Document date: 00/00/0000

# DOCID-32989768

## Page 1

Released under the John F. Kennedy

Assassination Records Collection Act of

1992 (44 USC 2107 Note). Case#:NW

65994 Date: 11-02-2021

File #:

62-JN-544

Serial Scope:

Ithm 9.14 thru l6. 18.22.23.25 theuznd NR 53

54 them 110

DO NOT

DESTROY

FOIPA# NA

NW/ 6599X-Uoeld 32989760-Page-1

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## Page 2

VZCZCHQO 019

RR JN

DE HQ D019 0732309

ZNR UUUUU

R 141456Z MAR 78

FM DIRECIOR FBI

TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

BI

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA>

IN CONNECIION WITH INVESTIGATION BY THE HSCA INTO THE

ASSASSINATION OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., STAFF MEMBERS OF THE

HSCA HAVE REQUESTED IO INTERVIEW JAMES W. SAMMON OF THE JACKSON

OFFICE, CURRENTLY UNDER TRANSFER TO JACKSONVILLE. SAMMON IS

SCHEDULED FOR INTERVIEW ON THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 1978, AT 2 P.M.

AT THE COMMITTEE 'S OFFICES IN WASHINGION, DO C.

SAMMON HAS BEEN RELEASED FROM HIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT AND

IS AUTHORIZED TO PARTICIPATE IN HSCA INTERVIEW. HE SHOULD RE-

PORT TO FBIHQ ON THE DAY PRIOR IO SCHEDULED INTERVIEW. REPORT

TO ROOM 3658 OR 8988 FOR INSTRUCIIONS REGARDING INTERVIEW.

BI

0019

62-544-2

EARCHED

MAR 1 4 1978

ASACOM

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 2

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## Page 3

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

39205

In Reply, Please Refer to

File No.

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

On March 16, 1978, from 2:12 p-m., to

3:54 p.m.; SA James W. Sammon, assigned Jackson,

MisSisSippi, IBI Division, appeared before representatives

of the House Select Committee on Assassinations (HSCA)

at Washington, D.C.

SA Sammon was questioned by Mark A, Speiser,

Peter G. Beeson, and Wendy. S. Collins, all of whom

identified themselves through the use of credentials,

as being associated with aforementioned committee.

At the outset, SA Sammon was asked to furnish

background information concerning his career with the

FBI, the number of offices and dates assigned and

classifications worked.

SA Sammon was asked to identify Special

Agents in Charge (SACs) and Assistant Special Agents

in Charge (ASAGs) assigned to the Miami, Florida,

FBI Office during the period of 1961-1964, when

SA Sammon was so assigned to that office.

The identity

of these SAts was furnished as Wesley G. Grapp and

Fred A. Frobrose (phonetic). It was explained that

former SAC Frobrose is now deceased.

SA Sammon was asked to identify members of

his squad while he was assigned to the Miami Office.

SA Sammon advised that he would be unable to identify

each and every Agent assigned to the Number 5 squad

during the years of 1951 and 1964 inclusive, due to the

length of time that had transpired since that period.

4-Bureau

@-Jackson (62-544)

JWS /bjw

(5)

This document contains neither recommendations not conclusions

of the EBl. It is the property of the fBl and is Loaned

to your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed

outside your agency.

Searcher.

Str 11212:2

Filed

62-544-8

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 3

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HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

SA Sammon was then asked if SAs Francis McCarron,

Jack Dawson, Vincent Stacey, Leon Pryor, and Leonard

C. Peterson. were assigned to the Number 5 squad in

Miami trom 1901 through 1964.

SA Sammon replied

that at he stron e or were so a great ed

s recollection

SA Sammon was then asked to give a breakdown

by classifications as to the responsibilities of each

of the six Miami squads from 1961 through 1964, which

information was furnished to the committee representatives.

SA Sammon was

asked to elaborate on the assignment of

responsibilities

to the Number 5 squad of Miami during

that period of time.

Those classifications furnished

of that squad were applicants, accounting matters,

Including Hoffa and teamster investigations; civil

rights;

racial matters; and tugitive matters.

It was explained

that these were the major classifications assigned the

Number 5

squad.

SA Sammon was questioned

regarding his transfer

from Miami to the Jackson Division in July, 1964, his

location and investigative responsibilities while assigned

to Mississippi, which reply was to the effect that Sammon

Clarksdate s

Resident

Headquarters of the FBI from 1969 to the present time.

Mississippi, Resident Agency, he worked any and all

which pertained to the territory covered by that

resident agency•

In response to a direct question,

SA Sammon advised that his transfer from Miami to

Jackson, Mississippi, was a routine nature and not of

a disciplinary nature.

In response to

to the Miami Division during the period of 1961-1964.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 4

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## Page 5

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

SA Sammon was asked to identify Intelligence

JIViSIOn Officers of the Miami, Florida, Police

which SA Sammon was unable to do, nor

was Sammon

Department, in a position to advise whether of not

any information furnished by Somerset was disseminated

to that intelligence unit during the period of

1961-1964•

SA Sammon was then queried at length regarding

Ku Klux Klan activity in Mississippi beginning in 1964,

in particular, - information regarding United Klars of -

America (UKA), White Knights of the Ku KLux Klan

of the WKKKK

regarding Klan activities in Mississippi since his

arrival in 1964.

SA sammon was then asked if he had conducted

any investigation regarding

"Merkin'

• SA Sammon replied

that immediately after the shooting death of Dr. Martin

Luther King, SA Sammon was assigned the responsibility

of traveling through North Mississippi with photographs

of the evidence left by King's assailant, exhibiting

those photographs at motels, service stations, in

North Mississippi to determine if any of the photographs

could be identified.

SA Sammon was asked if he was aware of Somerset's

attempt to assassinate King in Montgomery, Alabama,

in 1958 through poisoning his food.

SA Sammon advised

the committee that he was not aware of any such attempts.

SA Sammon was then queried regarding Bureau

regulations regarding amounts of money paid informants and

policy of the Bureau to overseeing those payments.

SA Sammon explained to the committee that such amounts

are normally determined by the Agent contacting the

informant and are paid on a COD basis based on the value

of the intormation furnished by the informant. SA Sammon

advised that the Bureau oversees these payments only in

an auditing or accounting of the particular informant's

payment fund.

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 5

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## Page 6

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

SA Sammon was then questioned regarding the

Bureau policy in discontinuing informants and if the

informants are advised that they are being so discontinued.

SA Sammon advised that the informant is so advised when

he is discontinued,

usually determined when the informant

has furnished

a lack of positive information, or when

he has exposed himself as an informant, and of course

upon his death.

SA Sammon was then questioned regarding

Somerset's personal involvement in violence;

Somerset's

personal bigotry toward minority races; his bigotry

regarding

union membership; his carrying of weapons;

and Somerset's knowledge, of explosive devices; and

intormation furnished by

Somerset regarding Thomas

Albert "Tonny" Tarrants

To these questions, SA Sammon advised that he

did not have any personal information of acts of violence

performed by Somerset; and that the only personal bigotry

exhibited by Somerset was Somerset's apparent dislike

for SA Sammon, as Somerset felt that SA Sammon was

of Jewish descent. SA Sammon advised that he had no

knowledge of any acts of bigotry in union membership as

indicated by Somerset, nor was SA Sammon aware of Somerset

ever carrying a weapon or Somerset's knowledge of any

explosive devices.

SA Sammon advised the committee that \

regarding Thomas Albert

was acquainted with Tarrants, having been involved in sammon

firearms shootout confrontation with Tarrants in 1969.

The committee pressed for further details concerning

this shootout and the committee was advised that in

August, 1969, Tarrants and two other inmates of the

Mississippi State Penitentiary (MSP), Parchman, Mississippi,

escaped from that penitentiary and were thereafter subjects

of an unlawful flight to avoid confinement investigation,

and were considered by the EBl to be federal fugitives.

the committee was advised that in August, 1yby, Intormatior

was received by the Jackson, Mississippi, Office that the

three escapees were hiding in a heavily wooded dense area

Thereafter, SA Sammon and

many other Jackson, Mississippi, Agents attempted to

locate and apprehend Tarrants and the two other inmates,

which attempts resulted in a gun battle, causing

one of the inmates, name unrecalled, to

be killed by

4

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 6

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## Page 7

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

Law entorcement officers, consisting Of ibi Agents,

Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol (MHSP) officers,

and those of the Rankin County Sheriff's Office.

The committee was advised that this was SA Sammon's

First and last contact with Tarrants.

SA Sammon

in answer to specific questions, advised that he hac

no personal knowledge of the acts of larrants periormec

on a residence of a Jewish businessman

in Meridian,

Mississippi.

SA Sammon was then questioned regarding the

availability of FBI informants to other Federal or

local law enforcement agencies, and the Bureau policy

as pertaining to that availability. SA Sammon advised

• the committee that it is the practice of the FBI,

as well as other law enforcement agencies, not to

reveal the identity of Bureau informants to those

agencies, even though the information furnished by

those informants may be disseminated to those agencies.

The committee at this point took exception with

SA sammon indicating it was their feeling that the fBi

"receives all information but does not share information"

with other law enforcement agencies, Federal,

state, and

local.

the committee at this point

was unequivocally

advised that this has not and is not the case of the fBi,

and that information obtained by the EBI which is of an

interest to those agencies,

is disseminated to them,

even though the identity of the informant furnishing

such information is not revealed to those agencies.

SA Sammon was again asked for his knowledge

as to the availability of Bill Somerset to the Intelligence

Unit of the Miami, Florida, Police Department, to which

sA sammon again advised that he was not aware of such

availability during the years of 1961-1964, the only

period that sA Sammon was acquainted with Somerset.

SA Sannon was asked as to the degree of

contidence and reliability regarding the intormation

furnished by Somerset while an fbl informant.

SA Sammon

advised from 1961-1964, it was his opinion that the

information furnished by Somerset was reliable, and that

(ur 19d by

SA Sammon had confidence in that information.

5

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 7

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## Page 8

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

Florida,

FBI Office from 1961-1964, SA Sammon advised

the committee that as that period of time was from

14-17 years in the past, SA Sammon would try to be as

accurate as

possible as

to months and years involved;

however,

the committee was reminded SA Sammon's

recollection of the events may be six months to perhaps •

a year off. Mark Speiser advised SA Sammon that the

committee would only allow a four month leeway. This

comment may have been misunderstood by SA Sammon and

may have been in jest by Speiser; however, in any regard,

Speiser was advised that SA Sammon stood on his previous

statement that events occurring 14-17 years ago would be

timed as accurately as SA Sammon possibly could; however,

there would be no

four month allowance"

imposed

on SA Sammon, unless the committee intended to furnish

him documentary verification.

There was no such

documentary verification furnished SA Sammon during

his interrogation, with the exception of SA Sammon

being furnished a

to be the

"parade" lengthy article from what appeared

or pictorial section of the Miami,

Florida, Herald, Sunday Supplement Newspaper, which

article appeared to be regarding Bill Somerset.

article was furnished SA Sammon briefly in an effort

to identify Somerset by photograph as it appeared in

the article.

SA Sammon was unable to positively identify

Somerset, due to the length of time involved, and the

advised the committee that the poor photograph dic

resemble somerset; however, if the committee had not

advised Sammon that it was of Somerset, SA Sammon

would be unable to identify him.

SA Sammon was not

furnished the article to read.

6

NW 65994 • Docld:32989768 Page 8

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## Page 9

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

SA Sammon was furnished a name of an

individual in Miami, Florida, which name SA Sammon

failed to record

and therefore the identity of

that individual is not recalled by SA Sammon.

SA Sammon was asked by the committee if he was

acquainted with this individual.

SA Sammon advised

the individual was unknown to him.

SA Sammon was then advised that this

individual was a house painter in Miami, and SA

Sammon was asked if Bill Somerset was acquainted

with this individual.

ATT. SA Sammon advised that he then recalled

that this individual may be identical to a person ::

who was at the scene of the James Meredith

Integration disorder at the University of Mississip,

xIora, Mississippi, which SA Sammon believed to

be in 1963.

The committee was advised that the

incident arose over Meredith, a Negro, attempting

to register to attend the University of Mississippi.

SA Sammon recalled that a lead was received

at the Miami Office to identify and interview this

Miami house painter as his vehicle had been observed

at the University of Mississippi campus during the

disorder involving the registration of Meredith at

that university.

SA Sammon advised that he and SA Leonard

C. Peterson contacted Bill Somerset for background

information on this individual and that Somerset

was acquainted with house painter and furnished

SA Peterson background information concerning this

Individual, to the best of SA Sammon's recollection

involving the house painter being a member of

National States Rights Party (NSRP).

Thereafter, SA Sammon assisted SA Peterson

in-the interview of this individual in Miami in either

the summer of 1963 or 1964.

SA Sammon recalled that

the individual

was painting a house at the time of the

7

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 9

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## Page 10

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

interview, was very hostile towards the interviewing

Agents; however, at the persistence of SA Peterson

he was interviewed regarding his appearance at the

University of Mississippi.

A short time thereafter, an article appeared

In the newspaper of the NSRP on the front page which

was submitted by this house painter.

This article

referred to his interview with. SA Peterson and SA

'a blond haired

and to SA Sammon as

a Jew bastard" or words

to that effect.

SA Sammon was asked if he was acquainted with

Joseph A. Milteer,

or if Somerset ever furnished any

information regarding Milteer and his activities.

Sammon advised he was not acquainted with MIlteer and

did not recall Somerset furnishing any information.

regarding him.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 10

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## Page 11

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

[X] Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

[7 Immediate

0] Priority

• Routine

CLASSn

•ATION:

[J TOP SECRET

L SECRET

I CONFIDENTIAL

I CLEAR

Date

3/28/78

TO :

DIRECTOR, FBI (62-117290)

FROM:

SAG, JACKSON (62-544) (G)

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSGA)

Enclosed for the Bureau are original and

three copies of an LIM raflecting results of interview.

Of SA JAMES M. SAMMON by representatives of aforemenzioned

committee 3/16/78, at Washington, D.G.

•Y)

2-Bureau (Enc. 4)

→ Jackson

JWS/ b]W

(3)

11J66

6:2-54X-9

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 11

Transmitted -

(Cranber)

(Tine)

Per

hon: 1 991-205-121

---

## Page 12

VZCZCHQO 135

RR JW KX ME

DE HQ 0135 1380140

ZNY EEEEE

R 172149Z MAY 78

FM DIRECIOR FBI (62-117290)

'TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

FBI KNOXVILLE ROUTINE

FBI MEMPHIS ROUTINE

BT

157.205

UNCLAS E FIO

103-411

HOUSE SELECI COMMITTEE ON ASSASSI

CIONS (HSCA)

157-4326%e

HSCA, BY LETTER DATED MAY

3;

1978, REQUESTED ALL INFOR -

MATION IN THE FILES OF THE JACKSON, KNOXVILLE AND MEMPHIS FIELD

OFFICES: CONCERNING BUFORD WALLACE POSEY, DATE OF BIRTH AUGUST 28,

1925. HSCA OBTAINED WAIVER FROM POSEY ALLOWING FOR RELEASE OF

ALL INFORMATION HELD BY THE FBI TO THE COMMITTEE.

EACH RECEIVING OFFICE SHOULD SEARCH INDICES FOR ABOVE -

NAMED INDIVIDUAL AND DUPLICATE ANY FILES AND REFERENCES FOUND

IDENTICAL WITH POSEY. THIS MATERIAL SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO

FBI HEADQUARTERS, AITENIION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, BY

CLOSE OF BUSINESS MAY 26, 1973.

BI

0135

attached

5(18/78

FD -160,

gend

62-544-14

SEARCHED

INDEXED

5/24/18

MAY 1 7 1978

*BL-JACKSON

7543

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 12

Po, re-shack indures.

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## Page 13

Salteas Seract Slip

1190880 (RoT. 10-1-58)

Deto

FOR SHISE CLERK

Banjeet

5/18/78

Buford: Wallaco Rosey.

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

8/38/25

Sizia Criminal Case Files Only

/Restrict, to Locality of

Criminal References Only

Mala Subrasmire (11 no Main, liat all Subrersita References)

1 Moda Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serial Number

Remarks

Sex

_Femalo

1 Excet Spelliag

(All References

¡Mala Subressivo Case Files Only

"Subrorsive References Only

1113 & Serial Number

157-2083*

100-491*

157-9326-109

Yero Copy of all the abone serial

sent Bureau

till

544-14

Extenalon

File No.

Frenched by

Kaion Bracey.

anitalldalad by

(dare)

(date)

Fila Ravior Symbolo

& N/62984 Dold: 32989768 Page! Edentitablo

---

## Page 14

VZCZCHOU 135

RA JN KX NE

DE HO 0135 1330140

ZHY BEZEE

R 112149% MAY 78

FM DIRECIOR FBI (52-1172901)

TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

FBI KNOXVILLE ROUTINE

FBI MEUPHIS ROUTINE

ET

UNCLAS EFTO

HOUSE SELECI CORITICE ON ASSASSINATIONO (HECA>

HSCA, BY LETTER DATED NET

3y 1075, RECUESTED ALL IUFOR

NATION IN THE FILEG OF THE JACHEON, KNOKVILLE AND CIPHIS FIELD

UFFICES COLCERUIRG BUFORD VALLACE POSEY, DATE OF DIRTH AUSUSS ER,

1925. ESCA OBTAINED WAIVER FROD POSEY ALLOWING FOR RELEASE OF

ALL INFURNATION HELD DY THE FEL TO ThE COUTITTEE +

EACH RECEIVING OFFICE SHOULD SEARCH LUDICES FOR AGOVE

CAMED INDIVIDUAL ALD DUPLICATE ANY FILES AND REFERENCES FOUDD

IDENTICAL WITH POSEY. THIS MATERJAL SHOULD DE SUBMITTED IO

FEI HEADQUARTERS, ATIENTION& COUGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, BY

CLOSE OF BUSINESS MAY C6, 19*7€9

BT

0135

62-544-14

* DHE2

от 3кn

MAY 1 7 1978

2, 4.1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 14

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## Page 15

FD. $S (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

13 Teletype

L.] Facsimile

[x] Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

Immediate

Priority

Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

[J TOP SECRET

I SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

LETO

I CLEAR

Date

5/23/78

TO:

DIRECTOR, FBI (62-117290)

ATTENTION:

CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

FROM:

SAG, JACKSON (62-544)

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

• ON ASSASSINATION (HSCA)

Re Bureau teletype 5/17/78, captioned as above,

Enclosed herewith are as follows:

1. Serial 109 from Jackson 157-9326 (2 pages)

2. Serials 1 - 23 from Jackson 157-2083g

including 2 letters from lA (57 pages)

3.

Serials 1 - 46 from Jackson 100-491,

including 1Al (130 pages)

iX

The above enclosures are concerning BUFORD

HALLICE POSEY, born 8/28/25.

error in serializing where said number was skipped.

2 - Bureau (69)

(I, - Jackson

AJW/dst diat

(3)

Matto

7143

Waits for

Per

Approved:

7,73

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 15

Transmitted

(Number)

(T'ime)

CP: 19770-225-939

---

## Page 16

VZCZCHQO 156 :

RR JN

DE HQ

0106 1440055

ZNR UUUUU

R 242119Z MAY 78

FM DIRECTOR FBI (62-117290)

TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

BI

UNCLAS

SELECT COMP

REFEREN

TEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

JACKSON TELETYPE TO BUREAU APRIL 24, 1968, CAP-

TIONED "HURKIN."

THE HSCA IS CURRENTLY CONDUCIING INVESTIGATION INTO THE

ASSASSINATIONS OF JOHN F. KENNEDY AND MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR 03

AND HAS REVIEWED VOLUMINOUS EXCISED' DOCUMENTS REGARDING THE

ASSASSINATION CASES AND RELATED INVESTIGATIONS. UPON REVIEV' OF

REFERENCED COMMUNICATION, THE ASCA DESIRES IO INTERVIEW INFOR -

MANTS WHO SUPPLIED INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN. BY REQUEST

DATED MAY 18, 1978, THE COMMITTEE REQUESTED THE FBI CONTACT

THESE INFORMANIS TO DETERMINE IF THEY WOULD BE AGREEABLE IO

INTERVIEW BY THE MSCA. THE HSCA HOPES INTERVIEW CAN BE CON-

DUCTED PRIOR IO JUNE 2, 1978:

62-544016

SEARCHED

R

INDEXED ONE

SERIALIZE

10BSS FILED-

5/31/282

00:

a

MAY 2 4 1978

Kipling

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 16

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## Page 17

PAGE TWO DE HQ MING UNCLAS

INFORMATION IN REFERENCED COMMUNICATION WAS PROVIDED BY THE

FOLLOWING FORMER INFORMANTS:

•1. UN 340-9, BUREAU FILE 179-1565, JACKSOR PILE 173-4599

OPERATED BETVEEN AUGUST, 1967 - APRIL, 1973.

2. JACKSON 337-R, BUREAU FILE 170-1518, JACKSON FILE 178-

457, OPERATED BETWEEN JULY, 1967 - NOVEMBER, 1973.

JACKSON ATTEMPI TO CONTACT INFORITANTS AND ADVISE EACH TRAI

THE ASCA DESIRES TO INTERVIEW THEM CONCERNING INFORMATION THEY •

PROVIDED IN REFERENCED COMMUNICATION. THEY SHOULD BE TOLD THAI

TO THE FBI'S KNOWLEDGE, THE

HSCA IS NOT AWARE OF THEIR RELATION-

SHIP WITH THE FBI OR THEIR IDENTITIES. DETERMINE IF THE INFOR -

HANTS HAVE ANY OBJECTION TO BEING INTERVIEWED BY REPRESENTATIVES

OF THE HSCA. IF THERE ARE NO OBJECIIONS IQ INTERVIEW, INFOR -

MANTS SHOULD BE FURNISHED THE IDENTITIES AND, TELEPHONE. NUMBER

OF THE FULLOWING HSCA PERSONNEL IN ORDER THAT INFORMANTS CAI

TELEPHONICALLY CONTACT THE HSCA AND MAKE THEIR OWN ARRANGEMENIS

FOR INTERVIEW • INFORMANIS CAN THEREFORE PERSONALLY NEGOTIATE

THE SCOPE OF INTERVIEW AND THE CONFIDENIIALITY OF INFORMATION

THEY MAY PROVIDE THE COMMITTEE.

INFORANTS SHOULD BE GIVEN THE NAMES OF MARK SPEISER AND

NW 65994 Docld:32989768• Page 17

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## Page 18

PAGE THREE DE HQ 8ID6 UNCLAS

PETER BEESON, BOTH HSCA STAFF ATTORNEYS, WHO CAN BE CONTACTED

COLLECI AT 202-225-2353, UPON. CALLING, INFORMANIS SHOULD FUR-

NISH THEIR IDENTITIES AND ADVISE THEY WERE THE INDIVIDUALS WHO

PRUVIDED THE JACKSON OFFICE OF THE FBI INFORMATION CONCERNING

ACIIVITIES AT JOHN'S CAFE, LAUREL, MISSISSIPPI, IN APRIL, 1968..

SUTEL RESULTS OF CONTACT WITH INFORMANIS TO FBIHQ, ATTEN-

TION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEMENT DIVISION.

EXPEDITE IN VIEW OF COMMITTEE'S DESIRE TO INTERVIEW INFORMANIS,

IF AGREEABLE, PRIOR IO JUNE 2, 1978.

NNNY 14401002 JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 18

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## Page 19

VZCZ/ 1Q0106

RA JN

DE HO

0106.1440055

ZUR NUUUU

R 2421197 MAY 76

FI DIRECTOR

F81 (62-117290)

TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

BT

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (NSCA)

REFERENCE JACKSON TELETYPE TO BUREAU- APRIL 24, 1988g CAP

TIONED "MURKIN."

IHE, ASCA IS CURRENTLY CONDUCTIRO INVESTIGATION INTO THE

ASSASSINATIONS OF JONN F. KENNEDY AND MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR,

AND HAS REVIEWED VOLUMINOUS EXCISED DOCUMENTS REGARDING THE :

ASSASSINATION CASES AND RELATED INVESTICATIONS. UPON REVIEW OF

REFERENCED COMMUNICATION, THE MSCA DESIRES TO INTERVIEW INFOR

MANTS WHO SUPPLIED INFORMATION CONTAINED THEREIN- BY REQUEST

DATED MAY 18, 1978, THE COMMITTEE REQUESTED THE FBE CONTACT

THESE INFORMANTS TO DETERMINE IF THEY WOULD DE AGREEABLE TO

INTERVIEW BY THE ASCA• THE ISCA MOPES: INTERVIEW. CAN BE. CON-

DUCTED

PRIOR IO JUNE 2, 19780;

62-544-1

SEARCHED

SERIALIZE OKAILED.

