Billy Wayne Williams, a 47-year-old resident of Wister, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty on April 1 to several charges related to the shooting of a Webbers Falls police officer in March 2025, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The case is significant as it involves an attack on law enforcement during a routine traffic stop and triggered a multi-state manhunt. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about violence against police officers and the collaborative response required from multiple agencies.
Williams admitted guilt to one count each of Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country, and Use, Carry, Brandish, and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. These charges carry potential penalties ranging from up to 10 or 20 years for each assault charge and at least 10 years consecutive for the firearm offense. Each count also includes fines up to $250,000.
According to investigators cited by prosecutors, Williams shot the officer in the face during a traffic stop on March 16 before fleeing. Authorities issued a statewide Blue Alert warning that he was armed and dangerous. The injured officer was hospitalized but survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Early the next morning, Grants Police Department officers apprehended Williams after spotting his vehicle at an area Walmart parking lot following notification through traffic cameras.
The crimes took place within Muskogee County on Cherokee Nation Reservation land. Multiple agencies participated in investigating the case including federal authorities as well as local law enforcement from both Oklahoma and New Mexico.
Magistrate Judge Gerald L. Jackson accepted Williams' plea and ordered preparation of a presentence investigation report. Sentencing will be determined by a U.S. District Court Judge who will consider sentencing guidelines along with statutory factors. Williams remains held by U.S. Marshals pending sentencing.
