Deputy Sheriff William May, Walton County Sheriff's Office, Florida

Deputy Sheriff William May

Walton County Sheriff's Office, Florida

End of Watch Wednesday, April 2, 2025

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William May

Deputy Sheriff Will May was shot and killed while responding to a disturbance at the Dollar General Market at 10738 US-90 in Defuniak Springs.

Around 2:00 p.m., Deputy May arrived at the store and, after talking to the subject, he decided to escort the man out of the store and not arrest him. As soon as they exited the building, the man pulled out a gun and shot Deputy May a few times. Deputy May returned fire and was able to call for back-up.

Deputy May was transported to North Okaloosa Medical Center with multiple gunshot wounds. One of the bullets went underneath his bulletproof vest, and he passed away over four hours later.

The suspect died at the scene.

Deputy May was working an overtime shift and was on his way home when he took the disturbance call. He had served with the Walton County Sheriff's Office for over 11 years, the last six of which were as a law enforcement officer. He is survived by his wife, four children, and parents. His mother and father retired from the Walton County Sheriff's Office.

Bio

Age 38
Tour 6 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Shot and killed

disturbance, trespasser

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I always hoped I’d make it through my career without knowing the loss of a fellow officer. Agencies around us had already faced it—each time, you could see the pain etched into their faces, no matter how close they were to the fallen. Then came April 2nd. I was driving when I heard the words: “Walton, I have been shot!” I couldn’t make out who it was. I scanned the CAD, desperate to find a call that matched. It was the trespassing call. I immediately floored it out there to you.

I kneeled beside you, telling you to hold on. I checked on our co-workers to see if they were ok. They weren't. I stayed with your family through the agonizing wait, hoping you’d pull through. You didn’t.

Will, your impact on our community, your brothers and sisters in uniform, and your family is immeasurable. You are deeply missed. Not a day goes by that I’m not thankful for your courage and the sacrifice you made to protect total strangers. You gave everything—and we will never forget.

Captain Angie Hogeboom
Walton County Sheriff's Office

October 21, 2025