Pretty Boy Floyd, born as George Floyd, was one of America's most infamous bank robbers during the early 20th century. Known for his charming persona and his ability to evade law enforcement, Floyd gained notoriety in the context of the Great Depression, a time when crime rates soared and many turned to illegal means for survival. His criminal activities made him a target for law enforcement agencies, which were under pressure to combat the rising tide of crime. On October 22, in East Liverpool, Ohio, FBI agents were informed of Floyd's whereabouts and initiated a plan to apprehend him. As agents confronted Floyd, a shootout ensued.

Floyd was armed and refused to surrender, which resulted in a firefight. The gun battle was intense, and Floyd sustained fatal injuries during the exchange. His death was widely reported in the press, and it signified the federal government's determination to tackle notorious criminals. This shootout not only ended Floyd's criminal reign but also highlighted the escalating conflict between organized crime and law enforcement during this tumultuous period of American history.

In the wake of Floyd's death, public reactions were mixed; some viewed him as a romantic antihero, while others recognized the severe implications of his criminal activities. The FBI's decisive action against Floyd was part of a broader strategy to make the nation safer, reflecting the agency's increasing power and influence within law enforcement.