Ripley County-This afternoon, the suspect in a two day manhunt surrendered to state police detectives at the Ripley County Jail.
Law enforcement agencies were searching for William “Billy” A. Russell, 43, Moores Hill, in connection with a shooting that occurred at DJ’s Bar in Milan in the early morning hours of Saturday, September 5th. The shooting injured Jonathan D. K. Smith, 37, Moores Hill. Russell allegedly shot Smith during an altercation at the bar. Russell fled the scene and had not been located by law enforcement prior to him turning himself in today.
Russell was incarcerated at approximately 1:37 PM at the Ripley County Jail and faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated battery, battery with a deadly weapon, and possession of a handgun without a permit. After undergoing the normal book-in process, Russell will be given an initial court date to appear in the Ripley County Courts. State police detectives also learned that Smith is set to be released from University of Cincinnati hospital today.
The Indiana State Police would like to thank the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department, the Milan Police Department, and Mac’s Seaplane Service out of Rising Sun, IN for their assistance in this case.
A mug photograph of William “Billy” Russell may be obtained by contacting the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department.
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Under the Law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
