Willie Neal Jr.

How they died

Deadly force

Bystander Willie Neal Jr. was reportedly struck by a bullet fired by Ross A. Williams, who police said shot at officers a quarter of a mile away from Neal following a chase. The chase began after Williams robbed the Bank of America in Coffeyville just before 5 p.m. Williams fled to the outskirts of town where he drove through a wire cable and hit a tree. According to police, Williams exited his SUV and fired a handgun at officers, then pulled out an SKS rifle and fired about 30 rounds. Police returned fire as Williams ran into a wooded area. One of Williams' shots reportedly traveled about a quarter mile down Grant Street, hitting Neal in the left thigh and through his right thigh, severing both femoral arteries. Neal and his brother had gone outside when Williams passed their house during the chase. Neal died on the way to the hospital.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Willie Neal Jr., and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources