Hooks standoff ends in death of barricaded man
HOOKS, Texas — A man accused of shooting at utility workers and law enforcement Friday died from a self-inflicted gunshot after an hourslong standoff with police at his home.
William Boyd Estes, who lived in the 100 block of West 22nd Street, also known as Spur 594, reportedly threatened SWEPCO workers about 10 a.m. Friday.
“Officers were advised by SWEPCO employees that they had been threatened by a subject at 112 W. 22nd St. and that the same subject had pointed a gun at them,” Hooks Police Chief Ricky L. Woodard said.
The workers were doing routine maintenance when they were fired upon, SWEPCO communications director Amanda B. Keeney said in an email sent to the Gazette.
“We are incredibly relieved that they were unharmed and able to get out of the situation safely.”
Estes reportedly was upset that crews were working on his property. SWEPCO vehicles, including a raised bucket truck, could be seen nearby.
The situation escalated when a Hooks Police officer and two Bowie County deputies attempted to speak with Estes.
“At that time, Mr. Estes fired shots in the direction of the officers with an unknown-caliber weapon,” Woodard said.
The officers, along with Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, set up a roadblock on West 22nd, which is directly across the entrance to Red River Army Depot.
Police negotiators eventually made contact with Estes, but all communication with him ceased about 3:20 p.m. Hooks PD then requested the assistance of the Texarkana Texas Police Department SWAT team.
“Shortly after their arrival, SWAT team members attempted to force Mr. Estes from the residence by inserting pepper gas,” Woodard said.
Once the gas was deployed, officers heard “what was believed to be a muffled gunshot.” As SWAT members entered the house, they found Estes dead.
“The Hooks Police Department sends our heartfelt condolences to all affected by the tragic event,” Woodard said.
The case remains under investigation.