The events leading to the gunfight began a mile south, at the Rio Grande which divided the U.S. and Mexico.
The missing cattle belonged to a wealthy Mexican rancher who hired the armed posse to locate them.
El Paso County Constable Gus Krempkau accompanied the Mexican cowboys in locating the two young youths.
Their bodies were discovered at the ranch of Johnny Hale, a rancher and cattle rustler, in the Upper Valley about 13 miles northwest of El Paso.
A large crowd gathered in El Paso, including John Hale and his friend, former town marshal George Campbell.
John Hale, who was allegedly unarmed, was heavily intoxicated and upset with Constable Krempkau’s involvement in the investigation.
Campbell screamed and scooped his gun with his left hand, Stoudenmire whirled and rapidly fired.