• INDEXED

MAY 2 4 1978

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 19

---

## Page 20

PAGE TWO DE MO MING UNCLAS

INFORMATION IN. REFERENCED. COMMUMICATION WAS PROVIDED BY THE

FOLLOWING FORMER INFORMANTS:

•1o JO. 340-3, BUREAU FILE

170-1565, NACKSON FILE 179-459,

OPERATED BETWEEN AUGUST, 1967 - APRIL, 1973.

2o JACKSON 337-5, BUREAU FILE 170-1516, JACKSON FILE 177-

457, OPERATED SEIVEEN JULY, 1967 - NOVEMBER, 1073.

JACKSON ATTEMPT TO CONTACT INFORMANTS AND ADVISE EACH THAT

THE MSCA DESIRES TO INTERVIEW THEM CONCERNING INFORMATION IHEY

PROVIDED IN REFERENCED COMMUNICATION, THEY SHOULD BE TOLD THAT

TO THE FBI'S KNOWLEDGE, THE NSCA IS NOT AWARE OF THEIR RELATION-

SHIP WITH THE FBI OR THEIR IDENTITIES, DETERMINE IF THE INFON-

MANIS HAVE ANY OBJECTION TO BEING INTERVIEVED BY REPRESENTATIVES

OF THE HSCA. IF THERE ARE NO OBUECTIONS TO INTERVIEU, INFOR

MANTS SHOULD BE FURMISHED THE IDERTITIES AND

TELEPHONE NUMBER

OF THE FOLLOWING MSCA PERSONNEL IN ORDER THAT INFORMANZS CAN

TELEPHONICALLY CONTACI THE NECA AND PAKE THEIR OWN ARRANGEMENIS

FOR INTERVIEW. INFORMANIS CAN THEREFORE PERSONALLY NEGOTIATE

THE SCOPE OF INTERVIEW AND THE CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORNATION

THEY MAX PROVIDE THE COMMITTEE:

INFORMANTS SHOULD BE GIVEN THE NAVES OF MARK SPEISER AND

NW 65994 Docld:32989766 Page 20

---

## Page 21

VZCZ: i00 10G

RA JU

DE Ha

A106 1448055

ZIR BUUDU

# 2421192 MAY 70

FiX DIRECTON FEI (62-117290)

TO FBI JACKSON ROUTINE

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTER

ON AESASSINATIONS (ASCA)

REPENENCE JAGHSON TELETYPE TO BURGAU APRIL 34, ICE, GIPM

TIONED "MURKIN"*

THE HECA IS CURRENILY CORDUOTING INVESTIGATION INTO THE

ASSASSINATIOUS OF JONW FO KEANEDY AND MANTIN LUTHER KILS, JES

AND HAS REVIENED VOLUMINOUS EXCISED DOCUMENDS ROGARDING THE

ASSASSINATION CASES NO RELATED INVEOTICATIONS. UPON REVIEW UF

REFERENCED CONCUNICATION, THE LECA DESIRES TO INTERVIE INFORT

MANIS WHO SUPPLIOD INFORMATION CONTAINEN THEREIN. BY REQUEST

DATED MAY 15, 1976, THE COMMISICE RECUESTED THE FEI CONTACT

THESE INFORMANIS TO DETERMINE IF THEY WOULD DE AGREEABLE TO

INTENVIEU BY THE NSCA, THE NSCA HOPES INTERVIEW CAN DE COP-

DUCTED PRIOS TO JUNE E, 1975.

62-544-11

SEARCHED

SERIALIZED O KANILED

_ INDEXED

MAY 2 4 1978

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 21

---

## Page 22

PAGE TO DE HO RING UNCLAS

INFORMATIOY IN. REFERENCED CORMUMIGATION AS PROVIDED BY INE

FOLLOILG FORNER INFORINNIE:

Le i 3405, BURENU FILE 17-1585, MACIEOS FILE 170-459,

OPERATED BETIRED AUGUST, 1007 - APRIL, 1973.

Po WACKSOl 337-3, BUARAU FILE 170-1514, JACKEON FILE 17:

457, OPERATED BETUECH JULY, 1067 - NOVEIERS 1973€

JACKSON ATTEAPT TO CONCACT INFORAOTE AGO ADVISE EACH THAT

THE USCA DESIRES TO IUTERVIEU THEM CONCORZING INFORMALION THEY

PROVIDED IN REFERENCED CONUUNICATION• IMEY GHOULD DE TOLD THAT

TU THE FEITE NOTLEDGE, THE HSCA IN KOT MARE OF THEIR RELATIOU

SHIP WITH THE FEI OR THEIR IDDUTILIES. DETERMINE IF THE INFOR

MARTS HAVE ANY OBJECTION TO BEING INTERVISIED DY REPRESERTATIVES

OF THE HSCA, IF THERE ARE GO ODJECTIONS TO LITERVICE TUFOR

RANTS SHOULD DE FURNISHED THE IDEMIITIES AD FELEPHONE KUREER

OF THE FOLLOVING NSCA PERSONNEL IN ORDER THAT INFORMAIS CAN

TELEPHONICALLY COLTAGI THE NECA AND NAVE INDIR DUE ARRALGENZUTS

FOR INTERVIEN, INFORUNNES CAN THEREFORE PERSONALLY NOGDITATE

THE SCOPE UF INTERVIEU AUD THE CONFIDEUTIALITY OF INFORIATION

THEY MAY PROVIDE THE COMMITTEE.

IUFORMANTS SHOULD BE GIVEN THE NAMES OF INNE SPEISCA AND

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 22

---

## Page 23

PAGE THREC DE HO DIGG UNCLAS

PETER BEESON, SOTH HSCA STATE ATICRICYS, GHO CAN DE CONTACTED

COLLECT AT 002-225-3353, UPO CALLING, IUFORHSNDS GOULD FUR-

WISH THEIR IDENTITIES AND ADVISE THEY VERE THE INDIVIDUALS WHU

PROVIDED THE JACKSON OFFICE OF INE FOI INFORJATION CONCERNIIG

ACIIVIIIES AT JOHN'S CAFE, LAUREL, MISSISSIPPI, IN APRIL, 19680

SUTEL, RESULTS OF CONTACT WIIM LUFORMNLIS IO FBIRDS ATTEN-

TION: COLGREESIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, ACCORDS MALAGEIENT DIVISIO!.

EXPEDITE IN VIE! OF COMMITTEE'S DESIRE TO INTERVIE! INFORMATIS,

IF AGREEABLE, PRIOR TO JUNG E, 1075%

BT

5106

DWIN 14401902 JI

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 23

---

## Page 24

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

& Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

& Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

I SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

ДЕЕТО

XI CLEAR UnClas

Date

5/26/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) ROUTINE

BT

UNCLAS

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEMENT

DIVISION.

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATION (HSCA)

RE BUREAU TELETYPE DATED MAY 24, 1978.

ON MAY 26, 1978, JN 340-R, BUREAU FILE 170-1565, JACKSON

FILE 170-459, INTERVIEWED AND OBJECTS TO INTERVIEW BY

REPRESENTATIVES OF HSCA IN VIEW OF CURRENT EMPLOYMENT STATUS.

IN 340-R STILL EMPLOYED AT JOHN'S CAFE, LAUREL, MISS., AND

FEELS LIFE WOULD BE PLACED IN JEOPARDY IF IDENTITY WAS MADE

KNOWN.

REVIEW OF JACKSON FILE 170-457 PERTAINING TO JN 337-R

DISCLOSED A NEWSPAPER CLIPPING FROM THE LAUREL LEADER CALL,

A LAUREL, MISS., NEWSPAPER, DATED MARCH 4, 1974, COPY FURNISHED

62-544-18

1) - Jackson

LCB/njb

(1)

Searched

Serialized

Indéxed.

Ripley fo

Transmitted

003

(Number)

2200 ₴

(Time)

Per

Approved: K/3218

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 24

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 25

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

_ Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

• CLEAR

Date

PAGE TWO JN 62-544

UNCLAS

TO FBIHQ WHICH REFLECTS THAT INFORMANT WAS SHOT AND KILLED BY

A SHOTGUN BLAST FIRED BY HIS BROTHER-IN-LAW. INFORMANT WAS

PRONOUNCED DEAD ON ARRIVAL AT JONES COUNTY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

AND CAUSE OF SHOOTING HAD NOT BEEN DETERMINED AS OF THE DATE OF

THE NEWSPAPER ARTICLE.

вт.

Approved: .

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 25

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 26

VZCZCHQOD85

RR AL AI BA BH BS BU CE CG CI CV DN DE HO IP JN JK KC LA

ME MM MI MP MO NK NH NO NY OM PH PX PG PD RH SC SL SD SF SE SI

TP WF

DE HQ 0085 1570042

ZNY EEEEE

R 052105Z JUN 78

FM DIRECIOR FBI (62 117290)

TO FBI ALBANY

FBI ATLANTA

FBI BALTIMORE

FBI BIRMING HAM

FBI BOSTON

FBI BUFFALO

FBI CHARLOTTE

FBI CHICAGO

FBI CINCINNATI

FBI CLEVELAND

FBI DENVER

FBI DETROIT

FBI HOUSTON

FBI INDIANAPOLIS

FBI JACK SON

62-544-22

SERAIZO E OR TAE

SERIALIZED_

JUN 5

1978

BI-JACKSOI

Nenta

spot Bulel.

FBI JACKSONVILLE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 26

---

## Page 27

. •

PAGE TWO DE HQ 0085 UNCLAS E FI O

FBI KANSAS CITY

FBI LOS ANGELES

FBI MEMPHIS

FBI MIAMI

FBI MILWAUKEE

FBI MINNEAPOLIS

FBI MOBILE

FBI NEWARK

FBI NEW HAVEN

FBI NEW ORLEANS

FBI NEW YORK

FBI OMAHA

FBI PHILADELPHIA

FBI PHOENIX

FBI PITTSBURGH

FBI PORTLAND

FBI RICHMOND

FBI SACRAMENTO

FBI SAN DIEGO

FBI SAN FRANCISCO

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 27

---

## Page 28

, *

PAGE THREE DE HQ 0085 UNCLAS E F I O

FBI SEATTLE

FBI SPRINGFIELD

FBI ST. LOUIS

FBI TAMPA

FBI WASHING ION FIELD OFFICE

BT

UNCLAS E FT O

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

BUDED JUNE 12, 1978.

RE: BULET TO ALBANY, ET AL, AUGUST 25, 1967, CAPTIONED

"COUNTERINTELLIGENCE PROGRAM, BLACK NATIONALISI-HATE GROUPS,

INTERNAL SECURITY" AND "BUAIRTEL TO ALBANY, ET AL, MARCH 4,

1968, CAPTIONED "COUNTERINTELLIGENCE PROGRAM, BLACK NATION-

ALIST-HATE GROUPS, RACIAL INTELLIGENCE"•

THE HSCA WHICH IS INVESTIGATING THE ASSASSINATION OF

JOHN F. KENNEDY AND MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., NOTING THAT

REFERENCED COMMUNICATIONS ASKED RECIPIENT OFFICES TO MAKE

PERIODIC REPORIS TO THE BUREAU, HAS REQUESTED THAI RECIPIENT

FIELD OFFICE FILES BE SEARC ED AND AUL REPORTS, LETTERHEAD

MEMORANDA, AIRTELS, LETTERS AND TELETYPES CONCERNING

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 28

---

## Page 29

• PAGE "OUR DE HQ DOSS

SUNGLAS EFTO

DR - MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., OR THE SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE (SCLC) SUBMITTED PURSUANT TO REFERENCED

COMMUNICATIONS UP TO AND INCLUDING DECEMBER 31, 1968, BE

PREPARED FOR DELIVERY.

THE HSCA REQUESTED THAT OUR RESPONSE IN THIS MATTER BE

GIVEN TOP PRIORTY OVER ALL OTHER ASPECIS OF KING INVESTIGATION.

FBI HEADQUARTERS (FBIHQ) FILES HAVE BEEN PARTIALLY

PROCESSED IN RESPONSE TO A SIMILAR REQUEST, BUT TO INSURE

COMPLETENESS AND THOROUGHNESS, EACH RECIPIENT OFFICE FURNISH

FBIHQ TWO XEROX COPIES OF ANY COMMUNICATION MEETING ABOVE

CRITERIA. COPY SHOULD REACH FBIHQ BY JUNE 12, 1978.

ALL COPIES SHOULD BE CLEARLY LEGIBLE AND SHOULD BE SENT

REGISTERED MAIL, MAILED TO THE ATTENTION OF THE CONGRESSIONAL

INQUIRY UNII, RECORDS MANAGEMENI DIVISION, ANY QUESTIONS CAN

BE RESOLVED BY CONTACIING SUPERVISOR RICHARD C. BUSCHING,

EXTENTION 3685.

RECIPIENT OFFICES HAVING NO COMMUNICATION MEETING CRITERIA

ARE TO SO NOTIFY FBIHQ•

BI

D$ 85

NNNN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 29

---

## Page 30

6/8715

TO:

DIRECTOR, FBI (62-117290)

ATTENTION:

CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT,

RECORDS MANAGELIENT DIVISION

FROM: JACKSON (62-544) (C)

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) / F

Re Bureau letter to Albany, ET AL, 8/25/67,

captioned "Counterintelligence Program, Black Nationalist-

Hate Groups

8, captioned Count integene Progany,

Black nationalist Hate Groups Racial Intelligence

Bureau abetel to Albany, ET AL, 6/5/78, captioned as above.

7 of Jackson file 100-980.

matter as set forth in referenced commnications dated

8/25/67 and 3/4/68.

Review of above file was made for the period

3/25/67 through 12/31/68,

and only for information

concerning Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. and The southern

Christian Leadership Conference.

CONFIDENTIAL, MATERTAL, ATTACHED

2 - Bureau (Enc. 6)

L1 - Jackson

AJW/dgf

(3)

62-544-23

66

Searched

Serialized

Indexed

Filed

7348

DO NOT DESTROY FiLE

waits It

MW 65994 Docld: 32989768 Page 30

---

## Page 31

VZCZCHQU M65

UO AT BH JI KX LS ME MIN NO SL WF

DE HQ - 9035 1652149

MY EEEEE

U 142^25 JUN 78

FIG DIRECTOR FBI: (62-117290)

D FBI ATLANTA IMMEDIATE

FBI BIRMINGHAM IMMEDIATE

FBI JACKSON IMMEDiATE

FBI KNOXVILLE IMMEDIATE

FBI LUUISVILLE IMMEDIATE:

FBI ME/PHIS IMMEDIATE

FBI MIAMI IMMEDIATE

FBI NEW ORLEANS IMMEDIATE.

FBI ST• LOUIS IMMEDIATE

FBI WASHINGTON, FIELD OFFICE IMMED

IATE

BT

• UNCLAS EFTO

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTER ON ASSASSINATION

(HECA)

MOCA, BY LEITÈR DATED JUNE 12, 1978, iQUESTED THAI THE

FIELD OFFICE PILES ON THE SOUTHERN STATES. INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL

FOR THE PENIOD 1956-1978 FRO: ATLANTA, BIRMINGHAM, JACKSON,

SEARCHED

_ INDEXED

•SERIALIZE OT OA. FILED

Biked 6/18/18

00!

Burea

#

4

Re

JUN 1 1 1978

FBI-JACKSON

U ai

to

2-544-25

, NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 31

---

## Page 32

PAGE TWO DE HQ 9085 UNCLAS E FT O

KNOXVILLE, LOUISVILLE, MEMPHIS, MIAMI, NEW ORLEANS, ST: LOUIS,

AiVD

WASHINGION FIRLD OFFICE, BE PROVIDED ON A PRIORITY BASIS.

RECEIVING OFFICES ARE REQUESTED TO SEARCH FOR ANY FILES

OR REFERENCES ON INE SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL FOR THE

PERIUD 1956-1978. ANY MATERIAL LOCATED. OU THIS SUBJECT SHOULD

RE DUPLICATED AND ONE COPY FURISHED TU FBI HEADQUARTERS;

ATTENTIUI: CONGRESSIONAL. INQUIRY. UNIT, RECONDS HAINAGE INT

DIVISLON, BY GLUSE OF BUSINESS JUNE 19,

1978.

BT

0055

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 32

---

## Page 33

VZCZCHQ0 085

00 AT BA UN KX LS NE OM NO SL. WF

DE HQ: 0085 1952149

SY LEEEE

112026 JUN 78

FM DIRECTOR FBI (60-117294)

O FBI ATLANTA IMEDIATE

FBI BERMINGHAM IMMEDIATE

FBI JACKSON IOMEDIATE

F8I KNOXVILLE IMEDIATE

FSI LOUISVILLE IMMEDIATE

FBI MEMPHIS IMMEDIATE

FBI MIAMI IMMEDIATE

FBI ACU. ORLEANS, INMEDIATE

FBI ST. LOUIS INMEDIATE

FBI VASKINGION FIELD OFFICE IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS EFTO

hOUSe SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSIN

10NS. (HSCA.)

MSCA, BY LETTER DATED JUNE 12, 1976, REQUESIED THAT THE

FIELD CFFICE FILES ON THE SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL

FOR INE PERIOD 1956-1978 FROM ATLANTAS BIRMINGHAM,

JACKSON

12-544-25

SEARCHED -

INDEXED OVAN

SERIALIZED ORAGILED.

JUN 1 4 1978

FBI-JACKSON

12123

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 33

---

## Page 34

PAGE IWO DE NO 0085 UNCLAS EFT O

KNOXVILLE, LOUISVILLE, MEMPHIS, MIAMI, NEW ORLEANS , SI . LOUIS,

AND WASHINGION FIELD OFFICE, BE PROVIDED OU A PRIORITY BASIS.

RECEIVING OFFICES ARE REQUESIED TO SEARCH FOR ANY FILES

Oh REFERENCES ON THE SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL FOR THE

PERIOD 1956-1978. ANY MATERIAL LOCATED. ON THIS SUBJECT SMOULD

BE DUPLICATED AND ONE COPY FURNISHED TO FBI HEADQUARTERS,

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT , RECORDS MANAGEMETT

DIVISION, BY CLOSE OF DUSINESS dUNE 19,

1978.

BT

• 0GS5

WWWN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 34

---

## Page 35

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

•X Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

[.] Immediate

Priority

Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

* OKAXEX UNCLAS

Date

6/19/78

EM: JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) PRIORITY

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RMD

BT

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) . BUDED:

JUNE 19, 1978.

RE FBIQ TELETYPE, JUNE 14, 1978, CAPTIONED AS ABOVE, TO

SELECTED FIELD OFFICES.

REFERENCED TELETYPE REQUESTED INFORMATION CONCERNING

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

A REVIEW OF ELSUR AND GENERAL INDICES, JACKSON OFFICE,

HAS FAILED TO REVEAL FILES AND/OR REFERENCES UNDER THE NAME

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

FOR FBIHQ INFORMATION, ABOVE SEARCH REVEALED SEVERAL

REFERENCES CONCERNING "SOUTHERN STATES UNDERGROUND NEWSPAPER

PRESS CONFERENCE"

• "SOUTHERN STATES TELEPHONE INDUSTRY

62-544-0

#- Jackson (62-544)

JAW/ va.

(1) 70

Searched

Serialized

Indexed OBL

Waits

OKH

26

Transmitted

002

(Number)

21/17

(Time)

Per

Approved: -

K/243

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 35

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 36

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

[X Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

X] Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

0 TOP SECRET

O SECRET

I CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

OKAARX UNCLAS

Date 6/19/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) PRIORITY

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RMD

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) . BUDED:

JUNE 19, 1978.

RE FBIHQ TELETYPE, JUNE 14, 1978, CAPTIONED AS ABOVE, TO

SELECTED FIELD OFFICES.

REFERENCED TELETYPE REQUESTED INFORMATION CONCERNING

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

A REVIEW OF ELSUR AND GENERAL INDICES, JACKSON OFFICE,

HAS FAILED TO REVEAL FILES AND/OR REFERENCES UNDER THE NAME

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

FOR FBIHQ INFORMATION, ABOVE SEARCH REVEALED SEVERAL

REFERENCES CONCERNING "SOUTHERN STATES UNDERGROUND NEWSPAPER

OKH

PRESS CONFERENCE". "SOUTHERN STATES TELEPHONE INDUSTRY

26

62-544-018

I - Jackson (62-544)

JAW/val

(1)7*1

Searched

Serialized.

Indexed.

Filed.

Waite.

Transmitted

002

(Number)

2//17

(Time)

Per

Approved:

K/343

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 36

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 37

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

_ Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

EFTO

• CLEAR

Date

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS

LEADERS DELEGATION" AND "SOUTHERN STATES FOREST PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY LEADERS TOUR"; HOWEVER, FROM INFORMATION AVAILABLE AT

THIS TIME, THERE IS NO INDICATION SAID REFERENCES ARE IDENTICAL

TO "SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

BT

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 37

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 38

EnT 494594-702-194

JN0DD2 1692110Z

PP HQ

DE JW

P 192111Z JUN 78

M JACKSON

(62-544)

(P)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) PRIORITY

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RMD

BI

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECI COMMITTEE ON ASSASSI NATIONS (HSCA). BUDED.:

JUNE 19, 1978.

RE FBIHQ TELETYPE, JUNE 14, 1978, CAPTIONED AS ABOVE, TO

SELECTED FIELD OFFICES.

REFERENCED TELETYPE REQUESTED INFORMATION CONCERNING

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

A REVIEW OF ELSUR AND GENERAL INDICES, JACKSON OFFICE,

HAS FAILED TO REVEAL FILES AND/OR REFERENCES UNDER THE NAME

"SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

FOR FBIHQ INFORMATION, ABOVE SEARCH REVEALED SEVERAL

REFERENCES CONCERNING "SOUTHERN STATES UNDERGROUND NEWSPAPER

PRESS CONFERENCE".

"SOUTHERN STATES TELEPHONE INDUSTRY

62-544-1

8026

Searched

Serialized

Indexed

Filed

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 38

---

## Page 39

-

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS

LEADERS DELEGATION" AND "SOUTHERN STATES FOREST PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY LEADERS TOUR"; HOWEVER, FROM INFORMATION AVAILABLE AT

THIS TIME, THERE IS NO INDICATION SAID REFERENCES ARE IDENTICAL

TO "SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL".

BT

1702018HQ 1

ANW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 39

---

## Page 40

Indices Search Slip

FD-160 (Rev. 3-23-71)

TO: (OlIEF CLEAK

Date

(THE) SOUTHERN STATES INDUSTRIAL COUNTL

6/14/28

Social Security Account #

Address

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

Sex

@Male

[Female

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

Maln Criminal Case Files Only

Restrict to Locality of

Criminal References Only

1256 - 1978

_Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

J Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serial Number

Remarks

Snithen States Undegrand Newsper Pren Cprence 100-1675

Soutter Statess Telephone Industry

Lesders Defe trim 105-68-38

serither Stater Forest Products Industr Leader Bar 100-0-112

Requested by

Waits

Searcho suri liées

Squad

6-15-2k

(date)

Revlewed by

(date)

Identical

Ni - Not identical

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 40

File Review Symbols

U ~ Not identitable

- Unavailable reference #G.P.O. 1972-471-961

Extension

70

File No.

62-54x-0027

3.10

---

## Page 41

VZCZCHQ0122

RR JN

DE. HQ 01222101035

ZNR UUUUU

R 282030Z JUL 78

FM DIRECTOR FBI (62-117290)

TO FBI JACKSON (62-544) ROUTINE

BT

UNCLAS

1978.

HOUSE SELECI COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA); BUDED AUGUST 4,

REBUTEL TO JACKSON, MAY 24, 1978, JACKSON TELETYPE TO

BUREAU, MAY 26, 1978.

HSC A IN ITS CONTINUING INVESTIGATION INTO THE ASSASSINA-

TIONS OF JOHN F. KENNEDY AND MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., REQUESTED

THAT THE THREE INFORMANIS REFERRED TO IN THE FOLLOWING SERIALS

BE CONTACIED AND REQUESTED TO SUBMIT TO INTERVIEW BY THE COM-

MITTEE:

SERIAL 1: BUFILE 157-1654-230. PAGE 18, PARAGRAPH EO

SERIAL 2: BUFILE 157-1654-23, PAGE 21, PARAGRAPH 3.

SERIAL 3: BUFILE 157-1654-235, PAGE 25, PARAGRAPH 4•

62-544-28

INDEXED.

SERIAL D SA

_ FILED _

JUL

8U 1978

•KSON

harple.

antised

NW 65994. Docld:32989768 Page 41

Waita

---

## Page 42

SF E C• A L

GP O

909-767

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 42

---

## Page 43

PAGE IWO DE HQ D122 UNCLAS

• THE HSCA ALSO REQUESTED THAT THE BUREAU SOLICIT THESE

INFORMANIS TO EXECUTE A WAIVER OF RELEASE OF ALL THEIR HEAD-

QUARTERS AND FIELD OFFICE FILES.

