Authorities ID weapon used in Weleetka homicides

TULSA - Authorities have identified the weapon used in the homicide of two Weleetka girls in 2008.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is offering up to a $5,000 reward for the Glock .40 model 22 handgun used. Agents have determined the serial number to be "EKG463US".

"This is a huge lead," said Jessica Brown, OSBI spokeswoman. "If we can just get a hold of that gun, that will help answer a lot of questions and help progress the case quite a bit."

On June 8, 2008, 11-year-old Skyla Whitaker and 13-year-old Taylor Paschal Placker were gunned down about 100 yards from Taylor’s rural home just outside Weleetka in Okfuskee County, authorities say.

An autopsy performed by the state medical examiner’s office revealed Whitaker was shot eight times and Taylor five.

The development is welcomed news for families of both of the girls.

Whitaker's father said the last three years have been the hardest of his life.

"I know the OSBI is doing everything they can. I think this is a big step forward. It's one more link to finishing up all this," said William Whitaker.

The OSBI says whoever has this gun is not suspected in any crimes and urges the current owner to contact the OSBI at 1-800-522-8017.