Update: Edgar Lara, the suspect in the fatal shooting of LeFlore County deputy Thomas “Walker” LeMay, has been charged.
Lara was charged on Wednesday with first-degree murder, eight counts of shooting with intent to kill, and one count of using an incendiary device.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place on Sunday in LeFlore County.
According to OSBI, the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office, Wister Police Department, and the United States Forestry Department responded to a welfare check around 11 a.m. on Sunday at a home near U.S. Highway 270.
Once on scene, OSBI said someone fired at law enforcement. The shooter was identified as 36-year-old Edgar Lara.
Lara barricaded himself inside of his home, leading to a stand-off between him and the responding agencies.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and several additional agencies aided in the response.
During the situation, a LeFlore County deputy and an officer with Wister Police were injured. The officer was taken to the hospital to be treated and has been reported to be in stable condition.
OSBI confirmed that the LeFlore County deputy was pronounced dead.
Around 4 p.m., Lara surrendered and was taken into custody following treatment for minor injuries. He was booked into the LeFlore County jail.
LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Monday identifying the deputy who passed away as Thomas “Walker” LeMay.
“It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we announce the unfortunate line of duty death of Deputy Thomas “Walker” LeMay,” said the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office. “Deputy LeMay…was a true servant of the people, a loving son, brother, and father to his most precious baby girl.”
A patrol vehicle has been parked in front of the LeFlore County courthouse. Community members have been invited to place decorations and items of memoriam for LeMay on the car.
“We ask that you continue to keep Deputy LeMay’s family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate the days ahead,” continued LeFlore County Sheriff’s Office. “His sacrifice will never be forgotten and his legacy of service and dedication will live on through all of us.”
