.

ne 2 a don

SPAIN was later told by his father that he had sold the

gun after placing a want ad for it in a Birmingham newspaper.

SPAIN was not present when his father sold the gun and

therefore did not see the purchaser.

6/11/68

_ Birmingham, Alabama

SA

SA

and

File #

BH 44-1740

ME 44-1987

by-

= Date dictated.

6/14/68

-"This document contains

naither rocommendations nor conclusions al the FBlI1 la sha property d the F8l and ls toanad to your agency:

# and dis conlonis ara nollo ba distributed oulaldo your agency.

---

## Page 151

-92 TROI

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

June 20, 1968

WALTER LEON SPAIN,

Birminghaw,

Alabama, furnished the following:

In the Spring of 1967, SPAll's son, WALTER E. SPAIN;

gave st: SPAIN a .38 caliber Liberty snub-nose revolver,

which his son had purchased in late 1966 or early 1967 from

a gun dealer near Atlanta, Georgia.

His son owed hir. SPAIN

some money and the gun was a partial payment of this debt.

In the fall of 1967, after having been hospitalized

in August, 1967, at Huntsville, Alabama, for an illness and

being in

need of money to pay bills, ur. SPAIN sold many

personal items by means of placing want ads for these items

in the "Birmingham News."

Among the items sold was the .38

caliber Liberty snub-nose revolver.

ME. SPAIN recalled he

placed an ad for this gun in a sunday paper, and that same

Sunday he received a call from a man who asked about the gun,

the price, and the directions to get to SPAIN's residence.

The caller said he was in the western section of Birmingham.

About an hour after this call, and while SPAIN's wife and

daughter were at church, & man came to the front door and

said he had called about the gun. He looked at the gun,

stated he had been looking for a gun of the same type,

and

when told again that the price was $65.00, he gave SPAIN

two twenty dollar bills, two ten dollar bills, and a five

dollar bill, after saying he would take it.

SPAIN did not

give the man a receipt for the money, nor did he record his

nane or see any identification of the man, and he did not

obtain any information as to his rame.

The man left carry.ag

the gun in his hand. SPAIN furnished neither ammunition nor

any papers for the gun.

When the man first arrived, SPAIN observed he had

any further attention to the car.

SPAIN did recall the

buyer saying he lived in the western section of Birmingham,

-but-ho-did-not-montion-any-specific-addressar emplayment

Or

6/11/68

SA

• SA

by-

Birmingham, Alabama

and

_FIlo #

BH 44-1740

ME 44-1987

53

• Dato dictated

6/14/68

This documans contoine neithor recommendationa nor conclusions ol tha F8L M la the proporty of sha FBi and la loonad to your agency:

Mond its conionis are nolla bo distribulad oviside your agency.

MW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 151

---

## Page 152

2

BH 44-2740

The tuyer said he wanted the

gun to keep around his house.

Mr. SPAIN described the buyer as a whito male, about forty

to forty-five years of age, 5'8" or 5'9" tall, 170 to 175

pounds, dark dair slightly graying at the temples, with

local

Alabama,

accent.

The man was wearing a sport shirt

and slacks, colors unrecalled, and he did not have glasses.

Mr. SPAIN was shown five different photographs

Of JANES EARL RAY, and he chose one which had been taken in

California during January or February, 1968, as "resembling

the man" who bought the revolver; however, Mr. SPAIN would

not make a definite identification of the

photograph of RAY

as the buyer.

Mr. SPAIN recalled he was contacted by FBI Agents

• on April ?, 1968, and shown an artist's conception of an

individual

the FBI was attempting to locate.

At that time,

he advised Agents the drawing reminded him of someone he may

have seen previously, but was unable to furnish any other

identifying information. After viewing the photographs of

JAIS EARL RAY and being questioned about the sale of the

revolver, SPAIN said he was now able to connect the sale

of the revolver with the drawing in that the person depicted *

in the drawing reminded SPAIN of the person to whom he had

sold the revolver.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 152

---

## Page 153

450001+

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date

June 20, 1968

All Sunday issues of "The Birmingham News"'"for

the months of

at "The Birmingham News."

determined that only one want ad for a .38 caliber revolver

was placed by WALTER LEON SPAIN, that being in the October 1,

1968,

issue.

On.

6/11/68

SA

SA

_at.

Birmingham, Alabama

and

_Filo #

BH 44-1740

ME 44-1987

55

6/14/68

by

- Date dictoted

This document contoins neither recommendalions nor conclusions of the

#l and its conlents are not lo be distribuled oulside your agency.

F81 1l is the proporty of the fBl and is looned to your aponty:

69224 Docid:5298921-Bage

---

## Page 154

ME

44-1987

:

- -.

V. IDENTIFICATION RECORD AND DESCRIPTION

90

ALI INFORMATION CONTATITI

DATE S120184

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 154

---

## Page 155

498: 1401987

The folloring is subjoct's identification record

as furnished

• the FBI

Identification Division on April 23,

1958, under FBT A 405 942 G:

CONTITIRMON OF NASE AND ARRESTEN

CHANGE

DISPOSITION

TINGCRPRINTS

NUNTEX

ARGEIVER.

2/310/38

Ray

#16 163 129

sheriff's

ortice los

hugeles,

Cal11.

