Citizen detains burglary suspect at gunpoint

The following is a press release from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.

On Sunday, June 23, 2024, Klamath County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call from a resident on Steelhead Lane in East Klamath County who discovered her property had been burglarized the prior day. One of the stolen items was the victim’s Nissan pickup truck.

While deputies were responding to the scene the victim reported her stolen pickup had been spotted on a neighboring property. When deputies approached the scene of a second burglary on foot, they interrupted the crime in progress. Two males fled the property in the stolen Nissan.

As the deputies began a search for the fleeing pickup, a caller contacted 911 Emergency Dispatch and advised that they had one suspect detained at gunpoint at the intersection of Canadian Honker Lane and Sprague River Drive.   

Deputies arrived to find a friend of the victim had attempted to stop the stolen truck causing the driver to flee on foot and the passenger to surrender. Taken into custody was William Owen Shelton II, who was charged with the below listed crimes.

Information has been obtained regarding the driver of the stolen pickup who fled on foot and deputies will be attempting to locate him as quickly as possible. While the name of the suspect is believed to be known to law enforcement, it will not be released while the investigation continues. 

The Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank the individual who assisted in the apprehension of the burglary suspect. Often it is the eyes, ears, and actions of neighbors that make the difference, especially in rural areas. While the Sheriff’s office would never request someone put themselves in harm’s way, in this case the citizen’s efforts are greatly appreciated.    

In Custody: William Owen Shelton II   (age 38)

Initial Charges: Aggravated Theft 1st Degree, Criminal Mischief, Felon in Possession of a Weapon, Burglary 1st Degree, Burglary 2nd Degree, Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle, and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle.