Springfield Police Officers apprehended a 31-year-old man yesterday evening after a disturbance involving a firearm escalated to an attempted escape and ensuing arrest. The incident began around 8 p.m. on the 200 block of Marion Street, where officers were dispatched in response to the reported disturbance. A vehicle associated with the incident attempted to leave the scene but was quickly stopped by police on the 100 block of Marion Street.
The traffic stop led to the arrest of Willie Woods Jr., the driver of the vehicle. Woods and his adult female passenger, who was later released, were approached by officers after Woods apparently attempted to quickly depart the scene. According to the Springfield Police Department's report, Woods initially seemed to comply with the officers' demands before deciding to try and run away. His escape came to a halt after he kicked an officer during the scuffle that ensured during his capture.
Law enforcement officials discovered a loaded large-capacity firearm in Woods' pocket during the arrest. The weapon, which was loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, could have easily led to a more tragic outcome had the situation escalated further. Consequent to the traffic stop and arrest, Woods is now facing multiple charges including carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a loaded high-capacity firearm without a license, possession of a high-capacity firearm, and assault & battery on a police officer.