Dia T05

angeles

Calit

James Earl

Pay #5-119908

10/11449

suspicion

of burgJary

James Earl

Kay #139648

10/11/19

suspicion

459 Penal

(burglary)

8 months County

Juil suspended;

2 years proba-

tion serveu:

first 90 days

County Jail:

146 12/30/49

05129438

1us sedar

Faples, 10-2

10 AJton,

111.

pp Chicago

I11

, Cerol: County

Jail chicago

-191

Sette Penin

tentiaxy,

leiliot, 111.

sawes t. Ray s:78/38

#5937

James Fail

7.23/51

Ray #7514

James Ray

#D90696

James Ray

#131.165

5/6/52

5/9/52

James E. Ry

$3?414

vagrancy

no opera-

101's lic-

released to pay

later

ense - 110

City License

robbery

Grand Jury

(Gun)

$3000

robbery

6/13/52 sen-

tenced to pens-

tentiary 1 to 2

year's

robbery

1 to 2 years

6/13/52

91

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 155

---

## Page 156

18: 14-1987

CINTRIMNMION OF NAME ANT

FINGERPRINTS

NIS3ER.

над.

state beni-

lentlary

Pontiac, 111.

50 Ediards-

x111e:, I11.

iy Tiannibal

Brasauri

:al0. High-

discess, No.

USy Kansas

CIty. No.

5o Kansas

('sey Mo.

U.5. Peni-

contiary

Kan

Janes f. Riy

#19121

ARRESTED

OR

RECEL'ED

7/7/52

1952 1n

transfer

from Joliet

8/30/51

CHARGE

DISPOSITION

robbery

1 to 2 years

3/12/54

discharged

James Farl

Ray $2640

Janes I. Ray 3/23/55

#40714

James Earl

Ray #8-3376

3/23/55

James Bari

3/28/55

James Earl

Ray #29637

James Earl

Ray $72198-1,

3: 28/55

717/55

burglary

& larceny

investigation

of breaking &

entering Post

Office

cashing

released to

stolen pos- Pustal Inspec-

tal money

tor Kansas City.

orders

Мо., 3/24/55

forgery

U.S. Postal

Money Order

forgery -

Government

sentenced to 15

months custody

Attorney General

3/7/55, 3 years

and 9 months

Pust Office 3 years and 9

Lars Forge

months • 5/20/58,

Money

conditional re-

Orders

lease 3/31/59,

raximum 4/5/58,

conditional re-

lease on charge

of Post Office

forgery Post

Office

Money

Orders

In st.

Но.

James farl

Ray

$81071

10/10/59

92

suspicion

of robbery

NW. 65994 Docid:32989737 Page 156

---

## Page 157

ME: 44-1987

CONTRIJNITOR OF

FINGERPRINTS

NAME AND

NUMBER

ARRESTED

RECEIVED

10/16/59

CHARGE

DISPOSITION

so st. louis

116.

Rãy #81071

state peni-

rentiary

letterson

City, do.

JamEs ENII

Ray #00416

3/17/60

suspicion

of robbery

stealing &

fugitive

othar

authorities

"*IC"

operating

motor vehi-

cle without

permission

of orner

robbery first

"'b/m DDN"

(2 charges)

20 years 120,

7, 5, cona.

current)

93

---

## Page 158

NF. 14-1987

The following is a description of the subject,

silained fron sources; set out elsewhere in this report:

Nese:

Sex:

Race:

Date of Birth:

place of Birth:

Height:

Keight:

Hair:

Eyes:

social securday No.:

Army Serial Nunber:

FBI Number:

JAMES EARL RAY, aka

Male

•White

March 10, 1928

Alton, Illlnois

5'10"

163 - 174 pounds

BrOWN

Blue

334-22-6876

16 163 129

405

• 942 G

94

Wes99x. Docld: 32989731 "Page 158

---

## Page 159

TRIEDAL BUREAS OF ISVESTIGATION

VIASHINGTON, D.C. 20557

üRiu

•7=20-68 560.2

100070

Thi fellowing FEl record, NUMBER

105:942 G

• is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

Informction shown on this ld'enlificalien Record represens dale fürnishied.FBl by fingerprint contribuiors. WHErE

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOW OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICATE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRiNTS.

CONTRDUTON OF

FINGERPRINTS

NAHE ANO ¡TUMBER

ARRESTED O7

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISPOSITION

Arry

Sheriff's Office

Angoles,

Califoraia

Janes Ear'l Ray:

#16 163 129

Janes Darl Ray

#B-119908

february

19, 1946

October

17, 1949

suspicion of

burglary

Police Department

ios Angeles,

california

James Ear! Ray

#139518

October

11; 1949

suspicion

459 Penal Code

(burglary)

8 months Cour

Jail suspende

2 years.

probation

served; firs

90 days Cous:

Ja1l; 146

December: 30,

1949 (512943

sieriff's Office

Sular Rapids, Iowa

lice 'Department

•eton, 111in015

James E. Hay

#5937

James Earl Ray

#7514

April 18,

1950

July 23,

1951

vagrancy

siice Department

c2go, Illinois

• uk County Jail

Kicago, Illinois

James Ray

#D90696

james Bay

itate Penitentiary

• list, I11in015

tu penitentiary

•stine, Illinois

James E.

#32419

James

• E.

#19121

Hay

Ray

Nay 6,

1952•

May

9, v

1952

June 13,

1952

July

7,

1952

in

transfer

from

Joliot

no operator's

license - no

State License -

no City License

robbery (Gun)

rcleased to :

later

robbery

robbery

Grand Jury

$3000

June 13, 195.

sentenced to

penitentiaiy

7:t0:2 yeats

I to'2 year

robbery

I-to-2 years

barch 12, 19

discharged

AIL INTE

7999

SASSINED

_BY

10290p1s

Notations indicated by ' are NOT bosui on fingerprints in FBI files but are listed only as investigative leads as

being possibly identical with subject of tihis record.

