 On February 9, 1883, Desmond became involved in an argument with city police officer R.A. Caldwell, partly due to Caldwell's dislike of Desmond's detective agency, and partly over a local woman that both men had been involved with romantically.When Desmond was not looking, Caldwell hit him over the head with his pistol, causing the pistol to discharge and crease Desmond's head.Desmond recovered his senses partially, and staggered down the street.