Memorial Sign Unveiled for Fallen Oklahoma Heroes

Ceremony honors OHP Trooper and Park Superintendent killed in 1971 line-of-duty shooting

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:13am

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Friends and family gathered at Fountainhead State Park in Oklahoma to unveil a memorial sign honoring OHP Trooper William 'Bill' Walker and Fountainhead Park Superintendent T. Leo Newton, who were tragically killed in the line of duty in 1971. The ceremony was led by Rep. Tim Turner and included remarks from law enforcement and state park officials, as well as the presentation of formal resolutions and letters to the victims' families.

Why it matters

The memorial sign serves as a permanent tribute to the sacrifice of these two public servants, who lost their lives protecting the community. The event brought together current and retired law enforcement, park personnel, and community members to honor the legacies of Walker and Newton and ensure their dedication is never forgotten.

The details

Walker and Newton, both 35 years old, were shot and killed on February 17, 1971, during an attempted arrest of two men illegally possessing firearms at Fountainhead State Park Lodge. State Game Warden W.L. Pickens was also wounded in the gunfight but survived. The event led to one of the state's largest manhunts at the time, and the shooters were later apprehended and sentenced to life in prison, though one was later acquitted in 1985.

  • The memorial sign unveiling ceremony took place on March 27, 2026.
  • Walker and Newton were killed in the line of duty on February 17, 1971.

The players

William 'Bill' Walker

An OHP State Trooper who was killed in the line of duty in 1971 at the age of 35. He had served on the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for four years and was a veteran of the United States Navy. He is survived by his wife, two sons, one brother, and two sisters.

T. Leo Newton

The Fountainhead Park Superintendent who was killed in the line of duty in 1971 at the age of 35. He had served as the Park Superintendent for Fountainhead State Park for three years. He was born in Checotah and was a member of Meeker Masonic Lodge and Checotah Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is survived by his wife, two sons, his parents, two brothers, and a sister.

W.L. Pickens

The State Game Warden who was wounded but survived the 1971 shooting incident at Fountainhead State Park Lodge.

Rep. Tim Turner

The state representative who led the memorial ceremony and presented formal resolutions and letters to the victims' families.

Jerry Morris

The Chief of Staff from the Lt. Governor's office who attended the memorial ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“These men died trying to protect the public. There is no greater sacrifice than being willing to lay down your life in place of another. This sign honoring their dedication and their memories has been a long time coming but I'm honored to be part of making sure their families and the public knows their lives and legacies will never be forgotten.”

— Rep. Tim Turner, State Representative

The takeaway

The memorial sign serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement and public servants to protect their communities. This event brought together current and former officials, as well as the families of Walker and Newton, to ensure their legacies are honored and remembered for generations to come.