Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

PR #: 2000057
Date Issued: May 18, 2020 - 3:05pm

Update: Additional charges filed in Derby Dam officer involved shooting case

CONTACT: Sarah Johns
911 Parr Blvd
Reno, NV. 89512
Office: 775-785-6235
Cell: 775-391-0407

Washoe County Sheriff's Office detectives continue to lead the regional investigation of a Sparks Police Department officer involved shooting that occurred on Interstate 80 near Derby Dam early Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

Through the extensive investigation, and processing of evidence, detectives have filed additional charges against suspect Joseph Patrick Williams who is currently in custody at the Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detention Facility.

As previously reported, at one point during the vehicle pursuit which started near the 1600 block of Victorian Avenue in Sparks and ended on Interstate-80 near mile marker 41, officers reported hearing a noise that may have been gunfire requiring officers to proceed with caution.

The investigation has determined that Williams placed officers in fear of immediate bodily harm when he used his truck to ram officer vehicles while attempting to escape. A search warrant was served on his truck and a handgun was found inside.

Williams now faces one felony charge of ex-felon in possession of a firearm, and two felony charges of assault on a peace officer.

Separate, and apart from the officer involved shooting investigation, Williams is charged with ten separate counts of violating an extended protection order for domestic violence.


The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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