Newly elected sheriff Pat Garrett is gunned down in the dark during an express office robbery. Deputy Johnny Swift believes the shooter is Billy the Kid. With Pat unconsious and the town out for blood, Billy must prove he is innocent. His only friend is his girlfriend ,Maria, and the two work on a daring plan to bring in the guilty parties.

Deputy Johnny Swift angers cattle drover Blanchard and a subsequent gun battle leaves Johnny dead by accident at the hand of his friend Pat Garrett. Pat, in his guilt,, abandons his office and leaves the town at the mercy of Blanchaard and his wild crew. Billy the kid attempts to rescue Garrett from his dispair in time to retore order/