THE

ABOVE SERIALS ARE LOCATED IN JACKSON REPORT OF SA

THOMAS E. BURG, DATED AUGUSI 9, 1958; AND CAPTIONED. "SAM

HOLLOWAY BOWERS, JR., AKA, RM-KLAN."' THE JACKSON FILE. NUMBER

IS JN 157-18.

INFORMATION IN SERIAL REQUEST I WAS FURNISHED BY UN 184-Rg

BUFILE 17-733, (JACKSON FILE 170-279

OPERATED BETWEEN NOVENBER,

1965, AND MARCH, 1973. -

INFOR MATION IN SERIAL REQUESTS 2 AND 3 WAS FURNISHED BY

JI 349-R (PROB), BUFILE 170-1565, JACKSON FILE 178-459, OPERATED

BETWEEN AUGUST, 1967 AND APRIL, 1973.

JN 340-R PER. REFERENCED JACKSON COMMUNICATION HAS ALREADY

DECLINED TO BE INTERVIEWED BY HSCA•

FBINQ FILES CONTAIN NO INFORMATION REGARDING CURRENT WHERE-

ABOUTS OF FORMER JN 184-R. •

JACKSON LOCATE AND INTERVIEW FORMER UN 184-R

TO DETERMINE

IF HE HAS ANY OBJECTION IO MIS IDENTITY BEING DISCLOSED IO THE

HSCA AND IF HE WOULD BE WILLING TO BE INTERVIEWED BY A REPRE-

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 43

---

## Page 44

PAGE THREE DE HQ D122 UNCLAS

SENTATIVE OF THE HSCA. INFORMANI SHOULD BE TOLD THAI IF HE

AGREES TO DISCLOSURE, HE HAS NO GUARANTEES FROM IHE FBI OR THE

HSCA OF IMMUNITY OR CONFIDENTIALITY, THAI THE FBI IS NOT RESPON-

•SIBLE FOR WHAI RESULTING ACTION THE MSCA MAY TAKE; AND THAI TO

DATE THE FBI HAS NOT ADVISED THE HSCA OF HIS FORMER INFORMANT

• STATUS, AND THAT THE ASCA MAY HAVE INFORMANT'S IDENTITY BASED •

ON A REVIEW OF THE FBI'S ASSASSINATION INESTIGATION FILE.

IF INFORMANT IS AGREEABLE TO DISCLOSURE, A WITNESSED,

SIGNED WAIVER SHOULD BE OBTAINED, WORDED SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE

FBI TO RELEASE ANY AND ALL FILES (FBI AND FIELD OFFICE! CON-

CERNING HIMSELF TO IHE HSCA, INCLUDING THOSE RECORDS PERTAINING

TO ANY CONFIDENIIAL RELATIONSHIP THEY MAY HAVE HAD WITH THE FBI.

IF INFORMANT DESIRES HIS IDENTITY NOI BE DISCLOSED, HE

SHOULD BE TOLD THAT THE FBI WILL DO ALL IN ITS POWER TO PROTECT

HIS IDENTITY; HOWEVER, HIS FILE COULD BE SUBJECT IO CONGRES-

SIONAL SUBPOENA •

JACKSON SUTEL TO FBIHQ, CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS

MANAGEMENI DIVISION, RESULIS OF CONTACI WITH INFORMANI AND

FORWARD WAIVER, IF OBTAINED, BY SEPARATE COMMUNICATION. IF

INFORMANI HAS RELOCATED, SET FORIH APPROPRIATE LEADS TO EFFECI

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 44

---

## Page 45

PAGE FOUR DE HQ

INTERVIEW.

BI

D 122

D122 UNCLAS

NNNN2011040

2011040Z JN 2•

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 • Page 45

---

## Page 46

VZCZ0HQ0122

RR IN

DE-HQ. 0122 2101235

ZAR UUUUU

R 2320302. JUl. 78

FU DIRECTOR F2I (62-117293)

TO FBI JACKSON (62-544) - ROUTINE

B1

UNCLAS

1978.

HOUSE SELECT -COMMITIEE ON ASSASSINATIOIS (HSCA); BUDED AUGUST 4,

REBUTEL TO JACKSON, MAY 244 1978, JAGISON TELETYPE TO

BUREAU, MAY 26, 1978.

HSC A IN ITS CONTINUING INVESTIGATION INTO THE ASSASSINA-

TIONS OF JOHN FO KENNEDY AND MARTIN LUTHER KING,. JRa, REQUESIED

THAT THE THREE INFORMANIS REFERRED TO IN THE FOLLOWING SERIALS

BE CONTACTED. ANO REQUESTED TO SUBMIT TO INTERVIEN BY THE COM

MITICE.

SERIAL LE BUFILE 157-1654-23, PAGE 189 PARAGRAPH 20

SERIAL 2: BUFILE 157-1654-23, PAGE Z1, PARAGRAPH 3.

•SERIAL 3: BUFILE 157-1654-23, PAGE 25, PARAGRAPH 16

62-544-28

i SEARCHED

JUL 2G 1978

-JiN

* NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 46

---

## Page 47

15731

guse

• VZOZONGOI22

0122 2131935

Zah UbbJU

& 2030302. JUL. 78

IN DIRECTOR FEI (62-117293)

TO FBI JACKSON

(63-544) ROUTINE

ST

UNCLAS

NOISE SELECI COMMITTLE ON ASSASSINAIIONE CISCADE BUDED QUEUST 4,

1970.

REBUILL IO JACKSOL, MAY 24y 1078, JACUZON TELETYPE TO

BUTCAU, LAY 2G, 19700

HSC A IN ITS CONTINUING INVESTIGATION INTO INE ASSASSINA-

TIORS OF JOHS FO KENNEDY AND MANTIN LUTHER MIDG, diNg SECUESTED

THAI THE THSEE INFORNATTS REFITED TO IN THE FOLLOGANG SENIALS

DE COMPACTED AND RECUESTED TO SUEMIT ID ILIENVIOU BY THE CON

MITTEE:

SERIAL. LE BUFILE

157-1654-25; PAGE 104 РАБЛОВАРК 2o

SERIAL & BUFILE 157-1654-23, PAGE 21, PARROROPE 56

SEMIAL 3E DUFILE 157-1654-25, PAGE 25, РАБДОБАРН 46

62-544-28

JUL ?: 1978

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 47

arisen

---

## Page 48

• PAGE FOUR DE NE 2132 UNCLAS

INTERVIEU.

ĐT

0126

NWN02011643

20112402 ON 29

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 48

---

## Page 49

• PAGE TWO DE HQ 5122 UNCLAS

THE ASCA ALSO ARQUESTED THAT THE BUREAD SOLICIT INESE

INFORHARIS TO EXECUTE A EAVEN OF RELEASE OF ALL THEIR HE4D-

QUARTERS ALD FIELD OFFICE FILESS

IHE ABOVE DENIALE ARE LOCATIO IN JACRSOS ASPORT OF SA

TOMAS E. BURG, DAIRO AUGUST 9, I9G5, ALD CAPTIONEE "SAM

HOLLOWAY BOULES, die, Ail, RO-KLAN," THE JACISON FILE QUEEN

13 JR 157-15+

INFONNATION IS SENIAL RECUSST 1 VAS FURNISHED BY Ji LOA-Ti,

BUFILE 17-733, JACKSON FILE 176-270, OPENTED BETJEEN LOVENDE,

1S65, AID HAROL, 1073.

JUFOR MATION ID SENIAL REQUESTS D AND & WAS FURNIGNED &Y

JA 340-R (PRODS, BUFULE 170-1505, JACKSON FILE 175-459, OPERAZED

BETUEEN AUGUSS, 1907 AND AFFIL, 19730

JW 340-R PE: REFERENCED JACKSO: CONNUNICATICI HAS ALREADY

DECLINED TO BE ISTENVIEVED BY KEGAR

VINO FILES CONTAIN NO INFORIATION MEGARDII CURRENT WHERE-

ABOUTS OF FORMER AR 184-50

JACKSON LOCATE ALD INTERVIEU FORUCE JO 184-Ü 10 DETERIONE

IF HE HAS ARY OBJECIION IO LIS IDENTITY BELLE DISCLOSED TO THE

NSCA AND IF HE WOULD BE WILLING TO DE I NERVIEVED BY A REPTE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 49

---

## Page 50

• PAGE INTED DE HE 3I82 UNGLAS

SENTATIVE OF THE ASCA• INFOSUANT SHOULD BE IOLD IHAT IF 1B

AGREES TO DISCLOSURE, HE HAS NO GUARAVIESS FROM THE FBI ON THE

ASCA OF INDUCITY OR COGFICITINLITY, THAT INE FOI IS NOI RESPOi

SIBLE FOR WHAT RESULTING ACTIO. TNE USCA MAY TARES AND THAI 10

DATE THE FLI HAD NOT ADVISED INE HOCA OF JIS FOLGER IDFORUALT

STATUS, AND THAT THE ISCA MAY HAVE INTONAT'S IDENTITY DOGEU

ON A REVIES OF THE FOI'S AOSAASINAIION INEOTICAIIOI FILE.

IF INFORMANE IS AGECEADLE 10 DISCLOSINE, A WITNESSED,

SIGNED WAIVE: SHOULD DE ORTAINED, MOLDEU SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE

VI TO RELEASE ARY AND ALL FILRO CESI AND FIELD OFFICE) COI

CONLONG HINSELF TO THE NSCAY INCLUDING TNOSE NECORDS PETTAININO

TO ASY COLFIDERTIAL CELAIIONSHIF THEY MAY HAVE HAD WITH THE FEIS

IF INFORMALI DESINES HIS IDANITY DOT BE DISCLOSED, HE

COULD BE TOLD THAT THE FBI WILL DO ALL IG ITS POWEL TO PROTECT

HIS IDENITY, HOTEVER, HIS FILE COULO BE SUBJECT TO GONGRE

SIONAL DUBPORA+

JACKOON SUTEL TO FBIHO, CONGIESSIOVL INCUIRY UNIT, ACCORDS

BA ARGUCHI DIVISION, RESULTS OF CONTACT MITH INPOURNS AND

FORADD WAIVER, IF CETAILO, LY SEPARATE COMMUNICATIO. IF

INFORMART HAS RELOCATED, SET FORTH APPROPYIATE LEROG TO LETECT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 50

---

## Page 51

1;

JNO 003 214 0715Z

RR HQ

DE JN

R 01 2300 AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR FBI (62-117290) ROUTINE

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEVENT DIVISION

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA); BUDED :

AUGUST 4, 1978.

RE DIRECTOR TELETYPE JULY 28, 1978, CAPTIONED AS ABOVE.

REVIEW OF DEATH RECORDS, STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, AUGUST 1, 1978,

REFLECTS FORMER UN NOW NOW DECEASED.

BT

62-514-29

Searched

Serialized.

Indexed

Filed

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 51

---

## Page 52

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

[X Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[ Priority

[y Routine

003

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

0 CONFIDENTIAL

ПЕЕТО

E CLEAR

Date

8-1-78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR FBI (62-117290) ROUTINE

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEMENT DIVISION

BT

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) ; BUDED:

AUGUSI 4, 1978.

RE DIRECTOR TELETYPE JULY 28, 1978, CAPTIONED AS ABOVE.

REVIEW OF DEATH RECORDS, STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, AUGUST 1, 1978,

REFLECTS FORMER JN184-R NOW DECEASED.

BT

1) - Jackson

JAW/ kon

62544-29

Searched.

Serialized_

Indexed

Filed

Approved: K/ 74B

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 52

Transmitted

011662 PerS

(Time)

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 53

TO

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

Memorandum

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

: SAC, JACKSON

DATE: 8/18/78

FROM :

SUBJECT:

SPC, KELLY R. HUGHES

BILL WILSON,

INFO CONCERNING

MR. WILLIAM D. GLADEN, RT. 1, BOX 205H3, OCEANS

SPRINGS

, MISS. PH #075-3510, telephonically contacted

this office at 1:15 A.M. instant date to furnish the

following info:

On 8/17/78 at 11:45 P.M. he was telephonically

contacted by BILL WILSON,. W/M, 46 years of age, an

employee of his, who requested to meet with he

and his

MR. GLADEN met with WILSON at a card and gift

shop owned by him in Oceans Springs, Ms.

MR. WILSON told MR. & MRS. GLADEN about how he

killed MARTIN LUTHER KING.

WILSON went into one hour

of details of the plan to kill KING.

MR. GLADEN advised that he rented part of his

shop to WILSON in July 1978 to operate a watch repair

service. WILSON told the GLADEN'S he was sorry for the

expense he caused them in setting up his watch repair

business but he had to get this off his chest. He

stated that. the sheriff from Memphis, Tenn. was the

only person he would surrender to and that this Memphis

Tenn, sheriff was to meet him at the Holiday Inn, Biloxi,

Miss. morning of 8/18/78.

MR. GLADEN said WILSON is a very intelligent man

and although he was drinking at time of meeting he thinks

WILSON is serious about the murder of KING.

KRH

62-544-30

Ditto

"i'?

WAITE

Buy U.S. Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Savings Plan

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 53

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 54

TO

:

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

Memorandum

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

SAC, JACKSON

DATE: 8/18/78

FROM :

SUBJECT:

SPC, KELLY R. HUGHES

BILL WILSON,

INFO •CONCERNING

MR. WILLIAM D. GLADEN, RT. 1, BOX 205H3, OCEANS

SPRINGS, MISS. PH #875-3518, telephonically contacted

this office at 1:15 A.M. instant date to furnish the

following info:

On 8/17/78 at 11:45 P.M. he was telephonically

contactea by BILL WILSON,. W/M, 46

years of age, an

employee of his, who requested to meet with he and his

wife. MR. GLADEN met with WILSON

at a card and gift

shop owned by him in Oceans Springs, Ms.

MR. WILSON told MR. & MRS. GLADEN about how he

killed MARTIN LUTHER KING. WILSON went into one hour

of details of the plan to kill KING.

MR. GLADEN advised, that he rented part of his

shop to WILSON in July 1978 to operate a watch repair

service.

WILSON told the GLADEN'S he was sorry for the

expense he caused them in setting up his watch repair

business but he had to get this off his chest. He

stated that. the sheriff from Memphis, Tenn. was the

only person he would surrender to and that this Memphis,

Tenn, sheriff was to meet him at the Holiday Inn, Biloxi,

Miss. morning of 8/18/78.

MR. GLADEN said WILSON • is a very intelligent man

and

although he was drinking at time of meeting he thinks

WILSON is serious about the murder of KING.

KRH

62-544-30

NW 6599%* Docld:329897884J-4ge Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Savings Plan

FEl/DOS

---

## Page 55

FD,* (Rev. 3-24-77)

• TRANSMIT VIA:

[& Teletype

Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

[X] Immediate

I Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

O CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

[ CLEAR

8-18-78

Date

FM JACKSON (62-544)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) IMMEDIATE

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEMENT

DIVISION

MEMPHIS IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) .

RE JACKSON TELEPHONE CALL TO FBI HQ, AUGUST 18, 1978.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, 1:15 A.M., MR. WILLIAM

• GLADEN,

ROUTE

1, POST OFFICE BOX 205H3, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI,

TELEPHONE NUMBER 875-3518, TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED

THE JACKSON FBI OFFICE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING

INFORMATION:

ON AUGUST 17, 1978, 11:45 P.M., GLADEN WAS TELEPHONICAILY

CONTACTED BY BILL WILSON, WHITE MALE, 46 YEARS OF AGE,

EMPLOYEE OF GLADEN, WHO REQUESTED TO MEET WITH GLADEN

31

62-544-

Searched

- Jackson

AW/ kbn

(1)

Waits

Approved: -

15/748

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 55

Transmitted

00/

(Number)

1636 ₴

(Time)

Per

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 56

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

• TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

I SECRET

O CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

• CLEAR

Date

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS

AND WIFE.

GLADEN AND WIFE MET WILSON AT A CARD AND GIFT

SHOP OWNED BY GLADEN IN OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI.

WILSON ADVISED MR. AND MRS. GLADEN ABOUT HOW HE

KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING. FOR AN HOUR WILSON PROVIDED

DETAILS CONCERNING THE PLAN TO KILL KING.

GLADEN ADVISED THAT HE RENTED PART OF HIS SHOP TO

WILSON IN JULY, 1978, TO OPERATE A WATCH REPAIR SERVICE.

WILSON TOLD THE GLADENS HE WAS SORRY FOR THE EXPENSES

HE CAUSED THEM IN SETTING UP HIS WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS

BUT HE HAD TO GET THIS OFF OF HIS CHEST. HE STATED

THAT THE SHERIFE FROM MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, WAS THE ONLY

PERSON HE WOULD SURRENDER TO AND THAT MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE, SHERIFF WAS TO MEET HIM AT THE HOLIDAY INN,

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI, MORNING OF AUGUSI 18, 1978.

GLADEN ADVISED THAT WILSON IS A VERY INTELLIGENT

MAN AND ALTHOUGH HE WAS DRINKING AT THE TIME THE MEETING

TOOK PLACE, HE THINKS WILSON IS SERIOUS ABOUT THE MURDER

OF KING.

LHM FOLLOWS.

BASED ON DESCRIPTIVE DATA AVAILABLE, THE NAME BILL

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 56

Transmitted Number)

Per

(Time)

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 57

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

* TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

O CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

O CLEAR

Date

PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS

WILSON NOT IDENTIFIABLE THROUGH JACKSON OFFICE INDICES.

BT

Approved: -

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 57

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 58

' ,9 001

23

650Z

00 HQ

DE

1386362 AUG 18

JNO D01 2301650Z

- 00 HQ

DE JN

CO 188636Z AUG 78

• FM JACKSON (62-544)

TO DIRECTOR (62-117290) IMMEDIATE

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, RECORDS MANAGEMENT

DIVISION

MEMPHIS IMMEDIATE

• BT

UNCLAS:

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA) .

RE JACKSO i TELEPHONE CALL TO FBI HQ, AUGUSI 19, 1978.

•ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, 1:15 A.Mo, MR. WILLIAi1

GLADEN,

ROUTE 1, POST OFFICE BOX 205H3, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI,

TELEPHONE NUMBER 875-3518, TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED

THE JACKSON FBI OFFICE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING

INFORMATION:

ON AUGUSI 17, 1978, 11:45 P.M., GLADEN WAS TELEPHONICALLY

3)

CONTACTED BY BILL WILSON, WHITE MALE, 46. YEARS OF AGE, 62-544-61

EMPLOYEE OF GLADEN, WHO REQUESTED TO MEET WITH GLAD dohe OURS

Indexed

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 58

---

## Page 59

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS

AND WIFE. GLADEN AND WIFE MET WILSON AT A CARD AND GIFI

SHOP OWNED BY GLADEN IN OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI.

WILSON ADVISED MR. AND MRS. GLADEN ABOUT HOW HE

KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING. FOR AN HOUR WILSON PROVIDED

DETAILS CONCERNING THE PLAN TO KILL KING.

GLADEN ADVISED THAT HE RENTED PART OF HIS SHOP 10

WILSON IN JULY, 1978, TO OPERATE A WAICH REPAIR SERVICE:

WILSON TOLD THE GLADENS HE WAS SORRY FOR THE EXPENSES

HE CAUSED THEM IN SETTING UP HIS WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS

BUT'HE HAD TO GET THIS OFF OF HIS CHESI. HE STATED

THAT THE SHERIFF FROM MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, WAS THE ONLY

PERSON HE WOULD SURRENDER TO AND THAI MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE, SHERIFF WAS TO MEET HIM AI THE HOLIDAY INiU,

BILOXI, MISSISSIP PI, MORNING OF AUGUSI 18, 1978.

GLADEN ADVISED THAT WILSON IS A VERY INTELLIGENT

MAN AND ALTHOUGH HE WAS DRINKING AT THE TIME THE MEETING

TOOK PLACE, HE THINKS WILSON IS SERIOUS ABOUT THE MURDER

OF KING.

LHM FOLLOWS.

BASED ON DESCRIPIIVE DATA AVAILABLE, THE NAME BILL

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 59

---

## Page 60

PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS

WILSON NOT IDENTIFIABLE THROUGH JACKSON OFFICE INDICES.

BI

2301646Z N2

1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 60

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## Page 61

ME00D4 2301945Z

00 HI JN SA

DE ME:

0 181945Z AUG 78

PM MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB. M) (P) •

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

SAN ANTONIO IMMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS E FIO

ATIN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT; ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING..

MUR KIN.

ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, GENE BARKSDALE, SHERIFF, SHELBY COUNTY

SHERIFF'S OFFICE, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, FURNISHED FOLLOWING:

AI APPROXIMATELY 9:15 PM ON AUGUSI 17, 1978, AN INDIVIDUAL

WHO IDENIIFIED HIMSELF AS BURGESS AUDIE WILSO

TELEPHO NI CALLY

CONTACTED SHERIFF BARKSDALE AT THE SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF'S

OFFICE SUB-STATION, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. WILSON FURNISHED SHERIFF

BARKSDALE BACKGROUND INFORMATION REGARDING BARKSDALE AND INFOR-

MATION REGARDING PERSONS KNOWN TO BARKSDALE AS MEMBERS OR FORMER

MEMBERS OF'THE TENNESSEE AIR, NATIONAL, GUARD UNII AI MEMPHIS,

IN WHICH BARKSDALE HAS BEEN ACTIVE FOR 26 YEARS.

SEARCHED

SERIAL OKa

PiG 1? 1978

Bitten n

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 61

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## Page 62

PAGE IWO ME 44-1987 SUB M UNCLAS E F I O

INFORMATION REGARDING PLACES AND IRIPS HE HAD MADE WITH BARKSDALE

WHICH INDICATED THAT WILSON WAS ALSO A MEMBER OF THE TENNESSEE

AIR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT AT MEMPHIS.

WILSON INFORMED BARKSDALE HE HAD COMMITTED A FAMOUS CRIME-

THAT HE WAS THE MAN WHO KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

HE RELATED THAT HE WAS THE TRIGGER MAN AND WAS STANDING ABOUT 65

FEET FROM DR. KING IN A POSITION BELOW THE BALCONY WHERE DR. KING

WAS SIANDING. ABOUT THREE DAYS PRIOR TO THE DEATH OF DR. KING

WILSON'S DAUGHTER, WHOSE IDENTITY HE DECLINED TO FURNISH, DROVE

A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE. HE WOULD FURNISH NO INFORMATION REGARDING THE

STORAGE OR USE OF THIS WHITE MUSTANG AFTER THE MUSTANG REACHED

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. HE DECLINED IO FURNISH ANY INFORMATION

REGARDING THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND THE EVENIS LEADING UP TO THE

KILLING OF DR. KING OTHER THAN NOTED ABOVE, BUI STATED THAT

INFORMATION FURNISHED BY JAMES EARL RAY IS ACCURATE.

WILSON REQUESTED THAI SHERIFF BARKSDALE MEET HIM AT THE

HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISSISSIPPI, AT 9: 30 AM, AUGUSI 28,

1978. BARKSDALE WAS INSTRUCIED TO ENTER THE DINING ROOM AT THE

KOLIDAY INN WITHOUT À COAT AND THAT WILSON WOULD SURRENDER TO

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 62

---

## Page 63

PAGE THREE ME 44-1987-SUBME FIO

HIM THERE: HE INSISTED THAT BARKSDALE BE ALONE, THAT HE NOT

BE MISTREATED AFTER HE SURRENDERED AND THAT BARKSDALE NOT

INFORM THE FBI, AND IF BETRAYED, HE WOULD NOT SURRENDER.

• WILSON DECLINED TO FURNISH BARKSDALE HIS LOCATION, BUT BARKSDALE

BELIEVED THAI IT WAS A LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE CALL.

AI APPROXIMAIELY 11:45 PM, WILSON AGAIN TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACIED BARKSDALE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

HE HAD A CLEAR CONSCIENCE, HAD IALKED WITH HIS FAMILY,

AND WAS READY TO CONFESS IO SHERIFF BARKSDALE ALONE. HE AGAIN

REQUESIED SHERIFF BARKSDALE TO MEET HIM AT THE HOLIDAY INN IN

GULFPORI, MISSISSIPPI, AI 9:30 AM, AUGUSI 18, 1978 IN THE

DINING ROOM WITHOUT HIS COAT ON AND ALONE. SHERIFF BARKSDALE

POINTED OUT TO HIM THAI ME, BARKSDALE, WOULD HAVE

DIFFICULTY

MEETING HIM AT GULFPORI AT THE APPOINTED TIME AND REQUESTED

THAT THEY ARRANGE A MEETING AT JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI. WILSON

COUNTERED BY INFORMING BARKSDALE THAT BARKSDALE WAS A PILOT

AND HAD ACCESS TO AIRCRAFT AND THAT HE COULD OBTAIN A PLANE AND

REACH GULFPORI, MISSISSIPPI IN A RELATIVELY SHORT PERIOD OF

TIME. WILSON ABSOLUTELY DECLINED TO MEET WITH BARKSDALE IN

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI. DURING THIS CONERSATION, WILSON INFORMED

BARKSDALE THAT HE WAS THEN IN NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA, AID THAT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 63

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## Page 64

PAGE FOUR ME 44-1987-SUBMEFTO

HE COULD REACH GULFPORI, MISSISSIPPI IN ABOUI ONE AND ONE HALF

HOURS.

