NORRIDGEWOCK, Maine (WGAN) The FBI is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of 29-year-old John Williams.
The Madison resident is accused of killing Cpl. Eugene Cole early Wednesday morning in Norridgewock.
Police say Williams is armed and dangerous and if anyone has had contact with him, they should contact police.
“It doesn’t have to be face to face,” said Maine State Police Lt. Col. John Cote. “It could be something as simple as a text message, some type of social media, instant message. We would like to know about that.”
Officials say multiple police agencies are involved in searching for Williams.
“I am asking John Williams personally: If you are listening to my words today, I implore you to turn yourself in,” Somerset County Sheriff Dale Lancaster said.
The FBI has joined the search effort and police in New Hampshire and Massachusetts are lending a hand as well.
“We’ve had detectives in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and whatever they had going, they’re setting it aside and making this case a priority and getting us back information in a timely manner,” said Cote.
Police say Williams had stolen Deputy Cole’s cruiser after killing him on Wednesday, but it was found abandoned a few hours later. Police don’t believe he is mobile.
“Had we received a report of a stolen vehicle this morning, that would have been a dynamic that changes our efforts,” Cote said. “But based on what we have right now, we believe that we’ve been able to contain him, at least in the greater area.”
Cote says law enforcement is working hard to capture Williams safely.
“Everyone’s goal is the safe apprehension of John Williams. Because we know that he is the only one that can answer the questions that we have. We’re hopeful to get that opportunity to have that conversation with him.”
Police Friday said they have reason to believe Williams may reach out to them. Police said they are willing to communicate with Williams in hopes of ending the search peacefully.
Williams is described as 5’6″, about 120 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes.
Anyone with information is asked to immediately call 911.