• John Edgar Hoover

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page, 159

Director

---

## Page 160

= 8,

THONYON

MASHHOTO:, C.С. 40537

7-26-68_560

The following FBI record, NUMDER

135 912 G

, is furnished FOR. OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

Information shown on this Identification Record ropresents dala furnished FB) by fingerprin contribuioss. VilERe

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNiCATE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTRIIUTOR OF

FINGERTRINTS

NUHE AND NUMBER

ARRESTED OX

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISPOSTION

Sherift's Office

Savardsville,

Iginois

Police Department

Kannibal,

Missouri

James Earl Ray

#2640.

August

30, 1954

burglary and

larceny

Janes E.

#40714

Ray

State Highway

Patrol

Bacon, Missours

James Earl Ray

#B-3376

warch 23

1955

investigation

of. breaking and

entering Post

Office.

• go

March 23,

cashing stolen

1955

postal money

orders

United States

Sarshal

Kansas CIty,

Missouri

Sheriff's Office

Kansas City,

Missouri

United States

Penitentiary

Leavenworth;

Kansas

Janes Earl Ray '

#12018

Janes Earl. Ray

#29637

James Earl Ray

#72198-L

Barch 28,

forgery United

1955

States Postal.

Noney Order

March

28

1955

July 7,

1955

Forgery -

Government

Post Office

Laws

Forge:: Honey

Orders.

released to

Postal Inspec

Kangas City,

waXch 24: 195:

sentenced to

us months

custody of

Attorney Gene:

биду 7, 1955

s years and

nonths

s years and s

ponths day 20,

1958 conditio:

release barch

1959 maxinum

April 5; 1958

conditional

release on cha

of Post Office

forgery Post

office honey

Priers

Police Departuent

saint Louis,

dissouri

James Earl Ray

#81071

Cctober

10, 1959

suspicion of

robbery

Notations indicated by ° are NOT bosed on fingerprints in FBI files but are listed only as investigativa leads os

'being possibly idenlical with subject of this record.

John Edgar Hoover

Director

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 160

---

## Page 161

reward

WASNOTON, D.C.

26337

7-26-65 561

The following FDI record, NUMBER

405 942 G

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

• Information shown on this Identification Record represents data furnished FBl by fingerprin; cortribuiors. VilERE

FINAL DISPOSITION IS. NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICATI

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTNSUTOR 07

FINGERPRINTS

NAME AND NUMSER

ARRESTED OR

RECEIVED

CHARGE

- DISPOSTION

Police Department

Saint Louis,

Missouri

James Earl. Ray..

#81071

October

16, 1959

State Penitentiary

Jefferson City,

Missouri

Janes Earl Ray

#00416

March 17,

1960

suspicion of

robbery

stealing and

fugitive other

authorities

"IC"

operating notor

vehicle without

permission of

owner

rObbery first

"b/S DDYY"

(2 charges)

20 years 121

т, 5,

concurrent)

ApriL 23, 19

escaped

State Hospital®

Nunber 1

Fulton, Missouri

So Memphis Tenn!

James Earl Ray

#37045 C-5

Sopterber-Patient

8,, 1966°

James Earl Ray

' 39728

7-19-68

murder Ist deg

Notations indicated by ' are NOT based on fingerprinis in FBI files but are listed only os investigative leads o:

being possibly identical with subject of this record.

John Edgar Hoover

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 161

3

Director

---

## Page 162

The following FBI record, NUMBER

405 942 G

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE O:,

Information shown on this Identificatión Record ropresents data furnished FBI by fingerprini contribulors. Vita

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICA

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINYS.

CONTRIBUTOR OF

ARRESTED OR

FINGERPRINTS

NAHE AND NUMBER,

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISPOSITIONi

WALITDD.:

James farl' Ray for escape 1-23-67

loper My wo perm of orner; robb ist deg

bm'of a D & Di, (will extradite) Notify

Warden SPen Jefferson City Mo inf rec

5-10-67

NO LONGER WANTEl per inf-rec 7-19-63

Notations indicated by * are NOT based on fingerprinis in FSI files bur are listed only as investigalive leads es

: being possibly idontical with subject of this record.

• John Edgor Hoover

Director

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 162

---

## Page 163

Iliat tir

• WASHRSION, D.C.

20537

7-2.6-68

405 942 G

The foliowing FBl record, NUMBER

, is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE O

Information shown on this ldentification fiecord represents dato furnished FBI by fingerprint confribulois, Vi

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNIS

WITH AGENCY CONTRISUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTRSUTOR OF

ARRESTED. OR

FINGERPRINTS

NAHE AND NUMBER

RECEIVED

CHARGE

• DISPOSTION

CC:

Warden

SPen

Jefferson City No

Notations indicated by * are NOT based on fingerprints in F81 filos but are listed only as investigative leads

being possibly identical with subject of this record.

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 'Page 163

S:

John Edgar Hoover

MirantAr

---

## Page 164

JEKAL GUXEAU OF INVESVIGATION

. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20337

"*=.

* . .

Tho following FBI record, NUMBER.: 368 725 A.

