Ashland, Missouri – The Boone County Sheriff’s Office has announced an investigation into the death of William Joseph Gipson, a 43-year-old man from Ashland, Missouri, who died while in custody at the Boone County Jail on Friday, August 23, 2024. The incident occurred after Gipson was arrested by the Ashland Police Department and transferred to the jail earlier that day.
According to the sheriff’s office, Gipson was taken into custody around 3:09 PM and brought to the Boone County Jail for booking. During the booking process, Gipson reportedly became uncooperative, leading to his physical restraint by detention personnel. Details regarding the method and duration of the restraint were not provided.
At approximately 6:34 PM, a detention officer observed Gipson showing signs of medical distress while still restrained. Jail staff and medical personnel immediately attempted to provide aid, including administering CPR. However, despite their efforts, Gipson became unresponsive and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
In response to the incident, Boone County Sheriff Dwayne Carey requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol to conduct an independent investigation into Gipson’s death. The sheriff’s office has stated that no further information will be released as the investigation is currently ongoing.
The circumstances surrounding Gipson’s death have sparked various reactions on social media. Marisa Hagler commented, "I hope everyone doesn’t jump to conclusions and lets this be properly investigated so we have all the facts." Meanwhile, Jamie Brutsman expressed skepticism, saying, "And we’re supposed to trust the police?? GTFOH."
Other comments reflect growing concern over the actions taken by law enforcement. Traci Wilson-kleekamp remarked, "A show of force resulting in death. What warriors. Basically they choked him out because they don’t have any other tools in their professional box." Similarly, Anthony Willroth commented, "So y’all choked man to death or something along those lines, huh?"
As the investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol continues, many are calling for transparency and the release of video footage from the incident. Amber Cameron, referencing a similar case, stated, "This sounds a lot like that teenager killed in Idaho, while in police custody, who was autistic. Not saying this dude was, but something seems fishy here. Please release the body cam footage."
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office has yet to respond to these calls for transparency, and the community is awaiting the results of the ongoing investigation to understand the full details of what led to the tragic death of William Joseph Gipson.