Keizer Police Develop Suspect in Violent Car Theft

The suspect in the May incident has been identified as 44-year old Willard Rado Stone, who uses the nickname "Billy."

The suspect has been identified as 44-year old Willard Rado Stone, who uses the nickname "Billy." Photo: Keizer Police

(KEIZER, Ore.) - Keizer Police have identified a suspect in a May Car theft that involved the owner of the vehicle being dragged and injured.

Sgt. David LeDay with Keizer Police says the incident happened around 5:00 PM on May 20th, 2007. That's when Keizer resident Robert Preston called police to report the car theft, explaining that during that incident he was dragged and injured while his truck was moving.

"The owner of the vehicle was hanging on to the rear tailgate area of the Chevy S-10 pick-up and was being dragged," LeDay said.

He says the incident occurred at a local Establishment at the intersection of River Road North and Appleblossom North. The victim was dragged for approximately seven blocks before the suspect stopped the vehicle and fled on foot."

Another shot of Stone, police aren't sure if he is wearing a goatee at this time. Photo: Keizer Police

Officers from the Keizer, Marion County and Salem Police responded to the scene. LeDay says police used a K-9 but they had no luck finding the suspect. Preston was taken to Salem Hospital Emergency room to be treated for non life threatening injuries.

LeDay says that suspect has been identified as 44-year old Willard Rado Stone, who uses the nickname "Billy."

"The Keizer Police have tried to locate Mr. Stone without success. He currently has outstanding warrants for his arrest that are unrelated to this incident and we are asking the public for their help in locating him."

Stone is described as a white male. Five foot six inches tall, weighing 155 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. LeDay adds that he may or may not have a goatee and mustache. His hair is starting to gray, LeDay added.

"Any help leading to the apprehension of Mr. Stone would be greatly appreciated. If you know the whereabouts of Mr. Stone please contact your local police department and do not try to apprehend him yourself, as he may be dangerous. If you have any additional information about this case please contact Det. Vaughn Edsall or Officer Juan Mendoza at 503-390-3713."