The intersection of Texas 183 and Esters Road in Irving may seem like any other bustling crossroads, with familiar names like Red Lobster, McDonald’s, and 7-Eleven on every corner. However, if you could travel back to November 21, 1933, you would witness an infamous moment in history—the failed ambush of notorious criminals Bonnie and Clyde.
Bonnie and Clyde had arranged to meet their family at this location, which was just northwest of the small town of Sowers. Sowers, annexed by Irving in 1956, is now a forgotten community, with Sowers Cemetery on Pioneer Drive serving as its last remnant. Many of Irving’s early settlers rest in that historic cemetery.
As the couple approached the meeting in a stolen black 1933 Ford V8 coupe, law enforcement officers lay waiting, ready to confront the outlaws.
Sensing danger, Bonnie sped past the gathering family members, narrowly avoiding the lawmen lying in wait. Officers opened fire with Thompson submachine guns, injuring both Bonnie and Clyde as they made their escape. They eventually abandoned their stolen car to avoid capture once again.
Last Updated on June 1, 2026 by F.E.M