"reat"

: is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

Information shown on this Identification Rocord represents data furnished FBI by fingerprint contributors. WHERE

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICATE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTEBUTOR OF

FINGERPRINTS:

NAHE AND HUMDER

ARRESTED OR

RECEIVED

CHARGE

'DISPOSITION

State Police

Igonies

Indiana

Jack Larry

Rayns

#2-16412

s.

state Reformatory

Pendleton

John 1. Rayns

#35297

indiana

Police, Depariment Johnny Larty

Holtville

Caiifornia

#1341

Police Department Johnny Ray

Quincy Illinois

1 2

•

| State

lienitentiary

benard Illinois

John Rya!

#23401

State Highway

Patrol

Kirkwood

Missouri

Johr. Larry Ray

#C-10670

Police Departnent.

Highland

Slinois

John Larry Ray

#415

Folice Department

Saint louis

missouri

John Larry Ray

#112763-7.

December

30, 1949

second degree

burglary

January

24, 1950

second degree

burglary

2-5 years

December

•sleeper

3, 1952

released

April 7,

1953

larceny of

autonobile

continued tó

Circuit Court

$1,000 bond

June t, 195s 1 sear to

20 years finiman 5 jears

to lo yeats lilinois

penitentiary, lenard

Branch

June 2,

1953

larceny

motor vehicle

5-10 years"

discharsed

Eckruary 1,

2950

November

_Investigation

8, 1961

of burglary

and larceny

released

Noverber 9,

1961

March 9,

1962

investigation

relcased

November

25, 1967

common assault

"Mull" City

ACL INFORMATION CONCAINED

HEREIN IS UNCLASSIELED

.BY-

Norations indicated by " are NOT based on fingerprinis in FBI files bus are listed only as investigalive leads as

being possibly identicol with subject of this record.

IDENTIFICATION DIVISIN!

---

## Page 165

+ (R8701)-26-67)

2

UNITE STATES DEPARTMMENT OF JUT CE

DERAL BUPEAU OF INVESTIGATION

* WASHINGTON, D.C. -20537

1: 5=4-77-765.1018

The following FBI record, NUMBER

*368 725'A

, Is furnished FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.

Information shown on this Identification Record represents data furnished FBI by fingerprint contributors." WHERE

FINAL DISPOSITION IS NOT SHOWN OR FURTHER EXPLANATION OF CHARGE IS DESIRED, COMMUNICATE

WITH AGENCY CONTRIBUTING THOSE FINGERPRINTS.

CONTHIRUTOR OF

ARRESTED OR

FINGERPRINTS

"HUHE AND MUMBEX

RECEIVED

• CHARGE

DISPOSITION

'so torphis Fern

L's:

st Charles Mo

John Larry Pay

$39794

Join Larry Ray

F393 3753:

Jerry willian

Ryan

8-2-68

inquiry SCSO

10-27-70 bank robbrry

18 grs U.S.

District Crt

10-26-70

susp bank rob

USP

Leaverworth Hans

-US? Varion iL

John Larry Ray.

#86798-132

Johh-Larry Ray

86793-132

6-3-71

Bank Robbery

7-12-73 bank rob

18 years

18 j'rs

Salations indicated by * ore NOT bosed on fingerprints in FBI files but are listed only os investigalive leads os

650 Bab identic i herbject of this record.

---

## Page 166

Therellowing FBI record, 'NUMBER

862:651 d

, is fu.nished FOR OFFICiAL USE CAl!.

loimation shoven on this Identification Record represents dolo furished Fel by linguscini concibutois. Ne

MINAL DISPOSITION IS NOI SHOWN OR FURTHER ERIANATON CE CHANGE IS DESHEO, COLNOURNCAGE

WITH AGENCY CONTROUTING THOSE FINGERPRUŸS. -

SADIE AND NESDET.

Вінт Ой

LECTINEN

DISPOSIION

P0 Cains: i2a

Saca Steridan I22.

• Pontiac I11

Jerry, and Pyar

cary iilliar. Fyan

1254

Jermy Ryan

725737.

Jerry Ryan

#20229

3-22-52

9-20-51

По!"

2-26-5÷

2200

" denard I12

Jerry Ryan

723737

¿ Hug pai tacon

Jerry William

Ryan #8-4329

Jefferson City

¡Jerry l12l1am

Ryan

#71354

4-8-54

trans

{r

denara

12-30-54

2-24-56°

larc

2-25-53

ÜSt.

2-10

12-12-25

paño:

disea

- 5-59

2-5 yrs

7-21-56

2-5 3x3

Armed 20bs (asseant t0'5 yes

degree).

180 SP 7-19-55

Circuit Cro:

armed robb, bri.

ja1l

SEx 8-1-53

• renard Ill

Jerry Ryan

423737

8-1-50

=-5.

*..

; Highlara Ill

Texty tilltan tay

3-9-62

iav & operating

*426

on 2 st lic plute

Jerry william Ray' 8-20-53| FO PL

$92720

$100 ₴ $5 C

zei

Di denpais Tonn

7-5-68

D:

dism 7-9-69

in denghis dema

Ray #205533

Jrry Milllen

RY &39752

7-25-681

IDCNTIFICATION DIVISION

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 166

---

## Page 167

3-14-64

rent is the less disner clus for conutle. in

ischi discitagetig thie Is Thig core i rised like to

if you and the Cersmitten that a tened Erquate it eng

This dus to the eraul. Chintme in the guilt plue.

tra cat 1u bioloon the caster tries

aid the soup face by of tir. tuisis sandy bertunis

This the factl

mi is the scari the pitin at on date corn cutor

I at the Luis priest a mie.

