Authorities in Oklahoma are on high alert as they continue the manhunt for Billy Wayne Williams, the suspect accused of shooting a Webbers Falls police officer. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) reported the incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. after the officer pulled over the driver for speeding. The situation escalated when shots were fired, striking the officer in the face, who has fortunately been treated and released from the hospital, as per a report by News9.
While initially believed to be in a white GMC Yukon, Williams reportedly switched to a white Nissan Altima with an unknown tag number. Williams is described as roughly 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing about 380 pounds, and he has brown hair with hazel eyes, which the manhunt has been activated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) through a Blue Alert. "We're going to do everything in our power to find this suspect as quickly as possible," OSBI Public Information Officer Hunter McKee told News9 that multiple agencies are collaborating in this search.
Elements of the Cherokee Marshals and the OHP are actively looking for Williams, examining body camera footage to determine the sequence of events that led to the shooting. "We just need people to be aware and be cautious when they are out," McKee cautioned in the same interview with News9. The public is urged not to approach Williams, as he is considered armed and dangerous, and to call 911 if spotted.
The Blue Alert system, used in 37 states, is meant to expedite the capture of suspects accused of seriously injuring or killing law enforcement officers, according to News9. Amid the active search, Webbers Falls Police Chief Mike James expressed the emotional toll the event has taken on the tight-knit police force. "Being the oldest, it feels like this has happened to one of my children," said James.
Anyone with information on Williams' whereabouts is encouraged to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement by reporting to the authorities. Samson Tamijani of 2 News Oklahoma uncovered that the shooting took place at the intersection of North Stand Watie Boulevard and West Lynch Street in Webbers Falls. Updates will follow as the investigation progresses. Details can also be found on-air and online as they develop through KJRH.