'AI APPROXIMATELY 9:45 AI, AUGUSI 18, 1978, REVEREND NOEL

FANVON, PASTOR, ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, TELEPHONE NUMBER 875-9654, TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED

SHERIFF BARKSDALE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

REVEREND FANNON WAS. IN A CAFE IN OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI

ON THE, MORNING OF AUGUSI 18, 1978, HAVING BREAKFASI. BURGESS

WILSON APPROACHED HIM AND RELATED INFORMATION INDICATING HE,

WILSON, HAD. SHOT DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., IN MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE IN

, APRIL OF 1968.

HE INFORMED REVEREND FANNON THAT

HE WAS TO MEET SHERIFF BARKSDALE AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI,

MISSISSIPPI, AND REQUESTED REVEREND FANNON TO FOLLOW HIM TO THE

HOLIDAY INN.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 64

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## Page 65

PAGE FIVE ME 44-1987-SUB ME F TO

WILSON ALSO TALKED WITH SHERIFF BARKSDALE ON. THIS OCCASION

AND ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING THE FAILURE OF SHERIFF BARKSDALE

TO MEET WITH HIM AT 9:3D AM ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, AS ME HAD

PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED. SHERIFF BARKSDALE INFORMED WILSON THAT HE :

HAD BEEN ON DUTY ALL NIGHT IN CONNECTION WITH THE STRIKE

INVOLVING THE MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARINENI, AND HAD, NOT BEEN ABLE

TO ARRANGE MATTERS SO THAT HE COULD MEET WITH HIM. B'ARKSDALE

INFORMED WILSON IHAT HE WOULD AITEMPI TO ARRANGE A MEETING

WITH HIM. WILSON INFORMED BARKSDALE THAT HE WOULD STAY IN THE

VICINITY OF THE HOLIDAY INV, GULFPORI, AID WOULD CONTACI THE

DESK'CLERK AI THE HOLIDAY INN PERIODICALLY IN ORDER FOR

BARKSDALE TO ARRANGE TO MEET WITH HIM.. WILSON FURNISHED

BARKSDALE TELEPHONE NUMBER 601-864-4310 AS THE TELEPHONE NUMBER

OF A HOLIDAY INN HE WOULD PERIODICALLY CONTACT.

BARKSDALE REPORTED THAT WILSON APPEAPED TO BE COHERENT

AND THIS INFORMATION WAS ALSO FURNISHED IO BARKSDALE BY REVEREND

FANINOW.

BARKSDALE FURNISHED INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THE BUREAU

OF IDENTIFICATION, SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, INDICATING

THAI BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, FBI NUMBER 879 421 E, WAS ARRESTED

AT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF"'S OFFICE ON MAY 14, 1964,

BY THE MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARIMENI ON MAY 26, 1964, AND BY THE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 65

---

## Page 66

PAGE SIX ME 1987-SUB ME FT O

SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE ON MAY 27, 1964 AND MARCH 24,

1965, WITH RESIDENCE AT 3612 COVINGTON PIKE, MEMPHIS. WILSON

WAS ARRESTED BY THE BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS AUTHORITIES ON JUNE 129

1972 FOR CONTEMPT OF COURT DRAWING OUT OF THE CHILD SUPPORT

QUESTIONED IN BEXAR COUNTY. AI THE TIME WILSON RESIDED AT 1505

WESI CANYON LAKE DRIVE, CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. HIS EMPLOYMENI

WAS SHOWIV AS A JEWELER.

THE FBI FINGERPRINI RECORD INDICATES THAT WILSON IS KNOWIN

AS BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

JR. HE IS A WHITE MALE BORN AUGUST 28,

1931, AI FULION, MISSISSIPPI, 5'10" TALL, 155 POUNDS, BROWN

EYES AND BROWN HAIR. WHEN ARRESTED IN MAY OF 1964, HE RESIDED

AI 3395 RUSKIN ROAD, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE.

DURING CONVERSATION WITH SHERIFF BARKSDALE, WILSON INDICATED

HE HAS A FATHER-IN-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN, WHO RESIDES AT 3995

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 66

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## Page 67

PAGE SEVEN ME 44-1987 SUBM E FIO

RUSKIN ROAD, MEMPHIS, TELEPHONE NUMBER 386-4628, AND THAT

HIS FATHER WAS FORMERLY PASTOR AI THE HOLLYWOOD BAPTISI CHURCH,

CHELSEA AND HOLLYWOOD AVENUES, MEMPHIS, AND AT THE CENTRAL

BAPTIST CHURCH, GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI.

ADMINISTRATIVE: RE MEMPHIS TELEPHONE CALLS TO BUREAU

SUPERVISOR DREW CLARK, AUGUSI 18, 1978. SUCOP

MEMPHIS INDICES AND FILES REVEAL BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, UR.,

WAS ELIMINATED AS A SUSPECI IN AN 87 MATTER INVOLVING THE

TRANSPORTATION OF JEWELRY IN 1973. AT THE TIME, IT

WAS DETERMINED HE HAD BEEN IN BUSINESS AS THE NORTH STAR DIAMOND

CIRCLE, VALLEY HILL MALL, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, FROM EARLY 1971

TO MIDDLE 1971.

JACKSON AT JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

, WILL CAUSE A REVIEW OF.

RECORDS AT LOGICAL POLICE AGENCIES REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

JR., FBI. NUMBER 879-421 E.

SAN ANTONIO AI BEXAR, TEXAS, WILL REVIEW APPROPRIAIE RECORDS

RE IDENTITY OF CHILDREN OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., NOTING HE

WAS BOOKED AI BEXAR COUNTY JAIL. JUNE 19, 1972, FOR CONTEMPI OF

COURT GROWING OUT OF CHILD SUPPORT QUESTION IN BEXAR COUNIY.

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 67

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## Page 68

NE0934 2301945Z

00 HI JW SA

DE ME

0 181945Z AUG 78

FH MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38661) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

SAN ANIONIO IMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTA CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 6988, JEH BUILDING.

MURKIN.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, GENE BAFKSDALE, SHERIFF, SHELBY COUNTY

SHERIFF'S OFFICE, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, FURNISHED FOLLOWING:

AI APPROXINATELY 9:15 PI ON AUGUST 17, 107S, AN IIDIVIDUAL

UHO IDENTIFIED HISELF AS BURGESS AUDIE WILSON TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACTED SKERIFF BARKSDALE AT THE SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF*S

OFFICE SUB-STATIONS MRIPHIS, TENNESSEE. WILSON FURNISHED SHERIFF

BARKSDALE BACKGROUND IUFORMATION REGARDING BARKSDALE AND INFOR-

NATION REGARDING PERSONS KNOUN TO BARKSDALE AS MEMBERS OR FORHER

MEMGERS OF THE TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL GUARD UMT AT

MENPHIS

62-544-32

IN WHICH BANKSDALE HAS BEEN ACTIVE FOR 26 YEARS• WILSON RELATED

alla 1.

1073

BU/S

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 68

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## Page 69

PAGE TUO ME 44-1987 SUB M UNCLAS E F I O

INFORMATION REGARDING PLACES AND TRIPS HE HAD MADE WITH BARKSDALE

WHICH INDICATED THAT VILSON WAS ALSO A HEMBER OF THE TENNESSEE

AIR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT AT MEMPHIS.

WILSON INFORMED BARKSDALE HE HAD COMMITTED A FAMOUS CRIME-

THAT HE VAS THE MAN WHO KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR:

HE RELATED THAT HE WAS THE TRIGGER MAN AND WAS STANDING ABOUT 65

FEET FROM DR. KING IN A POSITION BELOW THE BALCONY WHERE DR. KING

VAS STANDING• ABOUT THREE DAYS PRIOR TO THE DEATH OF DR KING

WILSON'S DAUGHTER, WHOSE IDENTITY HE DECLINED TO FURNISH, DROVE

A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE. HE WOULD FURNISH NO INFORMATION REGARDING THE

STORAGE OR USE OF THIS WHITE MUSTANG AFIER THE MUSTANG REACHED

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. HE DECLINED TO FURNISH ANY INFORMATION

REGARDING THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND THE EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE

KILLING OF DRO KING OTHER THAN NOTED ABOVE, BUT STATED THAT

• INFORMATION FURNISHED BY JAMES EARL RAY IS ACCURATE.

WILSON REQUESTED THAT SHERIFF BARKSDALE MEET HIM AT THE

HOLIDAY INS, GULFPORI, HISSISSIPPI, AT 9: 3& ABI, AUGUST 20,

1978• BARKSDALE VAS INSTRUCTED TO ENTER THE DINIG ROON AT THE

HOLIDAY INN WITHOUT A COAT AND THAT WILSON WOULD SURRENDER TO

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 69

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## Page 70

PAGE THREE ME 44-1987-SUB MEFTO

HIM THERE. HE INSISTED THAT BARKSDALE BE ALONE, THAI HE KOT

BE MISTREATED AFTER HE SURREWDERED AWD THAT BARKSDALE NOT

INFORM THE FBI, AND IF BETRAYED, HE WOULD NOT SURRENDER.

WILSON DECLINED TO FURNISH BARKSDALE HIS LOCATION, BUT BARKSDALE

BELIEVED THAI IT WAS A LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE CALL.

AI APPROXIMAIELY 11345 PM, WILSON AGAIN TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACTED BARKSDALE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

HE HAD A CLEAR CONSCIENCE, HAD TALKED WITH HIS FAMILI,

AND WAS READY TO CONFESS IO SHERIFF BARKSDALE ALONE. HE AGAIN

REQUESTED SHERIFF BARKSDALE TO MEET HIM AT THE HOLIDAY IN IN

GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI, AI 9:30 AM, AUGUST 18, 1978 IN THE

DINING ROOM WITHOUT HIS COAT ON AND ALONE, SHERIFF BARKSDALE

POINTED OUT TO HIM THAT HE, BARKSDALE, WOULD HAVE DIFFICULTY

MEETING HIM AT GULFPORT AT THE APPOINTED TIME AID REQUESTED

THAT THEY ARRAGE A MEETING AT JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI. WILSON

COURIERED BY INFORMING BARKSDALE THAT BARKSDALE WAS A PILOT

ÁND HAD ACCESS IO AIRCRAFT AND THAI HE COULD OBTAIN A PLANE AND

: REACH GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI IN A RELATIVELY SHORT PERIOD OF

IIME.: WILSON ABSOLUTELY DECLINED TO MEET WITH BARKSDALE IN

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI. DURING THIS CONVERSATION, WILSON INFORMED

BARKSDALE THAI HE WAS THEI IN NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIARA, AND THAT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 70

---

## Page 71

PAGE FOUR ME 44-1987-SUB MEFT O

HE COULD REACH GULFPORT, HISSISSIPPI IN ABOUT ONE AND OUE HALF

HOURS a

AI APPROKIMATELY 9:45 Ail, AUGUST 18, 1978, REVEREND NOEL

FANNON, PASTOR, SI. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

HISSISSIPPI, TELEPHONE NUMBER 875-0654, TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED

SHERIFF BARKSDALE AND FURNISHED THE FOLLOVING INFORMATION:

REVEREND FANNON WAS IN A CAFE IN OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI

ON THE MORNING OF AUGUSI 18, 1978, HAVING BREAKFAST. BURGESS

VILSON APPROACHED HIM AND RELATED INFORMATION INDICATING ME,

VILSON, HAD SHOT DR, MARTIN LUTHER KING, JRO, IN MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE IN APRIL OF 1968. HE INFORMED REVEREND FANNON THAT

HE WAS TO LET SHERIFE BARKSDALE AI THE HOLIDAY INM, GULFPORT,

PASSISSIPPI, AND REQUESTED REVEREND FANNON TO FOLLOW HIM TO THE

HOLIDAY INN.

_ NW. 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 71

---

## Page 72

PAGE FIVE ME 44-1987-SUB ME FIO

WILSON ALSO TALKED WITH SHERIFF BARKSDALE ON THIS OCCASION

AND ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING THE FAILURE OF SHERIFF BARKSDALE

10 MEZI VITH KIN AT 9:35 AM ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, AS HE HAD

PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED, SHERIFF BARKSDALE INFORMED WILSON THAT HE

HAD BEEN ON DUTY ALL NIGHT IN CORTECTION WITH THE STRIKE

IWOLVING THE MEUPHIS POLICE DEPARTMENT, AND HAD NI BEEN ABLE

TO ARRANGE MATTERS SÒ THAT HE COULD MEET WITH HIM. BARKSDALE

INFORMED WILSON THAT HE WOULD ATTEUPT TO ARRANGE A MEETING

WITH HIM, WILSON INFORDED BARKSDALE THAT HE WOULD STAY IN THE

VICINITY OF THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, AID VOULD CONTACI THE

DESK GLERK AT THE HOLIDAY INN PERIODICALLY IN ORDER FOR

BARKSDALE TO ARRANGE TO WEET WITH HIM. WILSON FURNISHED

BARKSDALE TELEPHONE NUMBER 601-864-4312 AS THE TELEPHONE. NUMBER

OF A HOLIDAY IND HE WOULD PERIODICALLY COUTACT.

BARKSDALE REPORTED THAT WILSON APPEARED TO BE. COHERENT

AND THIS INFORMATIOU WAS ALSO FURNISHED TO BARKSDALE BY REVEREND.

FANNON•

BARKSDALE FURNISHED INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THE BUREAU

OF IDENTIFICATION, SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF*S OFFICE, INDICATING

THAT BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, FBI NUMBER 879 421 E, VAS ARRESTED

AT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF*S OFFICE OU MAY 14, 1964;

BY THE MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARIMENT ON MAY. 26, 1964, AND BY THE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 72

---

## Page 73

PAGE SIN ME 1987-SUB ME F TO

SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF*S OFFICE ON MAY 27, 1964 AND MARCH 24,

1965, WITH RESIDENCE AT 3612 COVINGTON PIKE, MEMPHIS• WILSON

VAS ARRESTED BY THE BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS AUTHORITIES ON JUNE 129

1972 FOR CORTEMPT OF COURT DRAVING OUT OF THE CHILD SUPPORT

QUESTIONED IN BEXAR COUNTY. AT THE TIME WILSON RESIDED AT 1505

VESI CANYON LAKE DRIVE, CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. HIS ENPLOYMENT

VAS SHOUN AS A JEVELER.

THE FBI FINGERPRINT, RECORD INDICATES THAT WILSON IS KNOWN

AS BURGESS AUDIE VILSO, JR. HE IS A WHITE MALE BORN AUGUST 28,

1931, AI FULION, MISSISSIPPI, 5°10" TALL, 155 POUNDS, BROWN

EYES AID EÑOUN HAI, WHEN ARRESTED IL MAY OF 1961, HE RESIDED

AT 3095 RUSKIN ROAD, NEUPHIS, TENNESSEE.

DURING CONVERSATION WITH SHERIFF BARKSDALE, WILSON INDICATED

HE HAS A FATHER-I:-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN, UHO RESIDES AT 3895

_ NW 65994 Docid:32989768 Page 73.

steameras

---

## Page 74

+1770

PAGE SEVEN HE 44-1987 SUBM EFT O

RUSKIN ROAD, MEMPHIS, TELEPHONE NUMBER 386-4623, AND THAT

HIS FATHER WAS FORMERLY PASTOR AI THE HOLLYWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH,

/CHELSEA AND HOLLYWOOD AVENUES, HEUPHIS, AND AT THE CENTRAL

BAPTIST CHURCH, GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI.

ADMINISTRATIVE: RE MEMPHIS TELEPHONE CALLS TO BUREAU

SUPERVISOR DREW CLARK, AUGUST 18, 1978. SUCOP

MÉPHIS INDIGES AND FILES REVEAL BURGESS AUDIE VILSON, JR.,

VAS ELIMINATED AS A SUSPECT IN AN B7 MATTER INVOLVING THE

TRANSPORTAIION OF JEVELRY IN 1973. AT THE TIME, IT

• WAS DETERMINED HE HAD BEEN IN BUSINESS AS THE NORTH STAR DIAMOND

CIRCLE, VALLEY HILL MALL, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, FROM EARLY 1971

TO MIDDLE 1971•

JACKSON AT JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI, WILL CAUSE A REVIEW OF

RECORDS AT LOGICAL POLICE AGENCIES REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE VILSON,

JRa, FBI NUMBER 879-421 E.

SAN ANTONIO AT BEXAR, TEXAS, VILL REVIEW APPROPRIATE RECORDS

RE IDENTITY OF CHILDREN OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRA, NOTING HE

VAS BOOKED AI BEXAR COUNTY JAIL JUNE 19, 1972, FOR CONTEMPT OF

COURT GROUING OUT OF CHILD SUPPORI QUESTION IN BEKAR COUNTY,

BI

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 74

---

## Page 75

ME0005 23023402

00 HQ JN

DE ME

0 1823402 AUG 78

FM MEMPHIS (44-1987-SUB M) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS E FI O

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, ROOM

8988, JEH

BUILDING •

MURKIN.

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPE TO FBIHQ AND JACKSON, AUGUST 18,

1978, AND MEMPHIS TELEPHONE CALLS TO FBIHQ AND JACKSON,

AUGUST 18, 1978.

AT 3:15 Poll., ON AUGUST 18, 1978, BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE, SHELBY

COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. WILSON STATED

HE WILL APPEAR AI THE HOLIDAY INN DINING ROOM, GULFPORI,

SS1SSTPPX, VITH REVEREN NOEL FANION, PASTOR, ST - EL 21=5*44-33

SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, AT

1..

Rueteau 3363

NWW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 75.

---

## Page 76

WAGE TWO

ME 44-

7-SUB M UNCLAS EFT

6:30 P.M., ON AUGUST 18, 1978. SHERIFF BARKSDALE DOES NOT

PLAN TO LEAVE MEMPHIS AND MEET WITH WILSON• SPECIAL AGENTS

OF THE JACKSON DIVISION WILL ATTEMPT TO CONTACT WILSON AND

INTERVIEW HIM REGARDING INFORMATION HE PREVIOUSLY FURNISHED

TO SHERIFF BARKSDALE INDICATING HE KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER

KING IN 1968.

JACKSON WILL PROMPTLY FURNISH FBIHQ AND MEMPHIS RESULTS

OF CONTACT WITH WILSON. IF DEEMED APPROPRIATE AFTER INTERVIEW,

ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEW RELATIVES OF WILSON RE

VERACITY OF ALLEGATION AND PRESENCE IN MEMPHIS DURING

CRITICAL PERIOD AND IF WILSON HAS HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRIC

TREATMENT.

THE MEMPHIS OFFICE WILL ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEW

WILSON'S FATHER-IN-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN, WHO REPORTEDLY RESIDES

IN THE MEMPHIS AREA, RE ANY INFORMATION OF WILSON*S

ALLEGATION.

BT

JN REC ONE TEL

•NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 76

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## Page 77

NE0 065 23023407

00 HO JU

DE HE

O 182346Z AUS 78

FU WEMPHIS (44-1937-SUB #) (P)

TO DIRECIOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON INNEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFTO•

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, ROOM 8968, JEH

BUILDING •

MURKIN•

RE MEMPHIS TÉLETYPE TO FBIHO AND JACKSON, AUGUST 18,

1973, AND MEMPHIS TELEPHONE CALLS TO FBIHQ AND JACKSON,

AUGUST 18, 1978.

AI 3:15 POlo, ON AUGUST 18, 1978, BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

TELEPHONICALLY COLTACTED SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE, SHELBY

COUNTY SHERIFF*S OFFICE, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. WILSON STATED

HE ILL APPEAR AT THE HOLIDAY IT DINING ROOM, GULFPORT,

MISSISSIPPI, WITH REVEREND NOEL FANION, PASTOR, ST • ELIZABETH

SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, AT

62-544-33

ON OT

3,20

NWf5994 Docld:32989768 Page 77

---

## Page 78

PAGE TUO

HE 44-

57&SUB M

UNCLAS E F T

6:30 Polla, ON AUGUST

18, 1978 SHERIFF BARKSDALE DOES NOT

PLAN TO LEAVE HEMPHIS AND WEET WITH WILSON, SPEGIAL AGENIS

OF THE JACKSOU DIVISION WILL ATTENPT TO CONTACT WILSON ARD

INTERVIEW HIM REGARDING INFORMATION HE PREVIOUSLY FURNISHED

TO SHERIFF BARKEDALE INDICATIKG HE KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER

KING IN 1968.

JACKSON WILL PROMPTLY FURNISH FBIKO AID MEMPHIS RESULTS

OF CONTACT WITH WILSON. IF DEEVED APPROPRIATE AFTER INTERVIEU,

ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEW RELATIVES OF WILSON RE

VERACITY OF ALLEGATION AND PRESENCE IN NEUPHIS DURIKG

CRITICAL PERIOD AND IF WILSON HAS HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRIC

TREATNEiT .

THE MEMPHIS OFFICE WILL ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEW

WILSON'S FATHER-IN-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN, UHO REPORTEDLY RESIDES

IN THE MEMPHIS AREA, RE ANY INFORMATION OF WILSON*S

ALLEGATION.

BT

.....

-.-

JN REC ONE TEL

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 78•

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## Page 79

SAO 094 23023507

00 HQ ME JN

DE SA

0 182350ZAUG 78

FII SAN ANTONIO (44-1242)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS E FT O

• ATIN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING .

MURKIN.

RECORDS, IDENTIFICATION BUREAU, BEXAR COUNTY JAIL,

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, ON AUGUST 18, 1978, INDICATE BURGESS

ADIE WILSON, JR., WHITE MALE, BORN AUGUST 28, 1931,

5 FT, 11 INCHES, BLACK HAIR, BROWN EYES, BOOKED INTO BEXAR.

COUNTY JAIL JUNE 19, 1972 ON CONTEMPT OF COURT OUT OF STATE

DISTRICT COURT 57 (CASE NUMBER F 248-084). WILSON SERVED

TWELVE DAYS AND WAS RELEASED JUNE 3D, 1972.

CENTRAL RECORDS, BEXAR COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, WILL

NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW UNTIL AUGUST 21, 1978.

ADMINISTRATIVE: RE MEMPHIS TEL, AUGUST 18, 1978.

SAN ANTONIO INDICES AND FILES REVEAL BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

JR., WHITE MALE, BORN 8/28/31, TEXAS DRIVERS LICENSE (EDL>

62-544-34

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 79

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## Page 80

PAGE TWO SA 44-1242 EFTO

NUMBER 7911315 EXPIRING 8/20/80, PREVIOUS ADDRESS,

113 MILLS STREET, SAN MARCOS, TEXAS IS SUBJECI OF SAN ANTONIO

FILE 29-2620 CAPTIONED "BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.: BF&E";

00: SAN ANTONIO. WILSON ALLEDGEDLY DEFAULTED ON A $1,000

NOTE AT KYLE STATE BANK, KYLE, TEXAS AND IN A

SECURITY AGREEMENT AND FINANCING STATEMENT FILED WITH THE

HAYES COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK'S OFFICE, WILSON INDICATED THAT

THE $1, DOD NOTE WAS OBTAINED TO PURCHASE CATTLE.

NEIC INQUIRY REVEALED BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

BORN 8/28/31 IN MISSISSIPPI, SSAN 422-34-1275, TDL

77911315 WANTED BY NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS POLICE DEPARIMENI AS

PROBATION VIOLATOR, DATE OF WARRANT. 4/18/78.

SAN ANTONIO AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, WILL REVIEW BEXAR

COUNTY DISTRICT COURT RECORDS RE IDENTITY OF CHILDREN OF BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR. IN EFFORT TO LOCATE FORMER WIFE FOR INTERVIEW.

AT NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, WILL CAUSE A REVIEW OF RECORDS OF

LOGICAL POLICE AGENCIES REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

SSAN 422-34-1275.

AT SAN MARCOS, TEXAS, WILL CONDUCI DISCREET INQUIRY TO

DETERMINE IF RESIDENCE OF FORMER WIFE AND FAMILY FOR INTERVIEW.

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 80

---

## Page 81

SAO 094 2302350

00 HQ ME JU

DE SA

0 182350ZAUG 73

FM SAN ANTONIO

(44- 1242) P

TO DIRECTOR

(44-35861) INMEDIATE

HENPHIS (44-1987 SU3 M1) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON INMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS E FT O

ATTA CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING

MURKIN®

RECORDS, IDEITIFICATION BUREAU, BEXAR COUNTY JAIL,

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, ON AUGUST 18, 1978, INDICATE BURGESS

EDIE VILSON, JR., WHITE MALE, BORN AUGUST 23, 1931,

5 FT, 11 INCHES, BLACK HAIR, BROWN EYES, BOOKED INTO BEXAR

COUNTY JAIL JUNE 19, 1972 ON COITEUPT OF COURT OUT OF STATE

DISTRICT COURT 57 (CASE NUMBER F 248-024), WILSON SERVED

TWELVE DAYS AND WAS RELEASED JUNE 30, 1972+

CENTRAL RECORDS, BEXAR COUNTY DISTRICI COURT, WILL

NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW UNTIL AUGUST 21, 1978.

