WEBBERS FALLS, OK – A man accused of shooting a police officer in Webbers Falls on Sunday has been taken into custody in Grants, New Mexico, as confirmed by the Muskogee County sheriff.
Billy Wayne Williams, 46, was found in Grants, New Mexico, with what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He is currently receiving medical treatment in a New Mexico hospital. Williams now faces federal charges for “assault to commit murder in Indian Country” and “attempted murder in Indian Country.”
Authorities in Grants were able to track down Williams after receiving information from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Utilizing their License Plate Reader system, officers located the suspect’s white Nissan Altima in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Upon attempting to approach Williams, a single gunshot was heard, which was later determined to be self-inflicted.
With Grants located approximately 80 miles west of Albuquerque, the FBI will lead the investigation due to Williams’ tribal status.
The incident in Webbers Falls occurred during a routine traffic stop initiated by an officer. Shots were fired as the officer attempted to pull over a speeding driver, later identified as Billy Wayne Williams. The officer sustained a facial injury from the gunfire but has since been treated and released from the hospital.
Residents in the typically quiet town of Webbers Falls were shocked by the sudden act of violence. Chief Mike James of the Webbers Falls Police Department expressed the impact on the small police force, likening it to a blow to a family member.
Despite the traumatic event, Chief James stated that the injured officer is recovering at home and eager to return to duty. He commended the collaborative effort of multiple agencies, including the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Cherokee Marshals, and Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, in quickly locating and apprehending Williams.
The arrest of Williams brings a sense of relief to the community, knowing that justice is being served for the injured officer and the safety of the town restored.