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Search ramps up again for Ira Troy Williams
The search for Ira Troy Williams, who ran from police earlier this week and reportedly shot a Georgia State Patrol K-9, ramped up again overnight.
COWETA COUNTY, Ga. - Authorities in Coweta County remain on high alert as the search continues for 51-year-old Ira Troy Williams, who is wanted for shooting a Georgia State Patrol K-9 while firing at GSP troopers earlier this week. The fugitive has been on the run since vanishing into the woods near Grantville.
PREVIOUS STORY: Manhunt called off for 'armed and dangerous' man in Coweta County still at large
In an overnight development, the Coweta County SWAT team executed a search of a shipping container on Meriwether Street, near the area where Williams was last seen. Law enforcement initially suspected he might be hiding inside, but the search yielded no results. Investigators had previously obtained a trail camera image showing Williams near a similar container in the vicinity.
Ira Troy Williams (Georgia Bureau of Investigation)
The manhunt shifted to Blue Creek Road, located on the Coweta-Troup County line. Law enforcement received reports of a man running through the woods in the area, prompting an extensive search effort. Agencies involved include the Georgia State Patrol, Hogansville Police, Grantville Police, Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, and Troup County authorities. However, after thoroughly checking a house on the property, officers indicated that this lead might not pan out.
Residents in the area have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. One local described the ongoing search as more of a background disruption, noting that law enforcement has not required residents to stay indoors.
The case has drawn significant attention, particularly due to the injury of the Georgia State Patrol K-9, which was shot during Williams' escape. The dog, Armor, is recovering and will remain off duty for several months. A K-9 memorial nonprofit shared an update on the animal’s condition and plans to honor the dog in March.
The U.S. Marshals, who are now involved in the search, confirmed late Friday morning that there is a $5,000 reward for information leading to Williams' capture and conviction.
Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact the GBI Regional Office in Columbus at (706) 565-7888. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.