ADMINISTRATIVE: RE MEMPHIS TEL, AUGUST 18, 1978.

SAM ANTONIO INDICES AND FILES REVEAL BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

JR., WHITE MALE, BORN 8/28/31, TEXAS DRIVERS LICENSE ADL)

62-544-34

350

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 81

---

## Page 82

PAGE TWO SA 44-1242 EFTO

NUMBER 7911315 EXPIRING 8/20/89, PREVIOUS ADDRESS,

Is cared

113 MILLS STREET, SAN MARCOS, TEXAS IS SUBJECI OF SAI ANTONIO

FILE 29-2620 CAPTIONED "BURGESS AUDIE VILSON, JR. : BF&E";

00: SAN ANTONIO. WILSON ALLEDCEDLY DEFAULIED OU A $1,000

NOTE AT KYLE STATE BANK, KYLE, TEXAS AND IN A

SECURITY AGREEMENT AND FINANCING STATEMENT FILED WITH THE

HAYES COUNTY DISTRICI CLERK'S OFFICE, WILSON INDICATED THAT

THE §1,000 NOTE HAS OBTAINED TO PURCHASE CATTLE.

NIC INQUIRY REVEALED BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR=,

BORN S/28/31 IN MISSISSIPPI, SSAN 423-34-1275, TDL

77011315 WAITED BY NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS POLICE DEPARTHENI AS

PROBATION VIOLATOR, DATE OF VARRAUT 4/18/78.

SAN ANTONIO AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, WILL REVIEV BEXAR

COUNTY DISTRICT COURT RECORDS RE IDENTITY OF CHILDREN OF BURGESS

ALDIE WILSON, JR, IU EFFORT TO LOCATE FORMER WIFE FOR INTERVIE.

AT NEV BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, WILL CAUSE A REVIEU OF RECORDS OF

LOGICAL POLICE AGENCIES REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR =9

SSAN 482-34-1275€

AI SAN MARCOS, TEXAS, WILL CONDUCT DISCREET INQUIRY TO

DETERMINE IF RESIDENCE OF FORMER WIFE AID FAMILY FOR INTERVIEU.

BE •

Locate each farily manher

Fulton

• NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 82

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## Page 83

NCIC. ZW.MSFBIJNOO.NAM/WILSON, BURGESS AUDIE JR.DOB/ 082831

NCIC MESSAGE DISPATCHED

MESSAGE FROM NCIC

08/18/78

19:19:34

1001FB|1

MSFBIJNOO

TX0460100 NAM/WILSON, BURGESS AUDIE UR SEX/M RAC/W POB/MS

DOB/082831 HGT/511 WGT/170 EYE/BRO HAI/GRY

SKN/LGT

FPC/200303101219TT541015 SOC/422341275

OLN/77911315 OLS/TX OLY/80 OFF/5012 DOW/041878 OCA/7712

MIS/ PROBATION VIOLATOR

NIC/W186769905

MESSAGE FROM NCIC

08/18/78 19:19:35

1L02FBI1

IMSFBIJNOO

'ORI IS NEW BRAUNFELS PD TX

NIC/W186769905

SIMMED CONFIRM WARRANT AND EXTRADITION WITH ORI

62-544-35

Crarched

Eivrialized.

-OKa

Indexed

Filed

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 83

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## Page 84

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FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

0950z

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

0625g

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) (IMMEDIATE) 0724Z

BT

UNCLAS EF

TO

ATTN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT; ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING.

MURKIN.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, AT 6 PM, MR. WILLIAM DON GLADDEN,

AGE 46, W/M, RT. 3, BOX 205H-3 (MEADOW LARK DRIVE), GULF PARK

ESTATES, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS., TELEPHONE 875-3518 ADVISED AS

FOLLOWS:

HE IS EMPLOYED AS MGR. OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE IN

GULFPORT, MS. (TELEPHONE 896-3221). HE AND HIS WIFE, ALICE

A. GLADDEN, OWN A GIFT SHOP, "SEASONS AND REASONS," 2446

HIGHWAY 90 EAST, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS. (TELEPHONE 875-2531).

ON OR ABOUT JULY 26, 1978, A W/M BY THE NAME OF "BILI"

62-544-36

LOKs

I- Jackson

Butear 3,13

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_--FAGE-TWO-IN 62-544-UNOTASI-I-I-O---

WILSON CAME TO THEIR GIFT SHOP IN OCEAN SPRINGS SAYING THAT

HE PLANNED TO OPEN A WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN THE EDGEWATER

MALI SHOPPING CENTER, BILOXI, MS., AND WOULD LIKE TO USE

THE GLADDENS' GIFT SHOP AS A PICKUP POINT FOR HIS WATCH

REPAIR BUSINESS. GLADDEN ADVISED NEITHER HE NOR HIS WIFE

HAD EVER MET WILSON PRIOR TO THIS TIME. FOUR OR FIVE DAYS

LATER, GLADDEN AGREED TO LET WILSON RENT A ROOM TO THE REAR

OF GLADDEN'S GIFT SHOP IN WHICH WILSON SET UP HIS WATCH

REPAIR BUSINESS. GLADDEN AGREED TO LET WILSON KEEP 20

PERCENT OF PROFITS COMING FROM THE WATCH REPAIR.

GLADDEN AGREED THAT HE AND HIS WIFE "GREW TO TRUST"

WILSON FROM THE VERY BEGINNING AND CONSIDERED HIM TO BE A

VERY HARD WORKER, WHO PUT A LOT OF HIS OWN MONEY INTO

LOCAL RADIO ADVERTISING BUILDING UP HIS WATCH REPAIR

BUSINESS. WILSON LATER TOLD GLADDEN HE HAD "POSTPONED"

OPENING UP A BUSINESS IN THE EDGEWATER MALL. WILSON HAD HIS

OWN JEWELRY AND WATCH REPAIR EQUIPMENT AND, ACCORDING IO

GLADDEN, SPENT SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS OF HIS OWN MONEY TO

PURCHASE ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT AFTER RENTING THE SPACE IN

GLADDEN'S BUSINESS. WILSON KEPT A KEY TO THE GIFT SHOP

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PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E ET O

WHICH HE OPENED EVERY MORNING. HE WORKED HARD IN THE SHOP

COMPLETING HIS WATCH REPAIRS AFTER WHICH HE WOULD LEAVE THE

SHOP FOR PLACES UNKNOWN.

WILSON INDICATED TO GLADDEN THAT HE HAD A DRINKING

PROBLEM AND WAS TRYING TO ESTABLISH HIMSELF AND WORK HARD IN

THE WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN HOPES OF GETTING OVER THIS

PROBLEM.

AT THE BEGINNING, WILSON RESIDED AT APARTMENT NO. 9,

TWIN PINES MOTEL, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS., BUT AT AN UNKNOWN LATER

DATE MOVED TO ROUBE 6, BOX 387, ROUTE SPRINGS. (TELEPHONE

875-9542).

NEITHER GLADDEN NOR HIS WIFE HAD EVER VISITED WILSON

AT THE ABOVE TWO RESIDENCES AND ONLY TOOK WILSON'S WORD THAT

HE LIVED THERE. ACCORDING TO GLADDEN, WILSON COMMENTED THAT

HE IS STAYING IN A HOUSE OWNED BY AN UNIDENTIFIED FRIEND

AND IS NOT PAYING ANY RENT AS LONG AS. HE KEEPS THE HOUSE IN

REPAIR.

WILSON RECENTLY TOOK GLADDEN AND GLADDEN'S SON FOR A

RIDE IN AN AIRPLANE PILOTED BY WILSON. GLADDEN CONSIDERS

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PAGE FOUR JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F

T 0

KNOW EVERYTHING THERE WAS TO KNOW ABOUT FLYING AIRPLANES IN

ROUGH WEATHER.

GLADDEN FURTHER ADVISED THAT IN HIS OPINION WILSON IS

AN "EXTREMELY INTELLIGENT MAN"; HOWEVER, HE IS UNAWARE OF

THE EXTENT OF WILSON'S EDUCATION.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT AT 11:45 PM, ON 8/17/78, WILSON

TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACTED HIM AT HIS RESIDENCE SAYING HE

HAD TO TALK TO GLADDEN AND HIS WIFE ABOUT SOMETHING THAT

COULD NOT WAIT UNTIL THE MORNING. WILSON REFUSED TO STATE

BY TELEPHONE WHY HE WANTED TO TALK TO GLADDEN AND HE REFUSED

TO COME TO GLADDEN'S RESIDENCE. WILSON SAID HE NEEDED TO

TALK ABOUT SOMETHING OF "NATIONAL URGENCY." THEY AGREED TO

MEET AI GLADDEN'S GIFT SHOP AT OCEAN SPRINGS AT 12:15 AM,

8/18/78.

GLADDEN ADVISED HE TOOK HIS WIFE AND 18 YEAR OLD

SON, JOHN W. GLADDEN, TO THE SHOP WHERE HE MET WILSON AT

THE ABOVE TIME. WILSON ARRIVED ALONE, DRIVING AN OLD

MODEL BLUE CHEVROLET SEDAN WITH WHITE TOP, BEARING UNKNOWN

LOUISIANA FAG. WILSON APPARENTLY HAD BEEN DRINKING INAS-

MUCH AS HIS EYES WERE VERY

RED AND HE SMELLED OF ALCOHOL;

HOWEVER, HE DID NOT TALK LIKE AN INTOXICATED PERSON IN

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PAGE FIVE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F

GLADDEN'S OPINION AND SEEMED TO BE "VERY DEPRESSED."

WILSON SAID "I'M THE MYSTERY MAN. I'M THE MAN THAT

MURDERED MARTIN LUTHER KING." THEY TALKED FOR APPROXIMATELY

ONE HOUR AND 15 MINUTES. WILSON STATED THAT HE GREW UP IN

GRENADA, MS., WHERE HIS FATHER WAS A BAPTIST MINISTER. THE

BLACKS (REFERRED TO AS "NEGRES AND NIGGERS" BY WILSON), WHO

LIVED IN THE AREA WERE WELCOMED TO WORSHIP AT THE CHURCH;

HOWEVER, WHEN THE NORTHERN BLACKS BEGAN TO COME DOWN SOUTH,

WILSON'S FATHER WELCOMED THEM INTO HIS CHURCH ONLY IF THEY

CAME TO WORSHIP AND NOT TO CAUSE TROUBLE. ACCORDING TO

WILSON, THE BLACKS HAD COME FOR TROUBLE AND IT WAS FOR THIS

REASON THAT HIS ATTITUDE BEGAN TO CHANGE TOWARD BLACKS.

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS, "I AM THE ONE THAT PULLED THE

TRIGGER. THERE WAS A CONSPIRACY. I WAS THE LOGICAL ONE. "

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS HE HAD "BEEN WITH THE GOVERNMENT

AND GOT INVOLVED IN SOME UNDECLARED WARS. " (HE DID NOT

FURTHER ELABORATE; HOWEVER, GLADDEN RECALLED THAT WILSON

ONCE MENTIONED HE HAD BEEN IN THE AIR FORCE.) WILSON CLAIMED

TO KNOW MARTIN LUTHER KING'S FATHER AND BROTHER AND STATED

HE GREW UP NEXT DOOR TO A COUSIN OF MARTIN LUTHER KING AND

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"KNEW HIS ENTIRE FAMILY."

GLADDEN RECALLED THAT HE (GLADDEN) HAD ONCE PURCHASED

A USED MUSTANG FOR HIS DAUGHTER. ON SEEING THE VEHICLE

WILSON REMARKED HE HAD ONCE PURCHASED A WHITE MUSTANG FOR

HIS DAUGHTER.

DURING THE CONVERSATION ON THE EARLY MORNING OF

8/18/78, WILSON STATED THAT HIS DAUGHTER HAD DRIVEN THE WHITE

MUSTANG TO MEMPHIS AT THE TIME OF THE KING KILLING. WILSON

COMMENTED THAT HE WAS IN MEMPHIS AT THAT TIME, BUT HAD

DOCUMENTED HIMSELF TO BE IN KANSAS CITY AS AN ALIBI. WILSON

STATED THAT JAMES EARL RAY

WAS THE "FALL GUY." "RAY ONLY

SAW ME TWICE, BUT I KNEW HIM. RAY WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE

GOTTEN AWAY CLEAN. I'M SURPISED RAY HAS BROUGHT IT ALL BACK

UP AGAIN BECAUSE HE WOULD HAVE HIS PAROLE IN TWO YEARS."

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT HE WOULD NOT SEE THEM

ANYMORE AFTER TONIGHT AND HE WANTED. THEM TO HAVE ALL HIS

EXPENSIVE WATCH REPAIR EQUIPMENT.

WILSON, AGAIN REFERRING TO THE KING ASSASSINATION,

STATED, "IT WAS PART OF A GROUP CONSPIRACY." HE PROVIDED NO

FURTHER DETAILS STATING HE WOULD ONLY DEAL WITH THE

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PAGE SEVEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

"SHERIFF OF MEMPHIS (TENN.), WHO HE USED TO FLY WITH.

WILSON FELT THAT THE GOVERNMENT WANTED IT TO HAPPEN TO KING.

"I KNEW IT NEEDED TO BE DONE." WILSON DID NOT BELIEVE HE

WOULD HAVE TO SERVE MUCH TIME FOR HIS INVOLVEMENT, STATING

"I'M NOT SORRY I DID IT. THE NIGGERS ARE BETTER OFF."

LATER IN THE CONVERSATION WITH THE GLADDENS, WILSON SAID HE

WAS SORRY HE HAD DONE IT.

• WILSON STATED HE HAD TALKED WITH THE MEMPHIS SHERIFF

BY PHONE AND WAS TO MEET HIM AT THE GULFPORT, MS., HOLIDAY

INN DURING THE MORNING OF 8/18/78. WILSON SPECULATED AS

TO WHETHER OR NOT HE WOULD BE PROVIDED WITH A TV IN HIS CELL

AND INDICATED HE PROBABLY WOULD BE GIVEN WORK AS AN

INSTRUCTOR OR REPAIRMAN OF WATCHES WHILE IN JAIL.

REVERTING TO THE KING ASSASSINATION, WILSON TOLD

THE GLADDENS THAT HE SHOT KING "NOT FROM 50 YARDS AWAY, BUT

50 FEET AWAY.," HE WAS CLOSE ENOUGH TO SEE THE BULLET HIT

AND STATED SPECIFICALLY THAT "I SHOT THE SHIT OUT OF HIM AND

SAW IT FLY." WILSON NEVER MENTIONED TO GLADDEN THE TYPE OF

GUN HE ALLEGEDLY USED OR THE LOCATION FROM. WHICH HE ALLEGEDLY

SHOT KING.

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-PAGE EIGHT UN 62-544 UNCLAS E FIO--

AT ONE POINT IN THE CONVERSATION WITH THE GLADDENS,

WILSON APPARENTLY FEELING A DISAPPROVING GLANCE FROM GLADDEN'S

18 YEAR OLD SON, WARNED THE SON HE HAD BETTER NOT INTERFERE.

CONCERNING THE UNIDENTIFIED MEMPHIS SHERIFF, WILSON

OFFERED TO FURNISH THIS INDIVIDUAL'S NAME AND TELEPHONE NO.

TO GLADDEN FOR VERIFICATION OF HIS REMARKS; HOWEVER, GLADDEN

REFUSED. WILSON SAID HE HAS "GONE THROUGH TEN YEARS OF HELL,

AND BECAUSE HE KILLED KING, IT RUINED 26 YEARS OF MARRIAGE;

HOWEVER, HIS CONSCIENCE ONLY STARTED BOTHERING HIM IN THE

LAST FEW YEARS.

APPARENTLY REFERRING TO A SKETCH OF KING'S KILLER,

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT IT WAS ALMOST AN EXACT LIKENESS

OF HIM AND BECAUSE IT WAS RECENTLY

SHOWN ON TV, HE DECIDED

TO TURN HIMSELF IN. HE SAID HE HAS A SISTER IN FULTON, MS.

(NOT FURTHER IDENTIFIED), WHO TELEPHONED HIM IN OCEAN

SPRINGS TO SAY THAT THE SKETCH LOOKED JUST LIKE HIM. WILSON

TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT HE HAD TELEPHONED VARIOUS FAMILY

MEMBERS TO LET THEM KNOW HE WAS TURNING HIMSELF IN.

WILSON ALSO STATED THAI HE, AT ONE TIME, INTENDED TO

OPEN A WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN TUPELO, MS., BUT DECIDED

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AGAINST IT BECAUSE OF THE TENSE RACIAL SITUATION.

WILSON ALSO ONCE TOLD MRS. GLADDEN THAT HE GETS "FLIGHT

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS" AT KEESLER AIR FORCE, BILOXI, MS.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT WILSON REPEATED HIMSELF MANY TIMES

DURING THE ONE HOUR AND FIFTEEN MINUTE CONVERSATION ON

8/18/78, BUT HE PROVIDED NO FURTHER DETAILS CONCERNING THE

KING ASSASSINATION, OTHER THAN THAT STATED HEREIN.

AT THE END OF THEIR CONVERSATION, GLADDEN ADVISED

WILSON DEPARTED THE STORE IN HIS AUTOMOBILE AND HEADED IN AN

EASTERLY DIRECTION. THE GLADDENS WERE AFRAID AND DISTURBED

AT THE CONVERSATION AND PROMPTLY

TELEPHONED THE JACKSON FBI

OFFICE.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT TO THE BEST OF HIS RECOLLECTION

DURING THE SHORT TIME HE AND HIS WIFE KNEW WILSON, HE NEVER

TALKED ABOUT HIS PAST, OTHER THAN TO MENTION THAT HE HAD

BEEN IN THE U. S. AIR FORCE; HAD BEEN MARRIED FIVE TIMES,

TWICE TO THE SAME WOMAN; HE GREW UP IN MISS.; AND HAD BEEN

ON THE GULE COAST LESS THAN THREE MONTHS. THE GLADDENS DO

NOT KNOW WHERE HE CAME FROM OR WHAT HE HAS DONE PRIOR IO HIS

ARRIVING AT THEIR PLACE OF BUSINESS 7/26/78.

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GLADDEN ADVISED THAT IN HIS REGULAR BUSINESS AS SOCIAL

• SECURITY OFFICE MANAGER HE HAS PERSONAL DEALINGS ON A

FREQUENT BASIS WITH PEOPLE HAVING MENTAL PROBLEMS AND WHILE

HE IS NOT A QUALIFIED PERSON IN THIS FIELD, HE IS NOT OF THE

OPINION WILSON HAS MENTAL IMPAIRMENT. HE DESCRIBED WILSON

AS A WHITE MALE; 5 FT. 8 INCHES; 155 LBS; MEDIUM BUILD;

RUDDY COMPLEXION; GRAYING HAIR; AGE 46, WHO LIKES TO DRINK

VODKA AND COKE.

ON 8/18/78, SHORTLY

BEFORE NOON, WILSON TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACTED GLADDEN ADVISING THAT HE HAD BEEN BETRAYED, THAT

HE HAD BEEN TO GULFPORT, MS., HOLIDAY INN, ALONG WITH "THE

FATHER" (NOT FURTHER IDENTIFIED BY WILSON), WHERE HE HAD

SEEN PERSONS BELIEVED TO BE WITH THE FBI. HE WAS NOW BACK

AT HIS RESIDENCE WATCHING THE WINDOWS AND WOULD BLOW THE

HEAD OFF OF ANYONE WHO CAME, EXCEPT "THE FATHER."

ABOUT THREE HOURS LATER, MR. AND MRS. GLADDEN WERE

SURPRISED TO SEE WILSON WALK INTO THEIR GIFT SHOP, HE WAS

CLEAN SHAVEN AND NEAT. HE APPARENTLY HAD NOT BEEN DRINKING.

HE IMPLIED HE HAD BEEN IN TOUCH WITH THE FBI, BUT THEY WERE

NOT GOING TO DO ANYTHING TO HIM. HE HAD MADE SOME KIND OF

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BARGAIN. HE NOW WANTED TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE AND ASKED

IF HE COULD KEEP HIS WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN THE BACK OF

GLADDEN'S STORE AS USUAL.

THE GLADDENS ADVISED WILSON THEY WERE SERIOUSLY

CONTEMPLATING SELLING THE BUSINESS AND HAD ALREADY CONTACTED

A REALTOR.

AT 6:28 PM, 8/18/78, FIVE FBI AGENTS ESTABLISHED

PHYSICAL OBSERVATION AT THE HOLIDAY INN, U. S. HIGHWAY 90,

GLEPORT, MS.

AT APPROXIMATELY 6:45, PM, A 1970 PLYMOUTH BEARING JACKSON

COUNTY, MS., LICENSE JAH-637 STOPPED IN FRONT OF THE HOLIDAY

INN AND A WHITE MALE, WHO LATER ACKNOWLEDGED THAT HE WAS

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., EXITED THE VEHICLE AND ENTERED THE

HOLIDAY INN. THE WHITE MALE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE THEREAFTER

PARKED THE VEHICLE AND CAME TO THE ENTRANCE OF THE HOLIDAY

INN, WHERE HE WAS APPROACHED BY SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES AND

WAS ASKED IF HE WAS FATHER NOEL FANNON AND HE ACKNOWLEDGED

THAT HE WAS,

FATHER FANNON WAS ADVISED THAI GENE BARKSDALE, SHERIFF

OF SHELBY COUNTY, MEMPHIS, TENN., WAS NOT GOING TO MEET

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WILSON. HE WAS ADVISED THAT AGENTS OF THE FBI WERE IN THE

MOTEL AND HE WAS REQUESTED TO TELL WILSON THAT THE SHERIFF WAS

NOT GOING TO MEET HIM; HOWEVER, THE FBI AGENTS WERE AT THE

MOTEL AND DESIRED TO TALK WITH HIM IF HE, WILSON, WOULD AGREE

TO TALK WITH THE AGENTS. FATHER FANNON STATED HE WOULD LIKE

TO TALK TO WILSON BECAUSE SHERIFF BARKSDALE HAD LIED ABOUT

HIS APPEARANCE IN GULFPORT.

FATHER FANNON THEREAFTER ENTERED THE MOTEL AND TALKED

WITH WILSON IN THE LOBBY. SHORTLY THEREAFTER, THEY BOTH

RETURNED TO THE SIDEWALK IN FRONT OF THE MOTEL AND SA GRAVES

IDENTIFIED HIMSELF TO WILSON AND ASKED HIM IF HE WERE BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON. HE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT HE WAS AND LATER STATED

HE WAS A JUNIOR.

WILSON WAS ADVISED THAT SHERIFF BARKSDALE WAS NOT THERE

TO MEET HIM, HOWEVER, FBI AGENTS WERE THERE AND DESIRED TO

TALK WITH HIM, PARIICULARLI ABOUT HIS DAUGHTER SUPPOSEDLY

HAVING DRIVEN A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY, MO., TO

MEMPHIS, TENN. HE STATED HE HAD NO INFORMATION TO FURNISH

THE FBI. WILSON INQUIRED AS TO WHETHER OR NOT HE WAS UNDER

ARREST AND HE WAS ADVISED HE WAS NOT UNDER ARREST. WILSON

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PAGE THIRTEEN IN 62-544 UNCIAS EF TO-

COMMENTED HE WAS NOT GOING TO GIVE ANYONE ANY TROUBLE. HE

WAS ASKED IF HE HAD ANY WEAPONS ON HIM AND HE STATED HE DID

NOT AND THAT SA GRAVES COULD SEARCH HIM IF HE SO DESIRED.

WILSON WAS THEN "PATTED DOWN" AND NO WEAPONS WERE FELT ON

HIS BODY:

WILSON COMMENTED THAT HE AND FATHER FANNON HAD BEEN

TO THE MOTEL AT 9:30 AM, 8/18/78, AND AGAIN AT 6:30 PM,

8/18/78

• TO SEE SHERIFF BARKSDALE AND THE SHERIFF HAD LIED

TO THEM.

WILSON. THEN ASKED FATHER FANNON IF HE WOULD DRIVE HIM

BACK TO THE PLACE HE HAD BEEN PICKED UP AND FATHER FANNON

AGREED TO DO SO.

WILSON WAS AGAIN ADVISED THAT FBI AGENTS WERE AT THE

MOTEL AND WERE STILL WILLING TO TALK TO HIM AND HE

REITERATED HE HAD NOTHING TO SAY IO THE FBI AND, AS HE

DEPARTED, COMMENTED THAT THE FBI IN THE PAST HAD HARASSED

HIS FATHER WITHOUT ANY EXPLANATION.,

FATHER FANNON AND WILSON THEREAFTER LEFT THE AREA OF THE

HOLIDAY INN IN FATHER FANNON'S VEHICLE PROCEEDING EAST ON

HIGHWAY 90. A SURVEILLANCE WAS MAINTAINED ON THE VEHICLE.

