Trooper William James "Bill" Walker

Trooper William James "Bill" Walker

Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma

End of Watch Wednesday, February 17, 1971

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William James "Bill" Walker

Trooper Bill Walker was shot and killed after arresting two men for weapons violations at the Fountainhead State Lodge park. He had been called there by park officials who requested assistance in arresting the men. Trooper Walker placed the two men in his cruiser and called for a tow truck when one of the men suddenly pulled out a concealed weapon and shot him. They also killed the park superintendent and wounded a game warden while fleeing.

A massive manhunt was launched and two suspects were arrested approximately eighty-three hours later only a short distance away. Three pistols including the Trooper's service revolver, a rifle, a shotgun and ammunition were recovered.

One suspect was convicted of two counts of first degree murder and sentenced to death. In 1973 his sentence was changed to life. He has a parole hearing in August of 2017. The other suspect was convicted of two counts of first degree murder and sentenced to life. In 1983 his conviction was overturned. He was retried in 1985 and acquitted,

Trooper Walker has served with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for four years and was a veteran of the United States Navy. He was survived by his wife, two sons, one brother, and two sisters and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery in Checotah, Oklahoma.

Bio

  • Age 33
  • Tour 4 years
  • Badge 391
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

View all 13 Reflections

Trooper Walker,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the USN. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 17, 2021

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