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT SENT TO

NATIONAL ARCHIVES (JFKARCA)

DATE 16/14/990

le: HSCA

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 167

---

## Page 168

Hught bever ging th le, deline ip you think yos

gi di sei da aquiel in ar tutto santesita

di piati de sotto copiati ed 2 sinhos fut

Des Fatti inge cout tet liblit trattasse,

Basti uniti pri canespigio de sinteti c/

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 168

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## Page 169

030298

3-14-69

Dear Senator Eastland;

I read in the local newspaper where your committee is considering

investagating the Dr. King case. I would like to inform you and the

committed that I would cooperate in any such hearing. However, at

the time I am going to attempt to get the guilty plea set aside, I know

that the odds against having this done are greatly against me. But I

think due to the unusual circumstances in the guilty plea it mite be

possible. I personaly did not shoot Dr. King but I believe I am partly

responsible for his death. I will briefly attempt to explain why I

entered the guilty plea. At the time Mr. Pery Foreman aggred to

take over the defense from Mr. Arthur Hanes we had a verbal

agreement that their would be no guilty plea, as I wanted to try the

case in court. I had every reason to believe during the first two

months Mr. Foreman was on the case their would be a trial, during

that period Mr. Foreman had me sign a new contract with him and .

Mr. Huie giving Mr. Foreman all the money from any of Mr. Huie's

money making ventures. ( had sign another contract with Mr. Huie

and Mr. Hanes) Shortly after this Mr. Foreman came to visit me

and he had a picture for me to look at.

This picture was about

.8 x 10 in. Ms. Foreman said Mr. Huie had given him the picture

and that Mr. Hule had got the picture from someone in the federal

government.

• The picture contain 2 or & men followed by two or

policemen. Mr. Foreman described on of the men in the picture -

as an 'anti cornmunist cuban refugee who was arrested at the time

president Kennedy was shot. The arrest took place in Dallas I was

told" I was asked il I would identify the man if he was brought to

Memphis. I said no, althoe he did look similar to the person I was .:

• Involved with. Alter I wouldn't identify this man, about all I was told

was that I would go to the electric chair iT I went to trial. I was even

told my family wanted me to plead guilty, but I found out this was not

50.

But I did not plead guilty for the above reasons. I did so because

I did not want to go to trial with a lawyer who thought he was going to

lose. I believe if you think you will lose you proably will. On the day

before I plead guilty I signed another contract with Mr. Foreman. In

this one I agreed to give him $165, 000, he agreed to give my brother

=$500. 00 in the event I wanted to hire another lawyer to reopen the

case. Mr. Foreman wrote into the contract that if I embarres him

(disagreed) in the court room he could withdraw, the old contract •

'would go into effect and I would be without funds to hire another

Sic-78 -

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 169

---

## Page 170

attorney. Getting back to Mr. Huie for a minute, while Mr. Hanes

was my attorney Mr. Huie asked me through him about public figures

and various organizations. I got the impression that he thought their

was a conspiracy but he wanted to name the conspirators. And

sometime

felt that my attorneys were working for him instead of

for me. In closing I would like to say if I can't get the case reopen,

their should be an invegestion, as I have signed over $200, 000 to

attorneys and not 1/20 of the witnesses have been interview. No one

went to los Angeles of New Orleans where I think much of the

evidence lies. Mr. Foreman said in open court that he didn't

trust investigators, and the one Mr. Hanes hired never left Memphis.

I would also like to say that despite what the papers and book writer's

quote me as saying, I have no intention of discussing this case with

anyone 'verbaly' until it is closed. Il I have anything to say I will

say it in court or to lawyers, or in letter form like this letter.

Sincerely, James E. Ray.

COPY: mis

-NW.65994-DoG|d 32989731 Page 170,

..=-

---

## Page 171

3-14-09

1==.

alanliv

Daar Sanatn: Faciaui;

¿reau d de looal newcaner there joss commites la concitariny

icaamag tha ti. ling Care.

'I ricila lue to infosm you and tig

cominntss tis l rould cooparate in any ruch hoaiing. boreves, at

Mà tig inn gong to mlcml io det die guniy nisa sat roico, 110.u

"trut the o:'ãs conini inving this cono are grendy agpinst me. ECiI

thini due to the unsaal circumciences in the guilty ploz it inite.he

rosaile. I resconny dia rot chost be. King kut I bulleve Iam park&y

rorpona. são for his uscin. I tili bricily atieingt to expiain why I

entorod the guilty pon. At the lime iãr. Pary Foreman Astecaio

take over the iaiense from Vi'. Artu" Faner ue haù a vorcal

agrecment that their would ba no guilly plea, as I wanted to try the

casa in couit. I had every reason to beliore during tia fret tro

monthg Sir. Foreman was on the care their would be a trinl, during

•

thas period Mir. Foreman hau me sign a naw contrasi with kim and.

Mr. Fule giving lix. Foreman all the money iom any of iir. Fuia's

money malig veniics. (A hau sign arotor contract wia ir. Hule

end Mr. Hones) Shorily aiter this iã. Forcmar conte te visi me

and ho iad a picture for me to look at.

This pictre was about

8 x 10 ir. Ner. Foreman ozid iir. Huie has giren hir the picáure

and that dir. Huie had got the picture irom someone in the federal'

governinent. The piciure contain 2 or 3 men followeù by two or 3

policemen. Mt. Foreman deseribed en of the men in tie pictura

as an 'anti communist' cubaa refugee mão nas arresied at tie tirce

president Kennedy was shot. "T'he arrest too!: place in Dalias I ras

told" I tras astec ii I would identify the man li he tas brougit to

Memphis, I sald ro, altioe he did look similar to tre persos I 1a5

uuvolved witir.

