The Time Bonnie And Clyde Rampaged In West Texas

West Texas -- In the 1930s, the United States was a very different place than it is today in 2025. The Great Depression left the majority of the country out of work, and regular law-abiding citizens found themselves in a situation where they had to do whatever it took to survive. This includes breaking the law.

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Besides the Great Depression itself, the story of the criminal duo of Bonnie (Parker) and Clyde (Barrow) has been a story that has been romanticized throughout both history and popular culture.  They gained infamy by their robberies, kidnappings, and murders between 1932 - 1934, where they were eventually killed by Louisiana police who ambushed them in 1934.

Bonnie and Clyde In West Texas

During their rampage across the country, Bonnie and Clyde did have run-ins in West Texas.  In June of 1933, roughly halfway through their reign of terror, they were driving through Wellington, Texas.  Wellington, Texas, is located about 102 miles Southeast of Amarillo.  The duo, along with other members of their gang, were driving in a stolen vehicle when they unexpectedly fell into a river when they attempted to cross an unfinished bridge.  A family that lived close by saw the incident and attempted to help, not knowing that the car was filled with murderous criminals wanted by the law.

When law enforcement arrived, Bonnie and Clyde disarmed the sheriff and the police chief and took them hostage.  During the skirmish, one of the family members who tried helping the gang was shot, and the family vehicle was disabled to prevent pursuit.

This event was later known as "The Red River Plunge."