William Derek Wright, 34, was found dead in the front yard of his home in the 1600 block of Hamlin Avenue in Wichita Falls, Texas, after a welfare check on August 25, 2020. Authorities determined his death was a murder and the Wichita Falls Police Department opened an investigation.

Investigators identified 31-year-old James Gunter May as the primary suspect and arrested him in Duncan, Oklahoma. Police say they found evidence connecting May to the scene; he was held on a $1 million bond and later pleaded guilty, admitting to shooting Wright during an argument.

The case drew strong local attention because of the violence involved and the suspect’s extensive criminal history. If anyone knew William, witnessed activity near Hamlin Avenue on or around August 25, 2020, or has further information, please come forward to Wichita Falls law enforcement.