Atter I wouldi" identiy this men, about all I was ta:d

was tani I vanld eo to the elcatrle chair ii I went to trial. I ras even

told wy famtly wantod me to pload gaity, but I found out this sas not

"80. Eut I üd nut plea cuiity for tise atove reasons. I did so bacausa

I did not ment to go to tlai wan a lawyai to thought he tras guing io

losc. I baliave it you thiak you will lose you pronly mill. On tia coy

bafore I mload mity I signed another contract with lir. Forcas, &

tủls oie I agresd to give him giut, Coo, he agreed to give may.broter

$500. C0 in tisa crent I vaited lo live arother lavyes tn reopea t:a

case. Mr. Foreman trote inio the contract that ll I chibarras him

(rssasrasd) in the court room lie coild mithcrar:, the oid contract

would go irto cifcct and I nowid ba vithout funds to hire anater

44-28861-

i!l .:

Senacnie INCLOSURE. :

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 171

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## Page 172

aLlornes.

Galdtg lnci lo inc. iule for a sauts, thila Mr. Hanes

was may silgandy vir. Hule asica me trough hira abort puttic liguies

was a congriracy but ha vaniod to neme tua couspirators. And I

sonetirie

Esle bal sas diornoys vero torkang ior alia incissa os

forme.

in clocing I touid Ilia to day itI can't get tis case reager,

their shoid la un errorustion, as I leie sigaod oves 6209, 050 to

?HOnO HO! 1/20 Ci te ThUCESES aVE baCa Linrvion. No OnO

volt to los fagsion o: New Ciloans where I thidi muci: ol tre

evidenco ling. li. loreman soid in open count that le clan't

truct terscigatses, and te one lir. Hores hircu nover lest suonarlis.

I owld ileo tise to gay tat cespite what tie papars and wook writer's

quate me as saying, I have no intention of discussing inis case wind

anyone "verbaly' unta li is ciosai.

iii have ailyting to say I will

say it in court or' to lawyers, or in letter form liko this leiter.

Sincerely, James E. Ray.

COPY:mIз

-t.,r0,191

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 172

---

## Page 173

FIPRAY 65477

N-S-LUFST

977

B 8=4m3

odjueluidke, TaNN, 82203

1::1

45Y3 152

ro1.1-

To, Leunter Fonnce 0, Entlonl

chirnon, sente fudiing committse

Wraligten, ec.

ATT. TRTAFTATTON CONTATNED

FAprnaconie

NW 65994-Doeld+32989731-Darge-17

---

## Page 174

coa: 92323-69

Dive Sien;

referent; doc

munito the le ti

Surasoli

2

FILED

CLERK

-.л:

рітасти

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 174

---

## Page 175

i. RHy

COUNTY JAIL.

MEMORIES, TEND

Exhibit 156

LIYS USE

AN COLES

Т. Э. Aitor Honce Is. Atting,

612-Frok Nelion Billy,

Bernestom; alebra

3520$

'Il just wits a shit letted to lit

you sier eveyhi; is alight, in still

Jery is coming down shout bust ongoing

To have him sint cret a see you often,

sive I want to give him then papers

ale ip you have one a ten blok

prove of attray a that his to tow ore

ofittein a will class or won.

NW 65994" Docld:32989731 Page 175

---

## Page 176

232

0502J

Sim do

Hazze

3-: 26- 62

eligen le res Bellle

Kenis, Tenninas

asil Thrit in the appun set to infil 2 edile te cut.

2 alo nel live t ting e the allostia ofitha Insulta

canes, That Wr pesy Karmy, the alling aute dese

Exhebut

B:

Nw 65994-Docid:32989731-Page-176-

---

## Page 177

2,33

-.".

Three, 2, Jee & by in tits, beat pel recal,

tus atten of the cut in No misspelle

sis dus sessic on fine pass day sures to empage

Chasel.

repetiten of Ta pay in actina.

I, GALESIA, BLICITEIL, DASSY CERTIFY DAT IE DATE PHECH APPEARS

DETER, ON THE PERSE PAGE,

Lanes Ears. Ty

Stetria: A - wet

TH 8B H03

Mechillo, Terau$2805,

FILED_

4-1-69

BLACKVELL

CLERK

38IC/784

CRAWL COURT CLERK

3D.€.

N. 10.1262

MESS

spope

Spanaciti

NW 65994 Docld:32989771-Page-177

---

## Page 178

RECORD INVOICE.

" Phone 595.2142"

AIRCRAFT AUTOMOTIVE

AEROMARINE SUPPLY CO.

MARINE-SPORTING GOODS:

5701 BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT HIGHWAY

INVOICE

PARTS & SUPPLIES

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35212

NUMBER

10

ADDRESS

OLDLENUNN

ARVEYL OLARENER

DATE 3/29

502- So

411

PICK UPK

SALESMAN

GUN

2251A

1968

4- SHIP VIAI

TERMS:

QUANTITY

5041

@CASH CHECK

17(50

L

PUME AETINITEORA RIELE, CAL

PeRPeN SeN: 29333 44147613495

2xi7X

qu:0

74.60

23?0

2032

243 Cт61

4. 65,

23.4,5.2

Howig

forreser

MR SAES AINAX MITA ATUA BATTE ERRE МЛО

далол.

