Red Oak man wanted for attempted murder, kidnapping

RED OAK — A Red Oak man is wanted on kidnapping and attempted murder charges.

Monday afternoon, the Red Oak Police Department received a walk-in complaint from Shelby Schmitz, 22, Red Oak, advising that after she entered the residence of William Elliott, 57, he forced her into the basement of his residence, doused her with gasoline and threatened to set her on fire.

Schmitz was able to escape and went to the Montgomery County Law Enforcement Center. She was taken to Montgomery County Memorial Hospital and is in stable condition, according to Police Chief Drue Powers.

A search warrant was issued for Elliott’s residence in the 200 block of E. Maple St. Police forced entry, but Elliott was not present.

A separate narcotics search warrant was issued and several narcotics-related items were found.

Elliott is wanted on charges of first-degree kidnapping, class A felony, and attempted murder, class B felony. 

Elliott was arrested last Friday, Nov. 8 and Sept. 12 for harassment by communication. He was on six months probation.

Powers said the most recent harassment charge was filed by Schmitz.

Anyone with information on Elliott’s whereabouts is asked to contact the police department at 623-6500 or Montgomery County Crime Stoppers at 800-432-1001.

More information will be released as it becomes available.