Billy the Kid's last words were "¿Quien es?" (Who is it? Who is it?), uttered in the darkness just before he was fatally shot by Sheriff Pat Garrett on July 14, 1881.
The notorious outlaw, also known by names such as Henry McCarty and William H. Bonney, was at the home of Pete Maxwell in Fort Sumner, New Mexico, seeking food. Unbeknownst to him, Sheriff Garrett was already inside, waiting.
The Final Moments of a Legend
The confrontation that led to Billy the Kid's demise was swift and unexpected. As he entered a darkened room in Maxwell's house, he noticed a shadowy figure. Reportedly, he drew his revolver and, in the dim light, spoke his final inquiry: "¿Quien es?" (Who is it? Who is it?).
At that crucial moment, Pete Maxwell, who was present, whispered to Garrett, "That's him," confirming the identity of the infamous fugitive. With this immediate confirmation, Sheriff Pat Garrett drew his weapon and fired, bringing an abrupt end to the life of one of the most fabled figures of the American Old West.
Key Figures in the Fatal Encounter
The table below summarizes the roles of the central individuals involved in Billy the Kid's last moments:
| Figure | Role in Event | Details of Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| Billy the Kid | The victim; sought food | Spoke his last words, "¿Quien es?" before being shot. |
| Pat Garrett | The shooter; Sheriff | Lay in wait for Billy the Kid and fired the fatal shot. |
| Pete Maxwell | Witness; provided identification | Identified Billy the Kid to Garrett with a whispered "That's him." |
This concise exchange underscores the sudden and conclusive nature of his death, making his final words a memorable detail in the lore of the Wild West.
