In a quiet rural community, the lives of Ronald Everett Wilkson, a 55-year-old male, and his wife were violently cut short on October 23, 2016. The couple was found deceased at their home in Luther, Oklahoma, near Wellston, victims of a brutal attack that stunned the local community. Ronald, a former truck driver and mechanic, was known for his meticulous care for his lawn and his hardworking nature.
The tragedy unfolded as part of a violent crime spree perpetrated by their own nephew,
Michael Vance. Prior to arriving at the Wilkson residence, Vance had shot two Wellston police officers and carjacked a vehicle. At the couple's home, Ronald Wilkson was shot and viciously stabbed. Investigators noted that the wounds to his neck were consistent with an attempt to sever his head. His wife, Valerie Kay Wilkson, was also found with severe injuries. The nature of the attack led the Oklahoma County Sheriff to describe the killings as a 'rage killing'.
Following the murders, Vance fled the scene in the Wilksons' car, continuing his rampage. He even posted videos to social media during his flight from law enforcement. A widespread manhunt was launched for Vance, who was considered armed and extremely dangerous. The search for the suspect put the community on edge, with law enforcement from multiple agencies coordinating the effort. The manhunt concluded when Vance was killed in a shootout with an Oklahoma state trooper near Leedey, about 130 miles northwest of Oklahoma City. Prosecutors had filed two counts of first-degree murder against Vance before his death.
