Kitty's Killing

Originally Aired: February 2, 1958

In Gunsmoke #304, "Kitty's Killing," a religious zealot named Jacob Leach arrives in Dodge City consumed with righteous fury. Believing himself to be an instrument of divine justice, Leach demands that Chester lock him in jail to prevent him from killing a man named Ollie Radford, whom he considers a sinner deserving of death. Marshal Matt Dillon agrees to keep Leach confined overnight, hoping the temporary imprisonment will give Radford time to leave town. The marshal soon learns that Radford was once married to Leach's sister, who died in childbirth, and Leach blames him for her death.

The situation grows more dangerous when Radford reveals he's brought his new wife to Dodge City so Doc Adams can attend her during her pregnancy. Matt works to keep the two men apart, telling Leach that Radford has already left town. However, when Radford's wife goes into premature labor and Chester rushes to find Doc, Leach overhears the news at the Long Branch Saloon. Now enraged by what he sees as the marshal's deception and protection of a sinner, Leach vows to kill both Radford and Matt Dillon himself.

Welcome to Gunsmoke: Old West Stories, a podcast that takes you back to the rugged plains of 1870s Dodge City, Kansas. Rediscover the timeless tales of bravery, justice, and survival in the American frontier with our re-broadcasts of the classic Gunsmoke radio program.

First airing on April 26, 1952, Gunsmoke was celebrated as the first adult western radio show, renowned for its superb storytelling and exceptional production quality. Join Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by the incomparable William Conrad, as he faces the challenges of maintaining law and order in a tumultuous town. Alongside him are unforgettable characters like Chester Proudfoot (Parley Baer), the steadfast deputy; Kitty (Georgia Ellis), the resilient saloon owner; and Doc Adams (Howard McNear), the town’s compassionate physician.

What sets Gunsmoke apart is not just its stellar cast and engaging plots but the immersive sound effects that bring each scene to life. Every gunshot, horse gallop, and whisper of the wind transports you directly to the heart of the Old West.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, Gunsmoke: Old West Stories promises to deliver gripping adventures and a nostalgic journey through one of radio’s most iconic series. Tune in and let the legends of Dodge City captivate your imagination.