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PAGE FOURTEEN IN 52-544 UNCLAS E FIÒ

SHORTLY AFTER WILSON AND FATHER FANNON LEFT THE MOTEL,

JACKSON ASAC TELEPHONICALLY ADVISED THE GULFPORT RA THAT

INFORMATION HAD BEEN RECEIVED THAT NOIC REVEALED WILSON WAS

WANTED BY THE NEW BRAUNSFELS, TX., PD FOR PROBATION VIOLATION

ON A WARRANT ISSUED APRIL 18, 1978.

THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD WAS NOTIFIED OF THIS OUTSTANDING

WARRANT AND THE SURVEILLANCE OF FATHER FANNON'S VEHICLE WAS

MAINTAINED UNTIL THE VEHICLE ENTERED OCEAN SPRINGS, MS.

(APPROXIMATELY 15 MILES), AT WHICH TIME THE VEHICLE WAS

STOPPED BY OFFICERS OF THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD AND WILSON WAS

ARRESTED AT 7:35 PM, AND INCARCERATED IN THE OCEAN SPRINGS

JAIL.

WILSON WAS RIDING AS A PASSENGER IN A PLYMOUTH SEDAN

OWNED AND DRIVEN BY FATHER NOEL FANNON, PRIEST AT ST.

ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS. WILSON

ADMITTED HIS FULL IDENTITY AS BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AND

WAS TAKEN TO THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD. HE DECLINED TO TALK TO

THE FBI.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, AT 9:17 PM, REV. NOEL FANNON,

PASTOR, SI. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

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PAGE FIFTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

MS., APPEARED AT THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD TO VISIT WILSON.

FATHER FANNON WAS INTERVIEWED, AT WHICH TIME HE ADVISED HE

FIRST MET WILSON THE MORNING OF AUGUST 18, 1978, WHILE EATING

BREAKFAST AT THE MASTER GRILL RESTAURANT, HIGHWAY 90, OCEAN

SPRINGS. HE HAD NEVER SEEN WILSON BEFORE THIS TIME.

WILSON INDICATED HE WANTED TO CONFIDE IN FATHER FANNON

AND FOLLOWING THEIR CONVERSATION, THE NATURE OF WHICH

FATHER FANNON REFUSED TO DIVULGE, FANNON AGREED TO FOLLOW

WILSON IN THEIR AUTOMOBILES TO THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI,

MS., WHERE WILSON HAD TOLD FATHER FANNON HE WOULD MEET

SHELBY COUNTY,. TENN., SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE. AFTER THE

MORNING MEETING IN GULFPORT DID NOT COME OFF, AND AT THE

URGING OF WILSON, FATHER FANNON PERSONALLY TELEPHONED

SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE IN MEMPHIS. DURING THEIR CONVERSATION,

SHERIFF BARKSDALE ASSURED FATHER FANNON HE WOULD PERSONALLY

FLY TO GULFPORT, MS., IN ORDER TO MEET WITH FATHER FANNON

AND WILSON AT 6:30 PM AT THE HOLIDAY INN.

FATHER FANNON ADVISED HE CANNOT COMMENT ON WILSON

PERSONALLY DUE TO THE SHORT LENGTH OF TIME HE HAD CONTACT

WITH THIS INDIVIDUAL. ILE CONTINUED TO POLITELY REFUSE TO

Approved: -

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## Page 99

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

0 TOP SECRET

I SECRET

[ CONFIDENTIAL

I CLEAR

Date

PAGE SIXTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

REVEAL THE NATURE OF WILSON'S

CONFIDENCE IN HIM.

FATHER FANNON WAS ADVISED BY

JACKSON SA IN BRIEF

CONCERNING WILSON'S REMARKS TO THE GLADDENS ABOUT HIS

INVOLVEMENT IN THE KING ASSASSINATION; HOWEVER, FATHER

FANNON REFUSED TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS ALSO HAD BEEN THE

SUBJECT OF WILSON'S CONFIDENCE. IN HIM.

SAN ANTONIO DIVISION AT NEW BRAUNSEELS, TEXAS. CONTACT

NEW BRAUNSFELS PD AND ADVISED THEM OF WILSON'S INCARCERATION

AT OCEAN SPRINGS, MISS., PD, TELEPHONE 875-2211.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUING JACKSON DIVISION.

BT

Approved:

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## Page 100

JNO 003 23107247

00 HQ ME SA

DE JN

0 1907247 AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-3886) IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING.

MURKIN.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, AT 6 PM, MR. WILLIAM DON GLADDEN,

AGE 46, WM, RI. 3, BOX 205H-3 (MEADOW LARK DRIVE), GULF PARK

ESTATES, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS., TELEPHONE 875-3518 ADVISED AS

FOLLOWS :

HE IS EMPLOYED AS MGR. OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE IN

GULFPORT, MS. (TELEPHONE 896-3221). HE AND HIS WIFE, ALICE

A. GLADDEN, OWN A GIFT SHOP, "SEASONS AND REASONS," 2446

HIGHWAY 9D. EAST, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS. TELEPHONE 875-2531).

ON OR ABOUT JULY 26, 1978, A UM BY THE NAME OF "BILL"

62-544-36

Preten

Surialiere

Filed

-AM/ 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 100

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## Page 101

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

WILSON CAME TO THEIR GIFT SHOP IN OCEAN SPRINGS SAYING THAT

HE PLANNED TO OPEN A WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN THE EDGEWATER

MALL SHOPPING CENTER, BILOXI, MS., AND WOULD LIKE TO USE

THE GLADDENS® GIFT SHOP AS A PICKUP POINI FOR HIS WATCH

REPAIR BUSINESS. GLADDEN ADVISED NEITHER HE NOR HIS WIFE

HAD EVER MET WILSON PRIOR TO THIS TIME. FOUR OR FIVE DAYS

LATER, GLADDEN AGREED TO LET WILSON RENT A ROOM TO THE REAR

OF GLADDEN'S GIFT SHOP IN WHICH WILSON SET UP HIS WATCH

REPAIR BUSINESS. GLADDEN AGREED TO LET WILSON KEEP 20

PERCENT OF PROFITS COMING FROM THE WATCH REPAIR.

GLADDEN AGREED THAT HE AND HIS WIFE "GREW TO TRUST"

WILSON FROM THE VERY BEGINNING AND CONSIDERED HIM TO BE A

VERY HARD WORKER, WHO PUT A LOT OF HIS OWN MONEY INTO

BOSA NESS TO WADSORT ESTER RUED GLADDEN HE HAT HOSTPORED **

OPENING UP A BUSINESS IN THE EDGEWATER MALL. WILSON HAD HIS

OWN JEWELRY AND WATCH REPAIR EQUIPMENT AND , ACCORDING TO

GLADDEN, SPENT SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS OF HIS OWN MONEY TO

PURCHASE ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT AFTER RENTING THE SPACE IN

GLADDEN'S BUSINESS. WILSON KEPT A KEY TO THE GIFT SHOP

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## Page 102

PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

WHICH HE OPENED EVERY MORNING. HE WORKED HARD IN THE SHOP

COMPLETING HIS WATCH REPAIRS AFTER WHICH HE WOULD LEAVE THE

SHOP FOR PLACES UNKNOWN.

WILSON INDICATED TO GLADDEN THAT HE HAD A DRINKING

PROBLEM AND WAS TRYING TO ESTABLISH HIMSELF AND WORK HARD IN

THE WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN HOPES OF GETTING OVER THIS

PROBLEM.

AT THE BEGINNING, WILSON RESIDED AT APARTMENT NO. 9,

TWIN PINES MOTEL, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS., BUT AT AN UNKNOWN LATER

DATE MOVED TO ROUBE 6, BOX 387, ROUTE SPRINGS TELEPHONE

875-9542) .

NEITHER GLADDEN NOR HIS WIFE HAD EVER VISITED WILSON

AT THE ABOVE TWO RESIDENCES AND ONLY TOOK WILSON'S WORD THAT

HE LIVED THERE. ACCORDING TO GLADDEN, WILSON COMMENTED THAT

HE IS STAYING IN A HOUSE OWNED BY AN UNIDENIIFIED FRIEND

AND IS NOT PAYING ANY RENT AS LONG AS HE KEEPS THE HOUSE IN

REPAIR.

WILSON RECENTLY TOOK GLADDEN AND GLADDEN'S SON FOR A

RIDE IN AN AIRPLANE PILOTED BY WILSON. GLADDEN CONSIDERS

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## Page 103

PAGE FOUR JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

KNOW EVERYTHING THERE WAS TO KNOW ABOUT FLYING AIRPLANES IN

ROUGH WEATHER .

GLADDEN FURTHER ADVISED THAT IN HIS OPINION WILSON IS

AN "EXTREMELY INTELLIGENT MAN"; HOWEVER, HE IS UNAWARE OF

THE EXTENT OF WILSON'S EDUCATION.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT AT 11:45 PM, ON 8/17/78, WILSON

TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED HIM AT HIS RESIDENCE SAYING HE

HAD TO TALK TO GLADDEN AND HIS WIFE ABOUT SOMETHING THAT

COULD NOT WAIT UNTIL THE MORNING. WILSON REFUSED TO STATE

BY TELEPHONE WHY HE WANTED TO TALK TO GLADDEN AND HE REFUSED

TO COME TO GLADDEN'S RESIDENCE. WILSON SAID HE NEEDED TO

TALK ABOUT SOMETHING OF "NATIONAL URGENCY." THEY AGREED TO

MEET AT GLADDEN'S GIFT SHOP AT OCEAN SPRINGS AT 12:15 AM,

8/18/78• GLADDEN ADVISED HE TOOK HIS WIFE AND 18 YEAR OLD

SON, JOHN W. GLADDEN, TO THE SHOP WHERE HE MET WILSON AT

THE ABOVE TIME. WILSON ARRIVED ALONE, DRIVING AN OLD

MODEL BLUE CHEVROLET SEDAN WITH WHITE TOP, BEARING UNKNOWN

LOUISIANA TAG. WILSON APPARENILY HAD BEEN DRINKING INAS-

MUCH AS HIS EYES WERE VERY RED AND HE SMELLED OF ALCOHOL;

HOWEVER, HE DID NOT TALK LIKE AN INTOXICATED PERSON IN

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## Page 104

PAGE FIVE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

GLADDEN'S OPINION AND SEEMED TO BE "VERY DEPRESSED."

WILSON SAID "I'M THE MYSTERY MAN. I'M THE MAN THAT

MURDERED MARTIN LUTHER KING." THEY TALKED FOR APPROXIMATELY

ONE HOUR AND 15 MINUTES. WILSON STATED THAT HE GREW UP IN

GRENADA, MS., WHERE HIS FATHER WAS A BAPTIST MINISTER. THE

BLACKS REFERRED TO AS "NEGRES AND NIGGERS" BY WILSONS, WHO

LIVED IN THE AREA WERE WELCOMED TO WORSHIP AT THE CHURCH;

HOWEVER, WHEN THE NORTHERN BLACKS BEGAN TO COME DOWN SOUTH,

WILSON'S FATHER WELCOMED THEM INTO HIS CHURCH ONLY IF THEY

CAME TO WORSHIP AND NOT TO CAUSE TROUBLE. ACCORDING TO

WILSON, THE BLACKS HAD COME FOR TROUBLE AND IT WAS FOR THIS

REASON THAT HIS ATTITUDE BEGAN TO CHANGE TOWARD BLACKS.

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS, "I AM THE ONE THAT PULLED THE

TRIGGER. THERE WAS A CONSPIRACY. I WAS. THE LOGICAL ONE."

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS HE HAD "BEEN WITH THE GOVERNMENT

AND GOT INXOLVED IN SOME UNDECLARED WARS." CHE DID NOT

FURTHER ELABORATE; HOWEVER, GLADDEN RECALLED THAT WILSON

ONCE MENTIONED HE HAD BEEN IN THE AIR FORCE., WILSON CLAIMED

TO KNOW MARTIN LUTHER KING'S FATHER AND BROTHER AND STATED

HE GREW UP NEXT DOOR TO A COUSIN OF MARTIN LUTHER KING AND

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## Page 105

PAGE SIX JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFTO

"KNEW HIS ENTIRE FAMILY."

GLADDEN RECALLED THAI HE (GLADDEN HAD ONCE PURCHASED

A USED MUSTANG FOR HIS DAUGHTER. ON SEEING THE VEHICLE

WILSON REMARKED HE HAD ONCE PURCHASED A WHITE MUSTANG FOR

HIS DAUGHTER.

DURING THE CONVERSATION ON THE EARLY MORNING OF

8/18/78, WILSON STATED THAT HIS DAUGHTER HAD DRIVEN THE WHITE

MUSTANG TO MEMPHIS AT THE IIME OF THE KING KILLING. WILSON

COMMENTED THAI HE WAS IN MEMPHIS AT THAI TIME, BUT HAD

DOCUMENTED HIMSELF TO BE IN KANSAS CITY AS AN ALIBI. WILSON

STATED THAT JAMES EARL RAY WAS THE "FALL GUY." "RAY ONLY

SAW ME TWICE, BUT I KNEW HIM. RAY WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE

GOTTEN AWAY CLEAN. I'M SURPISED RAY HAS BROUGHT II ALL BACK

UP AGAIN BECAUSE HE WOULD HAVE HIS PAROLE IN TWO YEARS."

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT HE WOULD NOT SEE THEM

ANYMORE AFTER TONIGHT AND HE WANTED THEM TO HAVE ALL HIS

EXPENSIVE WATCH REPAIR EQUIPMENT.

WILSON, AGAIN REFERRING IO THE KING ASSASSINATION,

STATED, "IT WAS PART OF A GROUP CONSPIRACY." HE PROVIDED NO

FURTHER DETAILS STATING HE WOULD ONLY DEAL WITH THE

ww.09004._Dockd42080408.Rage 105m

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## Page 106

i .

PAGE SEVEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

"SHERIFF OF MEMPHIS (TENN.), WHO HE USED TO FLY WITH.

WILSON FELI THAT THE GOVERNMENT WANTED IT IO HAPPEN TO KING.

"I KNEW IT NEEDED TO BE DONE." WILSON DID NOT BELIEVE HE

WOULD HAVE TO SERVE MUCH TIME FOR HIS INVOLVEMENT, STATING

"I'M NOT SORRY I DID IT. THE NIGGERS ARE BETTER OFF."

LATER IN THE CONVERSATION WITH THE GLADDENS, WILSON SAID HE

WAS SORRY HE HAD DONE IT.

WILSON STATED HE HAD TALKED WITH THE MEMPHIS SHERIFF

BY PHONE AND WAS TO MEET HIM AT THE GULFPORI, MS., HOLIDAY

INN DURING THE MORNING OF 8/18/78. WILSON SPECULATED AS

TO WHETHER OR NOT HE WOULD BE PROVIDED WITH A IV IN HIS CELL

AND INDICATED HE PROBABLY WOULD BE GIVEN WORK AS AN

INSTRUCTOR OR REPAIRMAN OF WATCHES WHILE IN JAIL.

REVERTING TO THE KING ASSASSINATION, WILSON TOLD

THE GLADDENS THAI HE SHOT KING "NOT FROM 50 YARDS AWAY, BUT

50 FEET AWAY." HE WAS CLOSE ENOUGH TO SEE THE BULLET HIT

AND STATED SPECIFICALLY THAT "I SHOT THE SHIT OUT OF HIM AND

SAW IT FLY." WILSON NEVER MENTIONED TO GLADDEN THE TYPE OF

GUN HE ALLEGEDLY USED OR THE LOCATION FROM WHICH HE ALLEGEDLY

SHOT KING •

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. •

PAGE EIGHT JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

AT ONE POINT IN THE CONVERSATION WITH THE GLADDENS,

WILSON APPARENTLY FEELING A DISAPPROVING GLANCE FROM GLADDEN *S

18 YEAR OLD SON, WARNED THE SON HE HAD BETTER NOT INTERFERE.

CONCERNING THE UNIDENTIFIED MEMPHIS SHERIFF, WILSON

OFFERED TO FURNISH THIS INDIVIDUAL'S NAME AND TELEPHONE NO.

TO GLADDEN FOR VERIFICATION OF HIS REMARKS; HOWEVER, GLADDEN

REFUSED • WILSON SAID HE HAS "GONE THROUGH TEN YEARS OF HELL,

AND BECAUSE HE KILLED KING, IT RUINED 26 YEARS OF MARRIAGE;

HOWEVER, HIS CONSCIENCE ONLY STARTED BOTHERING HIM IN THE

LAST FEW YEARS.

APPARENTLY REFERRING TO A SKETCH OF KING'S KILLER,

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT IT WAS ALMOST AN EXACT LIKENESS

OF HIM AND BECAUSE IT WAS RECENTLY SHOWN ON IV, HE DECIDED

TO TURN HIMSELF IN. HE SAID HE HAS A SISTER IN FULTON, MS.

(NOT FURTHER IDENTIFIED), WHO TELEPHONED HIM IN OCEAN

SPRINGS TO SAY THAT THE SKETCH LOOKED JUST LIKE HIM. WILSON

TOLD THE GLADDENS THAT HE HAD TELEPHONED VARIOUS FAMILY

MEMBERS TO LET THEM KNOW HE WAS TURNING HIMSELF IN.

WILSON ALSO STATED THAT HE, AT ONE IIME, INTENDED TO

OPEN A WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN TUPELO, MS., BUT DECIDED

, NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 107

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## Page 108

PAGE NINE UN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

AGAINST IT BECAUSE OF THE TENSE RACIAL SITUATION.

WILSON ALSO ONCE TOLD MRS. GLADDEN THAT HE GETS "FLIGHT

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS" AT KEESLER AIR FORCE, BILOXI, MS.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT WILSON REPEATED HIMSELF MANY TIMES

DURING THE ONE HOUR AND FIFTEEN MINUTE CONVERSATION ON

8/18/78, BUT HE PROVIDED NO FURTHER DETAILS CONCERNING THE

KING ASSASSINATION, OTHER THAN THAI STATED HEREIN.

AT THE END OF THEIR CONVERSATION, GLADDEN ADVISED

WILSON DEPARTED THE STORE IN HIS AUTOMOBILE AND HEADED IN AN

EASTERLY DIRECTION. THE GLADDENS WERE AFRAID AND DISTURBED

AT THE CONVERSATION AND PROMPTLY TELEPHONED THE JACKSON FBI

OFFICE.

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT TO THE BEST OF HIS RECOLLECTION

DURING THE SHORT TIME HE AND HIS WIFE KNEW WILSON, HE NEVER

TALKED ABOUT HIS PAST, OTHER THAN TO MENTION THAT HE HAD

BEEN IN THE U.S. AIR FORCE; HAD BEEN MARRIED FIVE TIMES,

TWICE TO THE SAME WOMAN; HE GREW UP IN MISS.; AND HAD BEEN

ON THE GULF COASI LESS THAN THREE MONTHS. THE GLADDENS DO

NOT KNOW WHERE HE CAME FROM OR WHAT HE HAS DONE PRIOR TO HIS

ARRIVING AT THEIR PLACE OF BUSINESS 7/26/78.

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## Page 109

PAGE TEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

GLADDEN ADVISED THAT IN HIS REGULAR BUSINESS AS SOCIAL

SECURITY OFFICE MANAGER HE HAS PERSONAL DEALINGS ON A

FREQUENT BASIS WITH PEOPLE HAVING MENTAL PROBLEMS AND WHILE

HE IS NOT A QUALIFIED PERSON IN THIS FIELD, HE IS NOT OF THE

OPINION WILSON HAS MENTAL IMPAIRMENT. HE DESCRIBED WILSON

AS A WHITE MALE; 5 FT. 8 INCHES; 155 LBS; MEDIUM BUILD ;

RUDDY COMPLEXION; GRAYING HAIR; AGE 46, WHO LIKES TO DRINK

VODKA AND COKE.

ON 818/78, SHORTLY BEFORE NOON, WILSON TELEPHONICALLY

CONTACTED GLADDEN ADVISING THAT HE HAD BEEN BETRAYED, THAT

HE HAD BEEN IO GULFPORI, MS., HOLIDAY INN, ALONG WITH "THE

FATHER" (NOT FURTHER IDENTIFIED BY WILSON), WHERE HE HAD

SEEN PERSONS BELIEVED TO BE WITH THE FBI. HE WAS NOW BACK

AT HIS RESIDENCE WATCHING THE WINDOWS AND WOULD BLOW THE

HEAD OFF OF ANYONE WHO CAME, EXCEPT "THE FATHER."

ABOUT THREE HOURS LATER, MR. AND MRS. GLADDEN WERE

SURPRISED TO SEE WILSON WALK INTO THEIR GIFT SHOP, HE WAS

CLEAN SHAVEN AND NEAT. HE APPARENTLY HAD NOT BEEN DRINKING.

HE IMPLIED HE HAD BEEN IN TOUCH WITH THE FBI, BUT THEY WERE

NOT GOING TO DO ANYTHING TO HIM. HE HAD MADE SOME KIND OF

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PAGE ELEVEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

BARGAIN. HE NOW WANTED TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE AND ASKED

IF HE COULD KEEP HIS WATCH REPAIR BUSINESS IN THE BACK OF

GLADDEN•S STORE AS USUAL.

THE GLADDENS ADVISED WILSON THEY WERE SERIOUSLY

CONTEMPLATING SELLING THE BUSINESS AND HAD ALREADY CONTACTED

A REALTOR.

AT 6:28 PM, 8/18/78, FIVE FBI AGENIS ESTABLISHED

PHYSICAL OBSERVATION AT THE HOLIDAY INN, U.S. HIGHWAY 9D,

GLFPORT, MS.

AT APPROXIMATELY 6:45 PM, A 1970 PLYMOUTH BEARING JACKSON

COUNTY, MS., LICENSE JAH-637 STOPPED IN FRONT OF THE HOLIDAY

INN AND A WHITE MALE, WHO LATER ACKNOWLEDGED THAT HE WAS

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., EXITED THE VEHICLE AND ENTERED THE

HOLIDAY INN. THE WHITE MALE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE THEREAFTER

PARKED THE VEHICLE AND CAME TO THE ENTRANCE OF THE HOLIDAY

INN, WHERE HE WAS APPROACHED BY SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES AND

WAS ASKED IF HE WAS FATHER NOEL FANNON AND HE ACKNOWLEDGED

THAT HE WAS.

FATHER FANNON WAS ADVISED THAT GENE BARKSDALE, SHERIFF

OF SHELBY COUNTY, MEMPHIS, TENN., WAS NOT GOING TO MEET

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## Page 111

PAGE TWELVE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

WILSON. HE WAS ADVISED THAT AGENTS OF THE FBI WERE IN THE

MOTEL AND HE WAS REQUESTED TO TELL WILSON THAT THE SHERIFF WAS

NOT GOING TO MEET HIM; HOWEVER, THE FBI AGENTS VERE AT THE

MOTEL AND DESIRED IO TALK WITH HIM IF HE, WILSON, WOULD AGREE

TO TALK WITH THE AGENTS. FATHER FANNON STATED HE WOULD LIKE

TO TALK TO WILSON BECAUSE SHERIFF BARKSDALE HAD LIED ABOUT

HIS APPEARANCE IN GULFPORT •

FATHER FANNON THEREAFTER ENTERED THE MOTEL AND TALKED

WITH WILSON IN THE LOBBY. SHORTLY THEREAFTER, THEY BOTH

RETURNED TO THE SIDEWALK IN FRONT OF THE MOTEL AND SA GRAVES

IDENIIFIED HIMSELF TO WILSON AND ASKED HIM IF HE WERE BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON. HE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT HE WAS AND LATER STATED

HE WAS A JUNIOR.

WILSON WAS ADVISED THAT SHERIFF BARKSDALE WAS NOT THERE

TO MEET HIM, HOWEVER, FBI AGENIS WERE THERE AND DESIRED TO

TALK WITH HIM, PARTICULARLY ABOUT HIS DAUGHTER SUPPOSEDLY

HAVING DRIVEN A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY, MO., TO

MEMPHIS, TENN. HE STATED HE HAD NO INFORMATION TO FURNISH

THE FBI. WILSON INQUIRED AS TO WHETHER OR NOT HE WAS UNDER

ARREST AND HE WAS ADVISED HE WAS NOT UNDER ARREST.. WILSON

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## Page 112

PAGE THIRTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FIO

COMMENTED HE WAS NOT GOING TO GIVE ANYONE ANY TROUBLE. HE

WAS ASKED IF HE HAD ANY WEAPONS ON HIM AND HE STATED HE DID

NOT AND THAT SA GRAVES COULD SEARCH HIM IF HE SO DESIRED •

WILSON WAS THEN "PATTED DOWN" AND NO WEAPONS WERE FELT ON

HIS BODY.

