Bill Myers - Sheriff's Deputy Fatality - Okaloosa County, Florida

Deputy Sheriff Bill Myers, age 64, died in the line of duty on September 22, 2015, at a hospital in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. 

Bill Myers (L); Joel Smith (R)

Deputy Myers was a member of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office. He had served 25 years before his retirement.  He returned from retirement to work as a part time Deputy in January of 2015.  His current position was serving civil papers. 

Just before 8:30 a.m., Bill was serving a domestic violence injunction against Joel Dixon Smith, age 33. Joel Smith was at a lawyer's office in Shalimar. Bill served the papers and left the office. 

As Bill was walking away, Joel Smith opened fire striking Bill numerous times in the back and the head. 

Bill was rushed to a nearby hospital where tragically he succumbed to his injuries. 

Michael, Patron Saint of the
Police, pray for Bill and for those
who have lost him.

Joel Smith fled the scene, barricaded himself in a local hotel for 90 minutes and exchanged gunfire with the Police. He was shot and killed by a Special Response Team when he left the hotel room with his firearm. 

The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office is in mourning over the death of their brother. Officials stated that Bill served the community with distinction for decades. He was well-respected and well-liked by his peers. He could make others smile. He will be forever remembered.

Bill's loved ones are devastated over his sudden and tragic death. He did his best. He will be forever mourned.

Bill is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members including his wife, three sons and a grand-daughter.

Thank you for your service to the community, Bill. 

God save us from the psychopaths. They are killing us, Father. Amen.

Pray that Bill is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.