Barlow Connally was killed off in Longmire because he intentionally took his own life, stabbing himself with Sheriff Walt Longmire's knife in a deliberate attempt to frame Walt for his murder. This shocking act served as a pivotal plot point, profoundly impacting the series' narrative for subsequent seasons.
The Suicide and Frame Attempt
Barlow's death was not an accident or a murder committed by another character; rather, it was a calculated suicide. Despite Sheriff Longmire's desperate efforts to save Barlow's life, Barlow used Walt's own knife against himself. His clear intention was to implicate the sheriff in his death, thereby ruining Walt's career and potentially sending him to prison.
This dramatic event, occurring in the episode "High Noon," marked a significant turning point for the show. Barlow, a character known for his antagonistic relationship with Walt and his deep involvement in various conflicts, chose this extreme measure as a final act of revenge and manipulation.
Impact on the Series
While Barlow's direct attempt to frame Walt for murder did not ultimately succeed long-term, his death initiated a cascade of complications and challenges that defined the show's progression. The immediate aftermath led to intense scrutiny of Walt and his actions, forcing him to navigate legal challenges and public suspicion.
The ripple effects of Barlow's suicide continued to shape the storylines for the subsequent two seasons of Longmire, influencing:
- Legal Battles: Walt faced investigations and legal scrutiny related to Barlow's death.
- Character Development: The event deepened Walt's internal struggles and his relationships with other characters.
- Plot Arcs: New antagonists and conflicts arose directly or indirectly from the fallout of Barlow's death and the lingering question of his frame job.
- Thematic Exploration: The incident underscored themes of justice, revenge, and the blurred lines between right and wrong in Absaroka County.
Barlow's manipulative and self-destructive act ensured his demise was impactful, creating lasting consequences that propelled the Longmire narrative forward.
