MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Mayor A C Wharton and Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong held a news conference Monday about the arrest of accused cop killer Tremaine Wilbourn.
Officials gathered behind Armstrong as he opened the conference announcing Wilbourn’s arrest in the assault and shooting death of MPD Officer Sean Bolton on Saturday night in the parkway village area.
According to reports, Monday evening Director Armstrong received a phone call saying Wilbourn surrendered to U.S. Marshals at the downtown Federal Building.
Wilbourn was then taken to the Homicide Bureau where he was questioned as part of the investigation.
While there, he reportedly spoke with Director Armstrong, who said Wilbourn wanted to set one thing straight: he was not a cold-blooded killer or a coward.
Director Armstrong didn’t tell WREG his response to Wilbourn.
Memphis Police said they will release more information as it becomes available.
“I would again like to thank everyone, the citizens of Memphis, residents abroad, and fellow law enforcement agencies who have reached out with prayers, condolences, and support. In particular, I want to thank the officers of the Memphis Police Department and the US Marshals’ services for their tireless efforts,” said Director Armstrong. “I also want to thank everyone who has assisted in spreading the word and who assisted in the search. I am sure in some way this aided in Wilbourn surrendering.”
During the news conference, Armstrong also said he had been in constant contact with the Bolton family since Saturday, and immediately called them when he heard Wilbourn surrendered.
He described them using only word: relieved.
Wilbourn could be in court as soon as tomorrow for arraignment. He is expected to face first degree murder.