Asa Moran was a rancher and neighbor to the Cartwrights. He was chosen by Ben to become temporary Sheriff while Roy Coffee was recoviering from being trampled by a horse. He killed to two rustlers & then went a bit crazy as he couldn't cope with authority. He used his power to try and undermine the Cartwrights. He led most of Virginia City in a mob against Ben who was minding Adam (who was injured by Asa) in a doctor's practice at the edge of town. Ben turned the town against him by getting Charlie Fitch to admit the truth. He pulled a gun on Ben but was shot Ben whose aim was faster. He died looking into the eyes of his self-proclaimed enemy.