WILSON COMMENTED THAT HE AND FATHER FANNON HAD BEEN

TO THE MOTEL AT 9:30 AM, 8/18/78, AND AGAIN AT 6:30 PM,

8/18/78, IO SEE SHERIFF BARKSDALE AND THE SHERIFF HAD LIED

TO THEM.

WILSON THEN ASKED FATHER FANNON IF HE WOULD DRIVE HIM

BACK TO THE PLACE HE HAD BEEN PICKED UP AND FATHER FANNON

AGREED TO DO SO.

WILSON WAS AGAIN ADVISED THAT FBI AGENTS WERE AT THE

MOTEL AND WERE STILL WILLING TO TALK TO HIM AND HE

REITERATED HE HAD NOTHING TO SAY TO THE FBI AND, AS HE

DEPARTED, COMMENTED THAT THE FBI IN THE PASI HAD HARASSED

HIS FATHER WITHOUT ANY EXPLANATION.

FATHER FANNON AND WILSON THEREAFTER LEFT THE AREA OF THE

HOLIDAY INN IN FATHER FANNON'S VEHICLE PROCEEDING EAST ON

HIGHWAY 90. A SURVEILLANCE WAS MAINTAINED ON THE VEHICLE.

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## Page 113

PAGE FOURTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

SHORTLY AFTER WILSON AND FATHER FANNON LEFT THE MOTEL,

JACKSON ASAC TELEPHONICALLY ADVISED THE GULFPORT RA THAT

INFORMATION HAD BEEN RECEIVED THAI NGIC REVEALED WILSON WAS

WANTED BY THE NEW BRAUNSFELS, TX., PD FOR PROBATION VIOLATION

ON A WARRANT ISSUED APRIL 18, 1978.

THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD WAS NOTIFIED OF THIS OUTSTANDING

WARRANT AND THE SURVEILLANCE OF FATHER FANNON'S VEHICLE WAS

MAINTAINED UNTIL THE VEHICLE ENTERED OCEAN SPRINGS, MS.

(APPROXIMATELY 15 MILES), AT WHICH TIME THE VEHICLE WAS

STOPPED BY OFFICERS OTHE OCEAN SPRINGS PD AND WILSON WAS

ARRESTED AT 7:35 PM, AND INCARCERATED IN THE OCEAN SPRINGS

JAIL.

WILSON WAS RIDING AS A PASSENGER IN A PLYMOUTH SEDAN .

• OWNED AND DRIVEN BY FATHER NOEL FANNON, PRIEST AT ST.

ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS. WILSON

AMITTED HIS FULL IDENTITY AS BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AND

WAS TAKEN TO THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD. HE DECLINED TO TALK TO

THE FBI.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, AT 9:17 PM, REV. NOEL FANNON,

PASTOR, ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 113

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## Page 114

PAGE FIFTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

MS., APPEARED AT THE OCEAN SPRINGS PD TO VISIT WILSON.

FATHER FANNON WAS INTERVIEWED, AT WHICH TIME HE ADVISED HE

FIRST MET WILSON THE MORNING OF AUGUST 18, 1978, WHILE EATING

BREAKFAST AT THE MASTER GRILL RESTAURANT, HIGHWAY 9D, OCEAN

SPRINGS. HE HAD NEVER SEEN WILSON BEFORE THIS TIME.

WILSON INDICATED HE WANTED TO CONFIDE IN FATHER FANNON

AND FOLLOWING THEIR CONVERSATION, THE NATURE OF WHICH

FATHER FANNON REFUSED TO DIVULGE, FANNON AGREED TO FOLLOW

WILSON IN THEIR AUTOMOBILES TO THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORT,

MS ., WHERE WILSON HAD TOLD FATHER FANNON HE WOULD MEET

SHELBY COUNTY, TENN., SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE. AFTER THE

MORNING MEETING IN GULFPORT DID NOT COME OFF, AND AT THE

URGING OF WILSON, FATHER FANNON PERSONALLY TELEPHONED

SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE IN MEMPHIS. DURING THEIR CONVERSATION,

SHERIFF BARKSDALE ASSURED FATHER FANNON HE WOULD PERSONALLY

FLY TO GULFPORT, MS., IN ORDER TO MEET WITH FATHER FANNON

AND WILSON AT 6:30 PM AT THE HOLIDAY INN.

FATHER FANNON ADVISED HE CANNOT COMMENT ON WILSON

PERSONALLY DUE TO THE SHORT LENGTH OF TIME HE HAD CONTACT

WITH THIS INDIVIDUAL. HE CONTINUED TO POLITELY REFUSE TO

NW 65994 Docld: 32989768 Page 114

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## Page 115

PAGE SIXTEEN JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

REVEAL THE NATURE OF WILSON'S CONFIDENCE IN HIM.

FATHER FANNON WAS ADVISED BY JACKSON SA IN BRIEF

CONCERNING WILSON'S REMARKS TO THE GLADDENS ABOUT HIS

INVOLVEMENT IN THE KING ASSASSINATION; HOWEVER, FATHER

FANNON REFUSED TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS ALSO HAD BEEN THE

SUBJECT OF WILSON'S CONFIDENCE IN HIM.

SAN ANTONIO DIVISION AT NEW BRAUNSFELS, TEXAS. CONTACT

NEW BRAUNSFELS PD AND ADVISED THEM OF WILSON'S INCARCERATION

AT OCEAN SPRINGS, MISS., PD, TELEPHONE 875-2211.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUING JACKSON DIVISION.

BT

SA 1

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## Page 116

DL0838 2312004Z

PP HQ ME JN SA

DE DL

P 192004Z AUG 78

FM JALLAS

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987) PRIORITY

JACKSON (INFO)

SAN ANTONIO (INFO)

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATIN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988 JEH. MURKIN.

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPES IO BUREAU 8/13/78 AND SAN ANTONIO

TELETYPE TO BUREAU 8/18/78°

O iN 8/19/78 BETTY LOU WADE, 233 SMIH RD. BURLESON, TEXAS WHO

IS FORMER WIFE OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, STATES SHE WAS MARRIED IO

WILSON ON 4/4/68 AND CAN POSITIVELY STATE WILSON WAS AT GRANDVIEW,

MISSOURI, THAT DATE AND COULD NOI. HAVE BEEN IN MEMPHIS, TEN.,

AS HE IS CLAIMING. SHE SAID THEY RESIDED AT AN UNRECALLED

ADDRESS ON HERRICK SI. AND WILSON HAD A JEVELRY BUSINESS AI

THE KAIZ DRUG STORE IN GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI: WADE SAID MR. KAIZ

SUBSQUENILY SOLD THE DRUG STORE AND THE BUSINESS WAS MOVED 10

BELTON, MISSOURI, WHERE IS WAS ESTABLISHED IN

A SMALL SHOPPING

CENTER UNDER THE NAME OF WILBUR'S JEWELRY.

62-544-37

AUG•: 1978

•JACKSUN

Butcan 1390

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## Page 117

PAGE TWO DALLAS UNCLAS E FI O

WADE SAID WILSON NEVER OWNED OR HAD ACCESS TO A WHITE

MUSTANG VEHICLE AND HER DAUGHTER DEBRA ANN JONES NEE WILSON

NEVER DROVE ANY VEHICLE FROM KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS,

TENVO, ON OR ABOUT 4/4/68.

WADE ADVISED SHE HAS BEEN DIVORCED FROM WILSON FOR OVER

•5 YEARS. SHE SAID WILSON HAS EXPERIENCED MENTAL PROBLEMS FOR

YEARS AND SHE

: DESCRIBED HIM AS A "LIAR AND CON ARTISI WHO CAN"T.

DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN TRUTH AND FANTASY". SHE SAID HE DEFINITELY

NEEDS MEDICAL HELP.

WADE SAID SHE HAS RECEIVED NUMEROUS THREATENING AND HARASSING

TELEPHONE CALLS FROM WILSON OVER THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS AND HAD HIM'

ARRESTED AI CELBURN, TEXAS INN 1976 FOR NON-CHILD SUPPORT

AND MARASSMENI. SHE SAID WILSON WAS COMMITTED TO A HOSPITAL AT NEW

BRAUNFELS, TEXAS IN 1974-1975 FOR HIS UNSTABLE MENTAL. CONDITION.

WADE STATES WILSON ALWAYS CARRIES A 38 CAL. PISTOL AND SHE WOULD

CONSIDER HIM! DANGEROUS.

SHE FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING LIST OF WILSON'S RELATIVES WHO CAN

SUBSTANIIATE HIS MENTAL CONDITION: SISTERS, LYDA MCGAHEY, 2002 EASI

8TH AVE. NORI, COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, TELEPHONE NUMBER 327-

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 117

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## Page 118

PAGE THREE DALLAS UNCLAS EFT O

1141, CHRISTINE GUNTHORP, ROUTE 1 BOX 36, FULTON, MISSISSIPPI;

BROTHER, ALLISON WILSON, REFORM!, ALABAMA; CHILDREN, STEPHEN

WAYNE WILSON, 3117 LIVINGSOON, FORI WORIH, TEXAS, TELEPHONE

NUMBER 923-9414, MARK

ANIMONY WILSON, 514 SOUTHEASI GARDENS, APT.

132, BURLESO, TEXAS, TELEPHONE NUMBER 295-2854, DEBRA ANN JONES;

2628

NEWBURG RD. LOT NUMBER 146 AI BELVDERE, ILLINOIS, TELEPHONE

NUMBER 543-9734.

DALLAS INDICES SEARCH NEGATIVE RE WILSON.

FURTHER LEADS BEING LEFT TO THE DISCRETION OF MEMPHIS.

BI

2311925Z JN

1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 118

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## Page 119

DL0888 23120547

PP HQ ME JN SA

DE DL

P 192054Z AUG 78

FIl JALLAS

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987) PRIORITY

JACKSON (INFO)

SAU: ANTONIO (INFO>

BT

UNCLAS E FIO

AIII CORGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988 JEH. MURKIN®

RE HEMPHIS TELETYPES TO BUREAU 3/18/78 AND SAN ANIONIO

TELETYPE TO BUREAU 8/18/78.

IS FORE 917E E BUY EOS MADE 236 OLE STATES SLESAS TEXAS IN TO

WILSOW ON A/4/68 AND CAN POSITIVELY STATE WILSON VAS AT CRANDVIEV,.

MISSOURI, THAT DATE AND COULD NOT HAVE BEEN IN MEMPHIS, TENN.,

AS HE IS CLAIMING. SHE SAID THEY RESIDED AT AU UNRECALLED

ADDRESS ON HERRICK SI. AND WILSON HAD A JEVELRY BUSINESS AT

THE KAIZ DRUG STORE IN GRANDVIEU, MISSOURI, WADE SAID MR. KAIZ

SUSSCUENTLY SOLD THE DRUG SIORE AND THE BUSINESS WAS MOVED TO

BELTOR, MISSOURI, WHERE IS WAS ESTABLISHED IN A SHALL SHOPPILG

CENTER UNDER THE NAME OF WILBUR'S JEVELRY.

62-544-37

250

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 119

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## Page 120

PAGE TUO DALLAS UNCLAS E F TO .

WADE SAID WILSON NEVER OUNED OR HAD ACCESS TO A WHITE

MUSTANG VEHICLE AND HER DAUGHTER DEBRA ANN JONES NEE WILSON

NEVER DROVE ANY VEHICLE FROM KARSAS CITY, MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS,

TEURO, ON OR ABOUT 4/4/68•

WADE ADVISED SHE HAS BEEN DIVORCED FROM WILSON FOR OVER

5 YEARS. SHE SAID WILSON HAS EXPERIENCED MENTAL PROBLEMS FOR

YEARS AND SHE DESCRIBED HIM AS A "LIAR AND CON ARTIST UHO CAN'T

DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN TRUTH AND FANTASY, SHE SAID HE DEFINITELY

NEEDS MEDICAL HELP.

WADE SAID SHE HAS RECEIVED NUMEROUS THREATENING AID HARASSING

TELEPHONE CALLS FROM WILSON OVER THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS AND HAD HIM

ARRESTED AT CELBURN, TEXAS IN 1976 FOR NON-CHILD SUPPORT

AND HARASSMENT. SHE SAID WILSON WAS CONMITTED TO A HOSPITAL AT NEW

BRAUNFELS, TEXAS IN 1974-1975 FOR HIS UNSTABLE MENTAL CONDITION

WADE STATES WILSON ALWAYS CARRIES A 38 CAL. PISTOL AND SHE WOULD

CONSIDER HIM DANGEROUS.

SHE. FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING LIST OF WILSON'S RELATIVES WHO CAN

SUBSTANTIATE HIS MENTAL CONDITION: SISTERS, LYDA MCGAHEY, 2002 EASI

8IH AVE. FORTH, COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, TELEPHONE NUMBER 327-

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 120

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## Page 121

PAGE THREE DALLAS UNCLAS E F TO

1141, CHRISTINE GUNTHORP, ROUTE 1 BOX 36, FULTON, MISSISSIPPI;

BROTHER, ALLISON WILSON, REFORM, ALABAMA; CHILDREN, STEPHEN

SAYNE VILSON, 3117 LIVINGSOON, FORT WORTH, TEXAS, TELEPHONE

NUMBER 923-9414, MARK ANTHONY WILSON, 514 SOUTHEAST GARDENS, APT.

132, BURLESOI, TEXAS, TELEPHONE NUNBER 295-2854, DEBRA ANN JONES,

2628 NEUBURG RD. LOI NUMBER 10G AT BELVDERE, ILLISOIS, TELEPHONE

NUMBER 543-9734°

DALLAS INDICES SEARCH NEGATIVE RE WILSON.

FURTHER LEADS BEING LEFT TO THE DISCRETION OF MEMPHIS.

2311925Z JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 121

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## Page 122

MEO 010 23165387 07007

PP HQ BH DL JN

P 1905307 AUG 78

FM MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M ) (P)

TO DIRECIOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

BIRMING HAM PRIORITY

DALLAS PRIORITY

JACKSON PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988 JEH.

MURKIN.

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPES TO BUREAU• AUGUST 18, 1978, NO COPIES

TO BIRMINGHAM OR DALLAS.

FOR THE INFORMATION OF BIRMINGHAM AND DALLAS, ON AUGUST 18,

1978, GENE BARKSDALE, SHERIFF, SHELBY COUNTY, TENN., ADVISED THAT ON

THE NIGHT OF AUGUST 17, 1978, HE RECEIVED 2 TELEPHONE CALLS

FROM BURGESS AUDIE WILSON. WILSON, WHO WAS FORMERLY IN THE

TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT AI MEMPHIS, TENN., WITH

BARKSDALE, INFORMED THE SHERIFF THAT HE HAD KILLED DR. MARTIN

LUTHER KING IN 1968 AT MEMPHIS ; THAT HIS DAUGHTER DROVE A WHITE

MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS 3 DAYS PRIOR TO

KING 'S DEATH AND WISHED TO SURRENDER TO

62-544-38

137

Butean 3,18

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 122

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## Page 123

PAGE TWO (ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS

SEFI O

BARKSDALE AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISS. ARRANGEMENTS WERE

MADE FOR WILSON AND COMPANION REV. NOEL FANNON, PASTOR, ST.

ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISS., TO APPEAR

AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISS., AT S:30 PM ON AUGUST 18,

1978, AT WHICH TIME THEY WERE TO BE CONTACIED BY SPECIAL

AGENTS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE. WILSON WAS CONTACIED BY SPECIAL

AGENIS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE; HOWEVER, HE DECLINED TO DISCUSS

INFORMATION REGARDING THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING

WITH THEM.

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, VERNON AND OPAL HOOTEN, 3095 RUSKIN

RD ., BARTLETT, TENN., THE FORMER FATHER-IN-LAW AND MOTHER-IN-LAW

OF WILSON, FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

WILSON AND THEIR DAUGHTER BETTY LOU, AGE 47, WHO NOW

RESIDES WITH HER PRESENT HUSBAND KEITH WADE AT 233 SMITH ST.,

BURLESON, TEXAS, WERE MARRIED IN THE 1940'S AND THE MARRIAGE

WAS TERMINATED BY DIVORCE IN ABOUT 1972 OR 1973. THE WILSONS

HAD 3 CHILDREN, DEBORAH ANN, AGE 28, WHO NOW RESIDES WITH HER

NOSE AND NABLEVEN, EST

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 123

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## Page 124

PAGE THREE (ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E FT O

WHOM RESIDE IN BURLESON, TEXAS, SPECIFIC ADDRESSES UNKNOWN•

WILSON HAS ONE BROTHER AL WILSON, WHO RESIDES IN REFORM, ALA •3

AND 2 SISTERS, LYDA MC GAHA, WHO RESIDES IN REFORM, ALA.,

AND CHRISTINE WILSON, MARRIED NAME NOT KNOWN, WHO RESIDES IN

FULTON, MISS. HIS PARENTS ARE DECEASED •

BURGESS AND BETTY LOU WILSON RESIDED IN MEMPHIS, TENN.,

AT VARIOUS TIMES, SPECIFIC PERIODS OF TIME NOT RECALLED, AT

KANSAS CITY, MO., AND CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. THEY MOVED TO

KANSAS CITY, MO., IN 1963 FROM MEMPHIS WHERE THEY OPERATED A

JEWELRY STORE. BETTY LOU WILSON LEFT BURGESS AT KANSAS CITY

AFTER THEY HAD RESIDED THERE 2 OR 3 YEARS AND RETURNED TO MEMPHIS.

WHILE RESIDING IN KANSAS CITY, M0., BURGESS PURCHASED A WHITE

MUSTANG AUTOMOBILE FOR HIS DAUGHTER DEBORAH. THE HOOTENS ARE

OF THE OPINION THAT THIS WHITE MUSTANG AUTOMOBILE WAS NEVER

TRANSPORTED TO MEMPHIS, TENN. AFTER BETTY LOU AND THE CHILDREN

LEFT KANSAS CITY AND RETURNED TO MEMPHIS, BURGESS FOLLOWED

AND THE FAMILY RESIDED IN MEMPHIS AS A FAMILY UNIT FOR A YEAR

OR 2 BEFORE MOVING TO CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. THE MARRIAGE WAS

TERMINATED IN CANYON LAKE, TEXAS, BY DIVORCE IN ABOUT 1972 OR

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 124

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## Page 125

PAGE FOUR ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E F T.O

1973. BURGESS WILSON WAS SELDOM GAINFULLY EMPLOYED BUT DID

FROM TIME TO TIME ATTEMPT TO OPERATE JEWELRY STORES AND WATCH

REPAIR SHOPS.

ON THE NIGHT OF AUGUST 17, 1978, VERNON HOOTEN RECEIVED A

TELEPHONE CALL FROM BURGESS AUDIE WILSON AT APPROXIMATELY

8:00 PM. WILSON ASKED GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HEALTH AND

WELFARE OF THE HOOTENS AND REMARKED THAT HE RESIDED IN NEW

ORLEANS, LA. WILSON FURNISHED NO. OTHER PERSONAL DATA REGARDING

HIMSELF AND THE PHONE CALL WAS TERMINATED AFTER THE LAPSE OF A

FEW MINUTES. ON AUGUST 18, 1978, VERNON HOOTEN TALKED WITH HIS

SON JAMES HOOTEN, WHO RESIDES AT 2081 ST. ELMO, MEMPHIS, AND HIS

SON INFORMED HIM THAT BURGESS WILSON HAD ALSO CALLED HIM ON

THE EVENING OF AUGUST 17, 1978. WHILE WILSON WAS TALKING WITH

EITHER JAMES HOOTEN OR HIS WIFE MARIE, HE REMARKED THAT HE HAD

KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968. JAMES AND MARIE HOOTEN

ARE OF THE OPINION THAT WILSON WAS EXAGGERATING AND DO NOT BELIEVE

THAT HE IN FACI PARTICIPATED IN THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING.

THE HOOTENS DESCRIBED WILSON AS A VERY HEAVY DRINKER;

HOWEVER, THEY POINTED OUT THAT WHEN DRINKING HE TALKS COHERENTLY

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 125

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## Page 126

PAGE FIVE ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E FT O

AND HIS MOVEMENIS DO NOT GIVE EVIDENCE THAT HE IS INTOXICATED •

HE IS A BOASTFUL TALKER AND OFTEN MAKES EXAGGERATED STATEMENTS

IN AN EFFORT TO IMPRESS PEOPLE WHO ARE LISTENING TO HIM. HE

HAS IN THE PAST BEEN PHYSICALLY ABUSIVE TOWARD HIS WIFE AND

CHILDREN AND ON ONE OCCASION HELD HIS FORMER WIFE'S HEAD UNDER

WATER IN THE BATHTUB FOR A CONSIDERABLE PERIOD OF TIME. HE

HAS MADE THREATS TO KILL VERNON HOOTEN AND HIS FORMER WIFE BETTY

DU WILSON. ON ONE OCCASION HE CHECKED IN THE VETERANS

ADMINISTRATION (VA) HOSPITAL AT MEMPHIS, TENN., DATE NOT

RECALLED, AND COMPLAINED OF A HEART ATTACK; HOWEVER, MEDICAL

EXAMINATION REVEALED NO HEART PROBLEM. ON ANOTHER OCCASION HE

CHECKED IN AT THE VA HOSPITAL AND COMPLAINED OF A CRIPPLED LEG

•AND AGAIN MEDICAL EXAMINATION REVEALED NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH

HIM • VERNON HOOTEN BELIEVES THAT WILSON WOULD FALSELY CONFESS

TO A CRIME IN ORDER TO HAVE A PLACE TO SLEEP AND EAT IF HE WAS

IN NEED OF FOOD AND SHELTER• IN THE OPINION OF THE HOOTENS,

WILSON IS A COMPULSIVE LIAR AND BOTH ARE OF THE OPINION THAT HE

HAD NOTHING WHATSOEVER TO DO WITH THE ASSASSINATION OF DR.

MARTIN LUTHER KING. THEY CANNOI RECALL SPECIFICALLY WHERE HE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 126

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## Page 127

PAGE SIX ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E F I O

RESIDED IN 1968 BUT ARE OF THE OPINION THAT HE DID NOI MAINTAIN

A RESIDENCE IN MEMPHIS AT THAT TIME. THEY DO NOT KNOW WHETHER

HE EVER OWNED OR POSSESSED A GUN OR OTHER WEAPON BUT ARE OF THE

OPINION THAT HE DID NOT •

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, JAMES HOOTEN, 2081 SI. ELMO, MEMPHIS,

TENN., FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

ABOUT 9:30 PM ON AUGUSI 17, 1978, BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

COMMONLY KNOWN AS BILL WILSON, CALLED JAMES HOOTEN STATING HE

WAS CALLING FROM CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. HE MADE GENERAL INQUIRIES

REGARDING THE HEALTH AND WELFARE OF JAMES HOOTEN AND HIS WIFE

MARIE, AND THEN HE REQUESTED HOOTEN TO CALL SHELBY COUNTY,

TENN., SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE FOR HIM. HOOTEN QUESTIONED HIM

REGARDING THE NATURE OF HIS REQUEST, AND WILSON TOLD HIM HE HAD

TELEPHONED BARKSDALE ON THE EVENING OF AUGUST 17, 1978, AND

MAD AN APPOINIMENI WITH HIM ON AUGUST 20, 1978, PLACE NOT

STATED • HE INFORMED HOOTEN HE HAD CALLED BARKSDALE AND WAS

MEETING WITH HIM TO SURRENDER HIMSELF BECAUSE HE SHOT AND KILLED

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968. HE WANTED HOOTEN TO CALL SHERIFF

BARKSDALE FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONFIRMING HIS, WILSON•S, IDENTITY

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 127

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## Page 128

PAGE SEVEN (ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E F I O

AND THE APPOINIMENT. HOOTEN REFUSED TO HONOR WILSON•S REQUEST

AND QUESTIONED HIS SINCERITY REGARDING HIS CLAIM FOR BOTH THE

KILLING AND THE APPOINTMENT WITH THE SHERIFF. WILSON INSISTED

HAD KILLED KING

PERSONALLY ABOUT

WHEN HE REALIZED HOOTEN WOULD NOT CALL THE SHERIFF AS HE

REQUESTED .

ACCORDING TO HOOTEN, WILSON IS AN EXTREMELY HEAVY DRINKER.

HE FEELS THAT WILSON WAS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL WHEN

CALLED AND THAT HIS HEAVY CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL HAS HAD AN

ADVERSE EFFECT ON HIS MIND. WILSON WAS AT ONE TIME PLACED IN AN

UNKNOWN HOSPITAL IN TEXAS BY HIS SON, STEVEN, TO HAVE HIM

TREATED FOR ALCOHOLISM. HOOTEN IS OF THE OPINION THAT WILSON

HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING BUT DUE

TO THE MENTAL DETERIORATION OF HIS MIND MAY BELIEVE HE DID.

