OSBI investigating officer-involved shooting

The Stillwater Police Department requested OSBI investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred just after noon Thursday.

Earlier in the day, Ralph W. Willis, 42, was identified as a person of interest in an apartment fire where he lived. When fire crews arrived, they began evacuating other apartments and found a deceased person in the apartment directly below Willis’.

Officers spotted Willis in the Walmart parking lot on Perkins. When officers approached him, Willis began running and officers pursued.

Approximately two blocks from Walmart, Willis is said to have made an aggressive move toward an officer. That officer fired his weapon, killing Willis.

OSBI agents and criminalists spent several hours at the scene collecting evidence and information. When agents complete the investigation, an extensive report will be delivered to the district attorney, who will determine if the shooting was justified.

The Stillwater Police Department is investigating the death of the individual found by fire fighters. OSBI crime scene investigators are assisting.