WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Illinois – An intense five-hour manhunt came to a dramatic conclusion on Monday when a Williamson County Sheriff’s Department K9 officer cornered Eric F. Gibbs, an armed fugitive.
According to reports it began earlier in the day, after Gibbs reportedly violated a protective order by returning to a Crenshaw Road residence, allegedly threatening multiple people at the home before discharging a firearm.
Upon fleeing into the dense woods, Gibbs allegedly discarded a bag, later discovered to contain methamphetamine. Deputies eventually zeroed in on his location after receiving a tip around 3:30 p.m. After finding himself face-to-face with a K9 officer, Gibbs surrendered.
Gibbs now faces a potpourri of charges, including armed robbery and aggravated assault. Williamson County authorities are urging anyone with additional information to step forward, ensuring anonymity for callers.