TAXI

RECEIVED BY

14.22

MERCHANDISE CANNOI DE RITURNTO POX CRIUIT, RETUND OR EXCIANOI AFTER 10 DAYS FROM SALE DATE:

TOTAL b-41, 59-

PURCHASELSVOICE MUST ACCONVANY ALL RETURNS.

I.j.:

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 178

---

## Page 179

Republican Party on Georgias

secto gipance, Committee

uite 605-1439, Wes

Georgia: S0309

3-240

3-307 6

селел. 00

NONS

Tarples

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page. 179

30309

---

## Page 180

$ 19079

KCI0 2

&

13310012

HAN

880

PO. A5498 BAJV

1&250 RATORI:

NW 65994

YORK ARMS CO:

Quality being equal

Our prices are as low as

val will sind elewhere

APR M

- 08.3

5: 041.55C H

RETURH IN CASE OF

BRAOB OR EUCHANGE

8083

I GETURN IN CASE OF:

BROR AS EICHANGE:

$ 081556381

APRA

LADORATORY

---

## Page 181

Your File No.

FBI File No:

Latent Case No.

• 44-1987

44-38861

91075

April 24, 1968

RE: JAMES EARL RAY, FBI #405942G

Latent fingerprint previously reported on the

Remington model 760 rifle, serial #461476, Q2; the latent finger-

print on the telescopic sight, serial #A17350, on the rifle, Q2;

latent fingerprint on the binoculars, Q14; the latent fingerprint

on the newspaper, Q19; the latent fingerprint on the after shave

lotion bottle, part of Q2%; and the latent fingerprint on the schiltz

beer can, Q53, have all been identified with the fingerprints of

James Earl Ray.

110

895

• y

NW 65994* Docld:32989731 Page 181

---

## Page 182

-

PIEDMONT LAUNDRY

JÄckson 5-8393

Allanta, Georgiat

Name_

част

Address

Source

, о.

OLSCRIPTION

PRICE

2-PC. SUIT

TROUSEAS

OVERCOATS

SHIRTS

TIES he R.

10/ Lane 4:320 Str

JACKETS

DRESSES

BELTS

SKIRTS

BLOUSES

SUITS

COATS

SWEATERS

BLANKETS

2

RETURN F.

'Armed and Dangerous

1287

-NW-G5994-Docld:

Page 182

---

## Page 183

1=.

JAckson 5-8393

NO STARCH

LT. STARCH L

HVY. STARCH I

Shiris (2-B)

Drowess

Undashiais

Pajamas

Unios Suits

Sox ?

Handkeichie's

Polo Shirts

Sho's

Points

Coal

Jackgis

Overall Comb.

Bath Robzz

Bath Towels

Wast

Laundr

Hand to

Sheets

Pillow Cases

REG D

ON HANGERS

Diesses

19-3%"

1900

GOWES

Slasks

House Cosis

Unitoras

Belts

Kơ Stink

a freder

TOTAL

STARCH

127

NW 65994 'Docld:32989731 Page 183

---

## Page 184

1°p.r0*.00

NAME i

IN 7, 210 3.

ruelertion's 59998838

× 80. 98. (19681819

„li'

OLD

ADDRESS

698198à $2,08650

NEW -

ANERAL DILIVER 00. V414

ADDRESS

Pest 6*.68,5ta18, 68,51a18, 21P GOdd

got + 94-9468

SIGN

HERE

GENRETO HERSIDE

(111808 8598880961 -6922i8) 80A08 A0TDiretse30

.. 3

CHANGE OF ADDRESS ORDER

MAIL OR SLUGGE IS PERT GITTE OF DID ADDRESS

6A95M110 AND ALL FASCIS CE OSVICUS VALUE (aniess

-

U

SORMARGINE POSTAGE IS CSARANTIIDTOR

• IS AIMPASIN, AND MAGAZINIS

-..*

CHARGE TOR

IICIVIDJAL

••OPTIHʼA

1:88.7419141

CHANGE IS

+, LINICRARY

4-25-65

TANER: (8141055119 021

AA*IIE

Postmaster

1Pos: 09%2.

63°0)

LAMORATONY

POO RONT 3578.A81 1865

+55-16-786701

COMPLETE OTHERSIDES

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 184

---

## Page 185

CHANGE OF ADDRESS ORDER

NAIL OR DELITE TO POST OFFICE OF OLD ADOPESS

THIS ORDER FROVIDES TOR INE TORNARDING OR FIRST.

CLASS NAIL AIO ALL CASGEES OF DEVIOUS VALUE CURESS

you or the gander duect otherwise?

TORWARDING POSTAGE IS GRARANTELE FOR

I NEWSPATIKE AND MAGAZINES

CHANCE FOR

CHAYSE IS

UNTIL (Give dale)

4-25-68

INCORSEMENT OF CLERK OR CARVILR

LOATEENTERED

80D Form $575, Aps. 1965

+55+16-74070-1

Postmaster

(Posi Otice. Serie, 80d ZHP G69C)

COMPLETE OTHERSIDET

---

## Page 186

+ 5445946475 rite titan.

Licctve Site

NAME

OLD

ADDRESS

NEW

ADDRESS

GALT, BRIC S.

Print or Type -Last Name Fust

HOLSO NO, and STICEE, ADE NO.: 0f BOX Or K.D. NO. (la C3r6 01)

3533=üQLLYI00D, BLVD..

