An Ohio State student who was abducted at gunpoint by her son’s father was killed Monday following an officer-involved shooting in Kentucky which also resulted in the suspect’s death, according to reports.
In a press release, the university stated that an armed Ty’rell Pounds, 24, was seen forcing Skylar Williams, 20, into his vehicle at the Mansfield campus at 11:45 a.m. Monday. Authorities said the vehicle used in the abduction was located but alleged that Pounds had stolen another car at some point in the abduction.
WCMH confirmed Tuesday that both Pounds and Williams were fatally shot in Gallatin County, Kentucky, Monday afternoon after law enforcement received a 911 call reporting someone in distress. Police said the caller claimed the woman, presumably Williams, whispered “help me” while in a nearby gas station. The caller reportedly claimed they attempted to confront the suspect but he drove off with the victim.
Kentucky State Police reportedly spotted the vehicle on I-71 S in Henry County and tried to pull it over the driver but they continued to drive, exiting the interstate, then attempting to get back on the interstate by crossing Highway 329.
Mansfield abduction suspect and victim locatedCOLUMBUS – The suspect and victim in yesterday’s abduction from the Ohio…
Posted by Ohio State Highway Patrol on Tuesday, February 12, 2019
“Due to public safety concerns, the primary KSP pursuit unit performed a legal intervention stop to prevent the suspect’s vehicle from re-entering the highway. After the vehicle came to rest on the ramp, the trooper attempted to apprehend the suspect,” state police said in a press release issued to WCMH.
Police said the responding trooper heard a gunshot come from inside the vehicle, leading him to believe the passenger and himself were in immediate danger. The trooper reportedly fired at Pounds, killing him at the scene. Williams was rushed to the hospital where she was pronounced dead.
“The trooper drew his service weapon and fired at which time the suspect was struck resulting in his death at the scene. During this event, the female passenger was struck by at least one round of gunfire,” KSP said in the press release.
The nature of Pounds and Williams’ current relationship is unclear, though reports stated that they had a young son together. According to WFMD, Pounds wrote a Facebook post where he accused Williams of keeping him from their son from him.
(The news station redacted names mentioned in the post below.)
“_______ I love you so much I hope you become a better man than I was when you turn 18 you’ll get $100,000 dollars be smart with it!!! My dream goal was to raise you as a man and for me to become a state trooper!!! Obviously that didn’t happen!!
Your mother kept me away from you and I was fighting for you through the court system!! Your mother kept teasing and I got overwhelmed, I’m so sorry you have to grow up without us baby!! But we’ll be watching you trust me!!! I love you with all my heart _____!! Don’t listen to nothing _______ or ________ says about me it’s a lie she’s a manipulator I’ve bought everything for you and your Mother up to this point!!
________ I would like for you to become a state trooper any state of your choosing!! My side of the family is more fortunate then your mom side of you need anything financially reach out to ______!!! Too my family I love y’all and I’m sorry dad you’re right I let my feelings build up!! DONT feel sorry for me cause there is nothing you guys could’ve done to stop me!! PLEASE KEEP MY SON OUT OF THE STREETS I don’t want him following my bad ways.”
[Featured image: Ty’rell Pounds, Skylar Williams/Ohio State University Department of Public Safety]