William J. "Bill" Myers, a 64-year-old white male, was tragically killed on September 22, 2015, in Shalimar, Florida. Deputy Sheriff Myers was serving a domestic violence injunction at a local attorney's office on Plew Avenue when he was ambushed and shot multiple times in the back and head by Joel Dixon Smith, a 33-year-old white male. Myers had just completed serving the papers and was leaving the office when Smith opened fire from behind.
The attack occurred at approximately 8:20 a.m., and Myers succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Following the shooting, Smith fled to a nearby hotel, where he barricaded himself in a room. The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team responded to the situation, evacuating the building and setting up a perimeter. After about 90 minutes of negotiations, Smith exited the room brandishing a firearm and was subsequently shot and killed by law enforcement officers.
Deputy Myers was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and had served with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office for a total of 26 years. He had retired after 25 years of service but returned as a part-time deputy in January 2015 to assist with serving civil papers. Myers was well-respected in his community and is survived by his wife, three sons, and seven grandchildren.
The incident sparked an outpouring of grief and support from the community and law enforcement agencies. Okaloosa County Sheriff Larry Ashley described Myers as a dedicated and beloved member of the department, highlighting his commitment to his family and his profession. The tragic event underscored the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and led to widespread calls for increased support and protection for those serving in such roles.
