Hearing set for man accused of killing Caruthersville cop

CARUTHERSVILLE, Mo. -- The next court appearance for the man accused of killing Caruthersville police officer Evan Burns is scheduled for Monday, when a preliminary hearing date will be set.

Deonta Williamson, 29, of Hayti and O'Fallon, Mo., made his first appearance Aug. 18 before Circuit Judge Byron Luber. He faces six charges, including first-degree murder, after police say he intentionally drove a stolen Cadillac Escalade into the patrol car of Burns, 28, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pemiscot County Prosecuting Attorney William Carter has also charged Williamson with armed criminal action, first-degree assault, tampering with a motor vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing.

During the incident, Caruthersville police officer Richard Altice was also injured when his car was also reportedly rammed by Williamson. He was released from the hospital later that morning.

The parents of the accused man, Rhonda and Danny Webster, said in a television interview that their hearts hurt for Burns' family. Danny Webster, Williamson's stepfather, is a Caruthersville native.

After being notified by O'Fallon police, Pemiscot County deputies spotted Williamson in the allegedly stolen truck, leading to the chase and subsequent events.

Williamson's family said he suffered from mental illnesses, including post-traumatic stress disorder, paranoia and schizophrenia. His family claims the symptoms started when Williamson had his arm amputated after he was shot in 2004.

During his first appearance, Williamson's friends and family and several law enforcement officers wearing black bands over their badges, were in the courtroom.

Pertinent address:

Caruthersville, MO