Oklahoma – The Oklahoma Highway Patrol participated in the unveiling of a memorial highway sign honoring fallen Trooper Willie Walker.
According to officials, the ceremony recognized Walker’s service and sacrifice following a tragic incident on February 17, 1971. On that day, two Fountainhead State Park Rangers requested assistance from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol in arresting two men on park grounds who were in possession of illegal firearms. Walker responded to the call, made the arrest, and requested a tow truck.
Authorities said the two suspects were seated in the patrol unit while awaiting the wrecker when one of them produced a concealed weapon. The suspect shot and killed both Walker and Park Ranger Leo Newton.
The incident led to one of the largest manhunts in the state’s history, with the suspects captured four days later a short distance from the scene.
The effort to install the memorial sign on State Highway 150 in Eufaula State Park, formerly known as Fountainhead State Park, was led by Representative Tim Turner.
Officials said family members of Walker attended the unveiling, and the sign will serve as a lasting reminder to those traveling the highway of the sacrifice made in the line of duty.
Memorial highway sign unveiled honoring fallen trooper Willie Walker