Post Ounce, State, and ZiP Code

1450/ 2/6

per

HOLLYWOOD, C.235.90028

tiGase No. and Street, ADt No."' Or Bax or R D. As. fin care 01)

GRIERAL DILIVERY MAIL POSE OURIOS

Fost Ctice, State, and ZiP Code

ALANTA, CORGIA.-

814 signed as agent, inciuda tie) to NOT priater typ

HERE

x Erud. Dalt

COMPLETE OTHER SIDE

i :1.

---

## Page 187

From Haren" File -

onguial in

Cntec possessin

-Date

FLAMINGO MOTEL

Selma, Alabama

Wl22-68

Room No.

8.0e

32

8.32

Make of Car Suitry

State albino

• License No_/38493

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Pagé 187

---

## Page 188

JAckson S-8393

PIEDMONT LAUNDRA CO

Allania, Georgiro «Dale-

Address

Source.

3J-20J

SCRIPTIOY

3PC. SUIT

2-PC. SUlT

COAS

TROUSERS

OVERÇOÂTS

SHORTS

JACKETS

DRESSES

BELTS

SKIRTS

BLOUSES

SUITS

COATS

SWEATERS

BLANKETS

5.

2.5

RETURN &

слво

=

755

Arned and Dangerous

1287

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page- 188

---

## Page 189

Nome.

ric, Fact!

MARKER

- LOT

PIY NO.

82

NOT TARCH L REG U

• M .T.

.

LT. STARCH [

ON HANGERS

430

HVY. STARCH I

FLUFF DRY

Shizs (2-3)

Daswers

Undershirt

Pajamas

Union Suits

Sor Da

Kendiersis:

Polo Shirts

Sta:ts

Hassa Caels

Urilosos

B:les-

Panis

Coot

Jackals

Ore:a:! Carb.

Reih Robes

Bath Toi

no starte

falded

Ves.

Hand:

Shae's

Pillow Coses . I

TOTAL

STARCH

127

NW 65994 Docld:32989731. Page 189

505

---

## Page 190

Q173

CHANGE OF ADDRESS ORDER

MAIL OR DELIVER TO POST OFFICERS OLD ADDRESS

-THIS ORDER PROVIDES FOR THE FORWAROING OF FIRST-.

•CLASS MAIL AND ALL PARO

ELS' OF OSTIOUS, VALUE (uBles?

you or the sender duect othei Niss)

FORMARDINGPO:

FACE IS

GUARANTEED FOR

27 MENSPAPERS AND'MAG

AZINES

CHECK'I

"_CHANGE-FOR

O-OR FIRM

ENTIRE FAMIYA DI

INDIVIDUAL

SIGNER ONLY

" L~CHANGE IS

[PERMAMENT

TEMPORAI

•E-UNTIL (Give dal

÷ 4-25-68

ENDORSEMEMT OF CLERK OR CARRIEX

DATE ENTERED

"nit

JOD Ferna 3578, Ape. 1963

+36-28-785701

Postmaster

(Post Otice, Slate, sa6 ZIP Code)

COMPLETE ÖTHER SIDE!

'Isectere Doll

NAME

•OLD

•ADDRESS

*..

NEW:

ADDRESS

GALT, ERIC S.

Priat or Type -Last Name First

House Mo, 20d StEel, Apl Ma; Or Box or 20. Na (le Care 0s).

5533-H0I.LYHOOD, BiND.

Post Orice, Stale, 800 21P Code

HOLLYWOOD, CAlif.90028

If House Ma, sad Street, All Ma, Or BOX Or RD. Mo. (In Care.

GENERAL"-DILIVERY MAIN POST OFFICE

Post Ollice, Stale,

nad Zi8, Code

ALANTA, GEORGIA;

(11 signed as agent, saclade tie) Do Not priat of typ

SIGN

HERE

COMPLETE OTHER SIDE

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 190

---

## Page 191

CHANGE'OF ADDRESS"ORDER

MAIL OR DELIVER TO POST. DESICEN

VOLO ADDRESS;!

PRO RETOR REE SON

16 OF FIRS

LU PARCEAS

* NW 65994 Docld:3298971

---

## Page 192

PR

NOOD

90028

POSI ORFICE

ARRR

HERE

COMPLITE OTHER SIDE

NW 65994 Docld:32

---

## Page 193

ou THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL

King Chalenges LBJ Going To Hawaii Today

Court Restrain!,

To Consult On Peace Moves,

Yows To March

Set Stage For Red Meeting

US Wary Of Bid To Talk

HANOTORTER OF TAERS:

Of Peace Ob Enemy Terras

• LAMES!

ACCEPTEDEY JOHNSON

Tornado Strikes

Near Millington;

; At Least 30 Hur

на ит

Park Proute OK

Bold Lodges

3102

NW, 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 193

---

## Page 194

NOTICE TO GUESTS:

REGISTRATION CARD

1ez0-v0s riçbl lo setusa

doaia or isjury lo guasie os

RENTAL PAYABLE IN ADVANCE

Mns Erici

Stiet

STREr 2 608 tligllend aie

c Birmuglose

_STATE OCobmi"

REPRESENTING.

T4 B 11 35972

AISETICIS LANNS BELIFURE CA

CAR LICENSE

CIJCBEAJ0

STATE

lai

ssuvers

eta5

MAKE OFCAI

1A shese

';'.. :

NW 65594*Döcld:32989/31 Page 194

---

## Page 195

File

Folt. E.3,

AIFUYE

37.

6:24

MI8G.

LAUNOnT

4

NW 65994

Id:32989731

•nge:

---

## Page 196

NW 65994 Docld:32989731 Page 196

62-117290-1103

---