Osage County, Oklahoma — A 10-year-old girl who was reported missing Saturday evening has been safely recovered following a multi-agency search and a dramatic high-speed police chase that ended in a fatal crash. According to the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, the young girl was abducted from her home near the rural Web City community and is now safely reunited with her family.
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The Abduction: Massive Search Operation Launched
The child was reported missing around 6:00 PM on June 28, prompting an urgent and coordinated response from law enforcement agencies. Authorities from the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP), and other local and state agencies mobilized immediately.
Over 20 officers and specialized units, including K-9 teams, drones, and ATVs, were deployed. Investigators also worked closely with the girl’s family to gather information and identify possible leads regarding the abductor’s identity and movements.
No AMBER Alert Issued, But Public Help Vital
While the case didn’t meet the criteria for an AMBER Alert, law enforcement turned to social media to circulate the girl’s photo and details, encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings.
Using cellphone triangulation, interviews, and surveillance analysis, authorities identified 51-year-old Jimmy Ellison Shimels Jr., a resident of Shidler, Oklahoma, as the prime suspect. His vehicle was later tracked to a remote, low-population farming area near the Kansas border in Cowley County.
High-Speed Pursuit and Dramatic Rescue
When law enforcement located Shimels’ vehicle in a rural area north of Lyman, they attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Shimels fled, leading officers on a 20-mile high-speed chase through rugged terrain and country roads.
During a brief stop near the girl’s home, the child escaped from the vehicle and ran toward officers. Deputies quickly secured her and transported her to a nearby medical facility for evaluation. Thankfully, she appeared unharmed.
Meanwhile, Shimels continued the pursuit at dangerous speeds, eventually reaching State Highway 11. The chase ended tragically when his vehicle left the roadway and crashed, resulting in his death at the scene.
Investigation Underway
Following the crash, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol took over the investigation into the fatal crash, while the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) assumed responsibility for the abduction case.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding Shimels’ relationship to the victim or his motive for the kidnapping. It is still unclear whether he had any prior connection to the family or if the abduction was a random act.
The Osage County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips can help investigators determine the full scope of the case and any related activities.
“This could have ended very differently,” said a spokesperson from the Osage County Sheriff’s Office.
“We are incredibly grateful for the teamwork, swift action, and courage displayed by all agencies involved. Protecting our most vulnerable is always our highest priority.”
A Community United in Relief and Support
The incident has sparked both relief and gratitude within the Osage County community. Residents have praised the swift response by law enforcement and the safe recovery of the child. Public cooperation, including tips and social media sharing, played a critical role in ensuring a positive outcome.
Local officials emphasized the need for continued vigilance, especially in remote areas, to protect children and families from similar threats.
Looking Ahead: Healing and Accountability
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge about the abduction, the suspect’s intentions, and the timeline of events. The authorities have committed to transparency and justice, ensuring all aspects of the case are fully examined.
In the meantime, the focus remains on the recovery and well-being of the young girl and her family as they begin the process of healing.