The attempted murder of a surgeon (1882): Frank Algernon Hall of Lewes, Sussex

Abstract

Frank Algernon Hall (1846-1899) was an English surgeon who practised in Lewes, Sussex. He is remembered for an attempt on his life in 1882 by “feloniously shooting”. This premeditated act took place at the Lewes surgery where he practised and lived. No reason for the attack is documented and his assailant, Edwin Battersby, was removed to Broadmoor asylum. The author reflects on the value of historical accounts in promoting awareness of assaults on clinicians.