AVA, Mo. — A Douglas County jury has convicted a local man in a brutal 2020 homicide case involving the death of an elderly resident and multiple other felonies. The verdict came after detailed deliberations that painted a dramatic picture of the crime and its aftermath.
William Wolfe Jr., was found guilty on multiple charges, including first-degree murder and armed criminal action, stemming from the killing of 84-year-old Clarence “Bob” Clark. Additional charges include abandonment of a corpse, first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle, unlawful possession of a firearm with five counts, and resisting arrest. Authorities linked Wolfe to a series of events that began with the violent crime at Clark’s home.
In September 2020, Douglas County deputies were dispatched to Clark’s residence following reports of suspicious activity. Upon arrival, officers found Clark deceased in his bed, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds in what was described as a violent encounter.
The unfolding situation swiftly moved beyond the initial crime scene. Douglas County Sheriff Chris Degase reported that he encountered Wolfe while en route to Clark’s home. Wolfe was observed driving Clark’s truck. A pursuit ensued, but Degase was compelled to call off the chase due to safety concerns.
The search for Wolfe continued across the local area, culminating in his arrest after a passerby noticed the stolen truck abandoned and wrecked. Wolfe was found nearby, concealed under a camouflage poncho, attempting to evade police capture.
Wolfe’s capture brought to light more details about the sequence of events that led to Clark’s death and subsequent actions taken by Wolfe. According to law enforcement officials, the evidence presented during the trial was comprehensive, detailing Wolfe’s movements before and after the homicide, which ultimately led to his conviction.
The community has reacted to the verdict with a mix of relief and sorrow, reflecting on the loss of a long-time resident known affectionately as Bob Clark. “It’s a tragedy for Bob’s family and the community,” stated a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “Hopefully, this verdict can bring some closure to those who knew and cared about him.”
As the sentencing phase approaches, prosecutors are expected to recommend a severe penalty given the severity and multiplicity of the crimes. Wolfe is scheduled for sentencing in October 2024, where the full consequences of his actions will be formally addressed.
The case is a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges law enforcement face in rural America, where community ties are strong and crimes of this nature can reverberate deeply.