OSAGE COUNTY, OKLAHOMA — A 10-year-old girl who was reported missing Saturday evening from the quiet, rural community of Webb City is now safe and back with her family, following a harrowing multi-agency rescue effort that culminated in a high-speed police pursuit and the death of her suspected abductor.
Authorities confirmed the suspect as 51-year-old Jimmy Allison Schimmeles Jr., a resident of Shidler, Oklahoma. Schimmeles was fatally injured following the pursuit, bringing a dramatic and dangerous situation to an end.
A Small Town Shaken
The ordeal began late Saturday evening when a 10-year-old girl was reported missing from the Webb City area, a small, tight-knit community in Osage County. As news of the disappearance spread, local law enforcement agencies launched an immediate search, quickly enlisting assistance from state and federal authorities. Given the rural terrain and urgency of the situation, drones, K-9 units, and helicopters were deployed to aid in the search.
“Time was of the essence,” said a representative from the Osage County Sheriff’s Office. “We were dealing with a missing child and potential abduction. Every minute mattered.”
Multi-Agency Response and Pursuit
Thanks to a coordinated effort and critical intelligence, law enforcement was able to track a vehicle believed to be involved in the child’s disappearance. The vehicle, reportedly driven by Schimmeles, was spotted several hours later, prompting a high-speed chase across county lines.
Details of the pursuit remain under investigation, but officials stated the suspect failed to stop when approached by law enforcement and instead led officers on a dangerous chase at high speeds. During the chase, authorities ensured the child’s safety was prioritized while maintaining pursuit protocols.
The chase ended when the suspect’s vehicle crashed. Schimmeles was declared dead at the scene. The 10-year-old girl, found inside the vehicle, was immediately rescued and taken to safety. Fortunately, she appeared unharmed but was taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation and trauma care.
A Community Relieved
The news of the girl’s safe recovery was met with overwhelming relief in Webb City and the surrounding Osage County community. Local churches, families, and organizations that had gathered to pray and support the family during the search expressed deep gratitude to law enforcement for their swift action and successful recovery.
“We’re thankful beyond words that this little girl is safe and back where she belongs,” said a community member. “Our hearts are with her and her family as they begin to heal from this traumatic experience.”
The Investigation Continues
While the immediate danger has passed, authorities are continuing to investigate the events leading up to the abduction, including how Schimmeles may have known the victim and whether others were involved. His criminal history, motives, and digital footprint are all under review.
Officials have not yet released the name of the 10-year-old girl out of respect for her privacy and the ongoing investigation.
Law Enforcement Praised for Quick Action
The successful recovery of the child was the result of seamless collaboration between multiple agencies, including the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, FBI, local police departments, and emergency responders.
“This was the kind of situation no community ever wants to face,” said an Osage County official. “But thanks to the tireless work of our law enforcement partners and the bravery of those involved, we were able to bring this child home.”
If you have information related to this case, authorities encourage you to contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office.
