September 26 in history marks the arrest of notorious American gangster Machine Gun Kelly, whose real name was George Kelly Barnes, following a high-profile criminal career during the Prohibition era.
Machine Gun Kelly reportedly surrendered to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on September 26, 1933. According to historical accounts, he allegedly shouted, “Don’t shoot, G-Men!” as he gave himself up. The expression later became associated with FBI agents, who were popularly referred to as “G-Men.”
Who Was Machine Gun Kelly?
George Kelly Barnes, better known as Machine Gun Kelly, was an American gangster from Memphis, Tennessee, who became notorious during the Prohibition era. His nickname was linked to his use of a Thompson submachine gun, a weapon commonly associated with criminals during the period.
Kelly became particularly infamous for the kidnapping of oil businessman Charles F. Urschel in July 1933. Kelly and his gang reportedly demanded and collected a $200,000 ransom for Urschel’s release.
The kidnapping case became a major breakthrough for federal investigators after Urschel reportedly preserved important evidence that helped authorities trace the perpetrators. The investigation ultimately led the FBI to Kelly’s arrest in Memphis on September 26, 1933.
Machine Gun Kelly’s Criminal Activities
In addition to kidnapping, Machine Gun Kelly was associated with several other crimes during the Prohibition era, including bootlegging, armed robbery and organized criminal activity.
His arrest became one of the notable moments in the history of the FBI and American organized crime, highlighting the federal government’s growing efforts to pursue high-profile criminals during the 1930s.
On This Day in History: September 26, 1933, remains significant in American crime history as the day notorious gangster Machine Gun Kelly was captured by federal authorities.
Source: newsthemegh.com