Alabama Police Officer Killed, Suspect Could Face Death Penalty

William Buechner, a police officer who had been on the city of Auburn's force since April 2006, was recently killed by a man wearing camouflage body armor and a helmet.

It has been reported that the incident took place on Sunday, May 19, 2019, at 3000 block of Wire Road, in Alabama, during a response regarding a domestic disturbance.

Two other officers, identified as Webb Sistrunk and Evan Elliott were also wounded by the suspect, a man named Grady Wayne Wilkes. The police will now seek the death penalty for the criminal.

13 YEARS ON THE FORCE

The heartbreaking news of officer Buechner's passing was shared by Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, who also announced the arrest of the 29-year-old culprit.

Police Chief Paul Register described the day they lost the officer as the worst day since he joined the force and that words could not express the loss for his family, the Police and the community.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The veteran was shot down after Wilkes opened fire at Arrowhead Mobile Home Park. According to a neighbor who refused to be identified, six rapid-fire shots were heard, followed by three single shots.

According to Police Chief Register, the wounded officers received immediate medical care, with one being transported to East Alabama Medical Center and another to Columbus Regional Medical Center.

The police will now seek the death penalty for the criminal

The reason behind the attack is yet to be revealed but Wilkes, who was later captured five miles away from the scene of the crime, didn't resist arrest and is currently cooperating with investigators.

THE OFFICIAL CHARGES

The 29-year-old has been charged with capital murder, three counts of attempted murder and one count of second-degree domestic abuse, and is expected to appear in front of a judge soon.

Brandon Hughes, Lee County District Attorney, said:

"When you shoot a police officer, we’re going to pursue the death penalty. Absolutely.”

KILLED AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE

Being a police officer is one of the most dangerous jobs out there, and many good men and women have lost their lives on the job. Recently the world lost officer Buechner, but earlier this year officer Natalie Corona also perished at the hands of a criminal.

While responding to a routine traffic collision, the 22-year-old from California was shot by a man named Kevin Limbaugh, who rode up to the accident on a bicycle.

The 48-year-old then opened fire over the bystanders before fleeing the scene. Thanks to the backpack he left behind, Police was able to track him down to the house he was hiding him.

After finding himself surrounded by police officers, Limbaugh put on a bulletproof vest, pushed a couch against the door and took his own life. According to a suicide note found, he killed officer Corona because Police kept hitting him with "ultrasonic waves."