In September 1926, Benjamin Turner, an Iowa native, traveled from Mexico City to Portland to confront Maine resident James Hallen. Witnesses saw Turner arrive at Hallen's house, where they exchanged words. Turner then shot and killed Hallen with his revolver.

In 1921, Turner was in a Mexico City jail for killing a man he accused of swindling money from him. He had been in Mexico since the start of World War I as a conscientious objector. Hallen, a known con man, visited Turner in jail, posing as an attorney, and promised to help him for $1,200. Turner had $827, which he gave to Hallen. However, after sending the money, Turner never heard from Hallen again. After Turner eventually got out of prison with the charges dropped, he spent three years in Mexico to repay debts, all while planning Hallen's murder.

Once Turner settled his debts, he traveled across the U.S. until he finally tracked down Hallen in Portland and killed him outside his home. Turner pled guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.