Man killed while handcuffed during officer-involved shooting in Pryor; OSBI investigating

PRYOR, Okla. - State agents have been called in to investigate an officer-involved shooting in Pryor.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, a Mayes County sheriff's deputy and an off-duty Salina police officer discovered narcotics in a vehicle outside a motel around 2 a.m.

Carl Don Thomas, 26, and Robert William Rowbothom, 41, were arrested for possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute. According to the OSBI, one of the men pointed officers to a room the men were suspected of dealing the drugs in.

Upon arrival, the deputy and off-duty officer knocked on the motel door, but the room's occupants refused to open the door.

A man and woman were found in the room, and according to OSBI, were not cooperative. While subduing the woman, the handcuffed man, Will Perneau, managed to pull out a handgun from his back pocket and fired at the Salina officer, OSBI said.

The bullet reportedly narrowly missed the officer, who then shot back at Perneau, killing him.

Agents are currently gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Upon completion of the investigation, the district attorney will determine whether charges are filed.

Meanwhile, the OSBI is withholding the officers' names pending further investigation.