HOOTEN IS NOT CERTAIN BUT BELIEVES WILSON WAS NOT IN THE

MEMPHIS AREA AT THE TIME DR. KING WAS KILLED •

DALLAS WILL CONTACT BETTY LOU WADE AT 233 SMITH ST .,

BURLESON, TEXAS, AND OBTAIN ALL PERTINENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 128

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## Page 129

PAGE EIGHT ME 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E F T O

REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON AS WELL AS THE ADDRESSES OF WILSON'S

CHILDREN DEBORAH ANN, STEVEN, AND MARK ANTHONY. STEVEN AND

MARK ANTHONY WILSON SHOULD BE INTERVIEWED FOR INFORMATION

AVAILABLE TO THEM REGARDING BURGESS WILSON AND APPROPRIATE

LEADS SHOULD BE SET FORTH REQUESTING INTERVIEW OF DEBORAH ANN

WILSON JONES, BELLEVIEW, ILL.

THE BIRMINGHAM OFFICE WILL INTERVIEW LYDA MC GAHA AND AL

WILSON AT REFORM, ALA., AND OBTAIN ALL PERTINENT INFORMATION

RE BURGESS WILSON FROM HIS BROTHER AND SISTER.

JACKSON WILL ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEW CHRISTINE

WILSON, MARRIED NAME NOT KNOWN, AT FULION, MISS., AND DEVELOP

ALL PERTINENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION RE BURGESS WILSON.

ALL OFFICES INTERVIEW RELATIVES OF WILSON RE VERACITY

OF HIS ALLEGATIONS AND PRESENCE IN MEMPHIS DURING THE

CRITICAL PERIOD (APRIL 4, 1968) AND IF WILSON HAS HISTORY

OF PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEMS.

ALL OFFICES NOTE THESE LEADS SHOULD BE GIVEN EXPEDITE

ATTENTION.

BT

:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 129

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## Page 130

M1E0 010 2316530 07057

PP HQ BH DL JD

• 190536Z AUG 78

FIJ MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M > (P)

TO DIRECIOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

BIRMING HAM PRIORITY

DALLAS PRIORITY

JACKSON PRIORITY

BT

UNGLAS E FIO

ATTI CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNII, ROOM 8988 JEH.

MURKIN.

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPES IO BUREAU AUGUST 18, 1978, NO COPIES

TO BIRMIIGHAI OR DALLAS.

FOR THE IUFORHATIOU OF BIRMINGHAN AND DALLAS, ON AUGUST 18,

1978, GENE BARKSDALE, SHERIFF, SHELBY GOUNTY, TENN., ADVISED THAI OL

THE NIGHE OF AUGUST 17, 1978, HE RECEIVED 2 TELEPHONE CALLS

FROM BURGESS AUDIE VILSON. WILSON, WHO VAS FORMERLY IN THE

TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT AT NEUPHIS, TEUM., WITH

BARKSDALE, INFORMED THE SHERIFF THAT HE HAD KILLED DR. MARTIN

LUTHER KING IN 1968 AT MEMPHIS ; THAT HIS DAUGHTER DROVE A WHITE

MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY MISSOURI, TO MEUPHIS 3 DAYS PRIOR IO

KING 'S DEATH AND WISHED TO SURRENDER TO

62-544-38

i:.:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 130

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## Page 131

PAGE TUO ME 44-1987 SUB M> UNCLAS E F T O

BARKSDALE AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORT, MISS * ARRAKGEVENTS VERE

MADE FOR VILSON AND COMPANION REV• NOEL FAUTON, PASTOR , STa

ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISS., TO APPEAR

AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISS•, AT 6:30 PM ON AUGUSI 18%

1978, AT UHICH TIME THEY VERE TO BE CONTACTED BY SPECIAL

AGENTS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE, WILSON WAS CONTACTED BY SPECIAL

AGETS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE; KOVEVER, HÉ DECLINED IO DISCUSS

INFORMATION REGARDING THE ASSASSINATIOU OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING

WITH THEM-

Of AUGUST 18, 1978, VERNON AND OPAL HOOTEN, 3095 RUSKIN

RD •, BARTLETT, IEIlI., THE FORMER FATHER-IN-LAW AND MOTHER-IN-LAW

OF WILSON, FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

WILSOU AND THEIR DAUGHTER BETTY LOU, AGE 47, WHO NOU

RESIDES WITH HER PRESENT HUSSAND KEITH MADE AT 233 SMITH ST *9

BURLESON, TEXAS, VERE BARRIED IN THE 1940°S AND THE MARRIAGE

WAS TERMIWATED BY DIVORCE IN ABOUT 1972 OR 1975, THE WILSONS

HAD 3 CHILDREN, DEBORAH ANN, AGE 28, WHO NOV RESIDES WITH HER

RICO JONES

* AGE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 131

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## Page 132

PAGE THREE (HE 44-1987 SUB MY UNCLAS E FIO

WHOM RESIDE IN BURLESON, TEXAS, SPECIFIC ADDRESSES UNKNOUS.

WILSON HAS ONE BROTHER AL WILSON, WIO RESIDES IN REFORM, ALA •

AID 2 SISTERS, LXDA MC GAHA, UHO RESIDES IN REFORU, ALA.,

AND CHRISTINE WILSON, MARRIED NAME NOT KHOVI, WHO RESIDES IN

FULTON, MISS• HIS PARENTS ARE DECEASED •

BURGESS ARD BETTY LOU WILSON RESIDED IN MEMPHIS, TEIN.,

AT VARIOUS TIMES, SPECIFIC PERIODS OF TIME NOT RECALLED, AT

KANSAS CITY, MO, AND CAWYON LAKE, TEXAS. THEY MOVED TO

KANSAS CITY, 10., IlI 1963 FROM HEMPHIS WHERE THEY OPERATED A

JEVELRY STORE • BETTY LOU WILSON LEFT BURGESS AT KANSAS CITY

AFTER THEY HAD RESIDED THERE 2 OR 3 YEARS AND RETURNED TO MEMPHIS

WHILE RESIDING IN KANSAS CITY, NO ., BURGESS PURCHASED A WHITE

MUSTARO AUTOMOBILE FOR HIS DAUGHTER DEBORAH. THE HOOTENS ARE

OF THE OPINION THAT THIS UHITE MUSTANG AUTONOBILE WAS NEVER

IRANSPORTED TO MEMPHIS, TENN. AFTER BETTY LOU AND THE CHILDREN

LEFT KANSAS CITY AD RETURNED TO MEMPHIS, BURGESS FOLLOUED

AND THE FAMILY RESIDED IN HEMPHIS AS A FAMILY UNII FOR A YEAR

OR 2 BEFORE MOVIKG TO CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. THE MARRIAGE VAS

TERMINATED IN CANYON LAKE, TEXAS, BY DIVORGE IN ABOUT 1972 OR

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 132

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## Page 133

:

PAGE FOUR QE 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E FT O

1973, BURGESS WILSON WAS SELDO GAINFULLY EMPLOYED BUT DID

FROM TINE TO TIME ATTEMPT TO OPERATE JEWELRY STORES AND WATCH

REPAIR SHOPS,

ON THE NIGHT OF ALGUST 17, 1978, VERNON HOOTEN RECEIVED A

TELEPHONE CALL FROM BURGESS AUDIE WILSON AT APPROXIMATELY

8:00 PM, WILSON ASKED GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HEALTH AND

VELFARE OF THE HOOTENS AND REMARKED THAT HE RESIDED IN NEW

ORLEANS, LA. WILSON FURNISHED NO OTHER PERSONAL DATA REGARDING

HIMSELF AND THE PHONE CALL WAS TERMINATED AFTER THE LAPSE OF A

FEU MINUTES, OIl AUGUST 18, 1978, VERNON FOOTEN TALKED WITH HIS

SOM JADES HOOTEN, WHO RESIDES AT 2681 SI • ELIO, MEMPHIS, AND HIS

SON INFORMED HIM THAT BURGESS WILSON HAD ALSO CALLED HIM ON

THE EVENING OF AUGUST 17, 1973. WHILE VILSOH VAS TALKING VITH

EITHER JANES MOOTEN OR HIS WIFE MARIE, HE REMARKED THAT HE HAD

KILLED DR - MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968+ JANES AND MARIE HOOTEN

ARE OF THE OPIWION THAT WILSON WAS EXAGGERATIEG AND DO NOI BELIEVE

THAT HE IN FACT PARTICIPATED IIS THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING.

THE KOOTENS DESCRIBED WILSON AS A VERY HEAVY DRINKER ;

HOVEVER, THEY POINTED OUT THAT WHEN DRINKING HE TALKS COHERENTLY

*

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 133

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## Page 134

PAGE FIVE (E 44-1987 SUB M) UNCLAS E FT O

AND HIS MOVEMETIS DO NOT GIVE EVIDENCE THAT HE IS INTOXICATED •

HE IS A BOASTFUL TALKER AND OFTEN HAKES EXAGGERATED STATEMENTS

IN AN EFFORT TO IMPRESS PEOPLE WHO ARE LISTENING TO HIM. KE

HAS IN THE PAST BEEN PHYSICALLY ABUSIVE TOUARD HIS WIFE AND

CHILDREN AUD OU ONE OCCASION HELD HIS FORMER WIFE*S HEAD UNDER

WATER IN THE BATHIUS FOR A COUSIDERABLE PERIOD OF TIE, ME

HAS MADE THREATS TO KILL VERNOU HOOTEI AID HIS FORMER WIFE BETTY

DU WILSON, ON ONE OCCASION HE CHECKED IN THE VETERANS

ADMINISTRATION (VA) HOSPITAL AT HENPHIS, TENN., DATE NOT

RECALLED, AND COMPLALNED OF A HEART ATTACK; HOVEVER, MEDICAL

EXAMINATION REVEALED NO HEARI PROBLEN. ON ANOTHER OCCASION HE

CHECKED IN AT THE VA HOSPITAL AND COMPLAINED OF A CRIPPLED LEG

AND AGAIN MEDICAL EXAVINATION REVEALED. NOTHING UAS URONG WITH

MI = VERNON HOOTEN BELIEVES THAT WILSON WOULD FALSELY CONFESS

IO A CRIME IN ORDER TO HAVE A PLACE IO SLEEP AND EAT IF HE WAS

IN NEED OF FOOD AND SHELTER. IN THE OPINIOU OF THE HOOTENS,

WILSON IS A COMPULSIVE LIAR AND BOTH ARE OF THE OPINION THAT HE

HAD NOTHING WHATSOEVER TO DO WITH THE ASSASSINATION OF DR.

MARIIN LUTHER KINS, THEY CANNOT RECALL SPECIFICALLY WHERE HE

-NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 134

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## Page 135

PAGE SIX QIE 44-1987 SUB M) UNGLAS E FI O

RESIDED IN 1968 BUT ARE OF THE OPINION THAT HE DID NOT MAINTAIN

A RESIDENCE IN MEMPHIS AT THAT TIME. THEY DO NOT KNOV WHETHER

HE EVER DUNED OR POSSESSED A GUI OR OTHER WEAPON BUT ARE OF THE

OPINION THAT HE DID NOT •

ON AUGUST 18, 1978, JAMES HOOTEN, 2081 ST, ELIO, NEUPHIS,

TENN., FURNISHED THE FOLLOVING INFORMATION:

• ABOUT 9:30 PIT ON AUGUST 17, 1978, BURGESS AUDIE NILSON,

COMMONLY KNOW AS BILL WILSON, CALLED JAMES HOOTEN STATING HE

VAS CALLING FROM GANYON LAKE, TEXAS. HE MADE GENERAL INQUIRIES

REGARDING THE HEALTH AND WELFARE OF JAMES HOOTEN AND HIS WIFE

MARIE, AND THEN HE REQUESTED HOOTEN TO CALL SHELBY COUNTY,

TENN., SHERIFF GENE BARKSDALE FOR HIM. KOOTEN QUESTIONED HIM

REGARDING THE NATURE OF HIS REQUEST, AND WILSON TOLD HIM HE HAD

TELEPHONED BARKSDALE ON THE EVEHING OF AUGUSI 17, 1978, AND

HAD AN APPOINIMENT WITH HIM ON AUGUST 20, 1978, FLACE NOT

STATED • KE INFORMED HOOTEN HE HAD CALLED BARKSDALE AND WAS

MEETING WITH HIM TO SURRENDER HIMSELF BECAUSE HE SHOT AND KILLED

DR , MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968. HE WANTED HOOTEN TO CALL SHERIFF

BARKSDALE FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONFIRMING HIS, WILSON*S, IDENTITY

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 135

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## Page 136

PAGE SEVEN (PE 44-1987 SUB 11) UNCLAS E F I O

AID THE APPOIIMENT • HOOTEN REFUSED TO HONOR WILSONS REQUEST

AND QUESTIONED HIS SINCERITY REGARDING HIS CLAIM FOR BOTH THE

KILLING ALD THE APPOINTMENT VITH THE SHERIFF. WILSON INSISTED

HAD KILLED

KING

PERSONALLY ABOUT

REV IOUSLY? "EE TERMISATESFT BACKSPALE

HE TERMINATED THE CALI

WHEN HE REALIZED HOOTEN WOULD NOT CALL THE SHERIFF AS HE

REQUESTED •

ACCORDING TO HOOTEN, WILSON IS AN EXTREMELY HEAVY DRINKER.

HE FEELS THAT WILSON WAS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOMOL. WHEN

CALLED AND THAT HIS HEAVY CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL HAS HAD AW

ADVERSE EFFECT ON HIS MIND. VILSON VAS AT ONE TIME PLACED IN AN

* UNKOUN HOSPITAL IN TEXAS BY HIS SON, STEVEN, TO HAVE HI

TREATED FOR ALCOHOLISM HOOTEN IS OF THE OPINION THAT WILSON

HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING BUT DUE

IO THE MENTAL DETERIORATION OF HIS MIND MAY BELIEVE HE DID •

HOOTEN IS NOT CERTAIN BUT BELIEVES WILSON WAS NOT IN THE

MEMPHIS AREA AT THE TIME DR. KING WAS KILLED.

DALLAS WILL CONTACT BETTY LOU WADE AT 233 SMITH SI •9

BURLESO!, TEXAS, AND OBTAIN ALL PERTINENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION

NW 65994 Docid:32989768 Page 136

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## Page 137

SATYAT +777574=755

PAGE EIGHT ME 44-1987 SUB M1) UNCLAS EFT O

REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON AS WELL AS THE ADDRESSES OF WILSON'S

CHILDREN DEBORAH ANN, STEVEN, AND MARK ANTHONY, STEVEN AND

MARK ANTHONY WILSON SHOULD BE INTERVIEVED FOR INFORMATION

AVAILABLE TO THEM REGARDING BURGESS WILSON AND APPROPRIATE

LEADS SHOULD BE SET FORTH REQUESTING INTERVIEW OF DEBORAH ANU

VILSON JOLES, BELLEVIEU, ILL.

THE BIRMINGHAM OFFICE WILL INTERVIEW LYDA MC GANA AND AL

VILSON AI REFORM, ALA*, AND OBTAIN ALL PERTINET INFORMATION

RE BURGESS WILSON FROM HIS BROTHER AND SISTER:

JACKSON WILL ATTEMPT TO LOCATE AND INTERVIEU CHRISTINE

WILSON, HARRIED NAME NOT KNOUN, AT FULTON, MISS•, AND DEVELOP

ALL PERTINENT BACKGROUED INFORMATION RE BURGESS VILSON.

ALL OFFICES INTERVIEV RELATIVES OF WILSON RE VERACITY

05 HIS ALLEGATIONS AND PRESENCE IN MEMPHIS DURING THE

CRITICAL PERIOD (APRIL 4, 1968) AND IF WILSON HAS HISTORY

OF PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEUS.

ALL OFFICES NOTE THESE LEADS SHOULD BE GIVE EXPEDITE

ATTENTION.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 137

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## Page 138

SAO105 2320235Z

00 HQ JN ME

DE SA

0 190235Z AUG 78 ,

FM SAN ANTONIO

(44-1242)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

NEMPHIS ( 44-1987 SUB 11) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFT O

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE JACKSON TELS TO SAN ANTONIO AUGUST 18, 1978.

INSTANI DATE JO ANN CHILDRESS, 113 MILL, SAN MARCOS, TX,

ADVISED SHE MET BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, UR., AKA BILL WILSON, AT

SAILER, IX, IN SEPTEMBER OF 1977, AND THEY WERE MARRIED IN

NOVEMBER OF 1977. THEY SEPARATED FEBRUARY 15, 1978 AND

DIVORCE FINALIZED APRIL 26, 1978. ON AUGUST 12, 1978 SHE RECEIVED

TELEPHONIC MESSAGE FROM WILSON INDICATING THAT HE WAS IN THE

SIATE OF TENNESSEE AND WAS INVOLVED IN A CAR

ACCIDENT. WILSON

STATED THAT AS A RESULT OF THIS ACCIDENI BOTH OF HIS LEGS WERE

AMPUTATED. CHILDRESS ADVISED THAT WILSON IS A "VERY 'CONINCING

LIAR AND A CON'

MAN" • HE HAS NEVER

MENTIONED

02.

DEAL SU - 39

"FARCHED

''KA

AUG- 1978

Dulear 3,43

Wants

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## Page 139

PAGE TWO SA 44-1242 UNCLAS EF I O

MARTIN LUTHER KING AND HAS NEVER DISPLAYED ANY HATRED OR

DISLIKE FOR MEMBERS OF THE BLACK RACE. ACCORDING TO CHILDRESS,

SHE BELIEVES THAT WILSON WAS IN THE U.S. ARMY DURING 1968, AND

WILSON HAS STATED THAT HE WAS A P.O•W. DURING VIETNAM CONFLICT.<

SHE IS AWARE THAT WILSON VISITED THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

HOSPITAL AI SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, BUI SHE

POSSESSES NO KNOWLEDGE OF HIM SUFFERING. FROM ANY PSYCHIAIRIC

PROBLEMS. BY A PREVIOUS MARRIAGE WILSON HAS 3 CHILDREN,

2 SONS, AND 1 DAUGHTER, LOCATIONS NOI KNOWN BY CHILDRESS.

CHILDRESS ADVISED THAT IT IS HER PERSONAL OPINION THAT

WILSON IS SICK AND SHE IS NOT IN THE POSTIION TO PROVIDE

ANY INFORMATION REGARDING HIS WHEREABOUTS IN 1968 OTHER THAN

THE FACI THAS HE DID MENTION THAT HE ONCE RESIDED IN MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE•

LEAD: • SAN ANTONIO AI SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, WILL ATTEMPT

TO VERIFY VISITS TO VEIERANS ADMINISTRATION HOSPITAL.

B T

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## Page 140

SAO 105

23202357

00 HQ JI ME

DE SA

0 193235Z AUG 78

FIL SAB ANTONIO

(44-)242)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33561) INMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) INUEDIATE

MEMPHIS < 44-1987 SUB M) INNEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE JACKSON TELS TO SAN ANTONIO AUGUST 18, 1978.

INSTANT DATE JO ANN CHILDRESS, 113 MILL, SAN MARCOS, IX,

ADVISED SHE WET BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRO, AKA BILL WILSON, AT

SATLER, TX, IN SEPTEVBER OF 1977, AND THEY VERE MARRIED IN

NOVEMBER OF 1977& THEY SEPARATED FEBRUARY 15, 1978 AND

DIVORCE FINALIZED APRIL 26, 1978. ON AUGUSI 12, 1978 SHE RECEIVED

TELEPHONIC MESSAGE FROM WILSON INDICATING THAT HE WAS IN THE

STATE OF TENESSEE AND WAS INOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT. WILSON

STATED THAI AS A RESULT OF THIS ACCIDENT BOTH OF HIS LEGS WERE

AMPUTATED. CHILDRESS ADVISED THAI VILSON IS A "VERY ° 544-39.

LIAR ALD A CON MAI!"• HE HAS NEVER MENTIONED THE DEATH OF

No Torn ominoanana Page i40

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## Page 141

5479999991

PAGE IWO SA 44-1242 UNCLAS E FIO

MARTIN LUTHER KING AID. HAS LEVER DISPLAYED AMY HAIRED OR

DISLIKE FOR MEMBERS OF THE BLACK NACE, ACCORDING TO CHILDRESS,

SHE BELIEVES THAT VILSO: VAS IN THE U. SO ARMY DURING 196S, AND

WILSO! HAS STATED THAT HE VAS A P.O.l'. DURING VIETNAI COUFLICT.

SHE IS AWARE THAT WILSON VISITED THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

NOSPITAL AI SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, BUT SHE

POSSESSES DO KHOULEDGE OF HIM SUFFERING FROU ANY PSYCHIATRIC

PROBLEMS. BY A PREVIOUS MARRIAGE VILSON HAS 3 CHILDREN,

2 SONS- AND 1 DAUGHTER, LOCATIONS NOI KIOUN BY CHILDRESS.

CHILDRESS ADVISED THAT IT IS HER PERSONAL OPINION THAT

WILSON IS SICK AND SHE IS NOT IN THE POSTIION TO PROVIDE

ANY INFORMATION REGARDING HIS WHEREABOUTS IN 1968 OTHER THAN

THE FACT THAI HE DID MENTION THAT HE ONCE RESIDED IN HEUPHIS,

TENIESSEE.

LEAD: SAN ANIONIO AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, WILL ATTEMPT

TO VERIFY VISITS TO VETERANS ADHINISTRATION HOSPIIAL..

A 1544 Docde94468 Page 141

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## Page 142

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• SECRET

0 CONFIDENTIAL

SEFTO

I CLEAR

Date

8/19/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

BIRMINGHAM IMMEDIATE

sent to all officia ra

HQ

DALLAS IMMEDIATE •

HOUSTON IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) IMMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS E F TO

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

FOR INFORMATION OF HOUSTON, ON AUGUST 18, 1978, GENE BARKSDALE,

SHERIFF, SHELBY COUNTY, TENNESSEE, ADVISED THAT ON THE NIGHT OF

AUGUST 17, 1978, HE RECEIVED TWO TELEPHONE CALLS FROM BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON. WILSON, WHO WAS FORMERLY IN THE TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL

GUARD UNIT AT MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, WITH BARKSDALE, INFORMED THE

SHERIFF THAT HE HAD KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968 AT

Slial Oka

- JACKSON

LCB/mae

(2) /100

In Old

62-544-40

Butead 31

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PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

MEMPHIS; THAT HIS DAUGHTER DROVE A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY,

MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS THREE DAYS PRIOR TO KING'S DEATH, AND WISHED

TO SURRENDER TO BARKSDALE AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE MADE FOR WILSON AND COMPANION REVEREND NOEL

FANNON, PASTOR, ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, TO APPEAR AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI,

AT 6:30 PM ON AUGUST 18, 1978, AT WHICH TIME THEY WERE TO BE CON-

TACTED BY SPECIAL AGENTS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE. WILSON WAS CON-

TACTED BY SPECIAL AGENTS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE; HOWEVER, HE DECLINED

TO DISCUSS INFORMATION REGARDING THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN

LUTHER KING WITH THEM.

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AKA BILL WILSON, WAS ARRESTED BY

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, POLICE DEPARTMENT, 7:35 PM, AUGUST 18,

1978, BASED ON PROBATION VIOLATOR WARRANT DATED APRIL 18, 1978,

ISSUED BY NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, POLICE DEPARTMENT. WILSON PRE-

SENTLY INCARCERATED OCEAN SPRINGS POLICE DEPARTMENT. OCEAN SPRINGS

POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN IN CONTACT WITH NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS,

POLICE DEPARTMENT, AND THE LATTER DESIRES HIS RETURN TO TEXAS.

WILSON CONTACTED AM, AUGUST 19, 1978, BY FBI AND FURNISHED

FOLLOWING BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

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--

PAGE 3 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

HE WAS BORN ON AUGUST 28, 1931, AT FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, AND

RESIDED WITH HIS FAMILY AT GOLDEN, MISSISSIPPI, UNTIL 1936, WHEN

THEY MOVED TO ELDRIDGE, ALABAMA, WHERE HE WENT TO SCHOOL UNTIL THE

EIGHTH GRADE AND THEN WENT TO CARBON HILL, ALABAMA, HIGH SCHOOL,

UNTIL 1947.

ON MAY 2, 1947, HE ENTERED U. S. AIR FORCE AND WAS DISCHARGED

1950. AFTER BEING OUT OF THE AIR FORCE FOR APPROXIMATELY EIGHT

MONTHS, HE WAS RECALLED INTO THE KOREAN WAR UNTIL HE WAS GIVEN AN

HONORABLE DISCHARGE FEBRUARY, 1960.

HE AND HIS WIFE, BETTY LOU WILSON, MOVED TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE,

FOLLOWING HIS DISCHARGE AND WORKED FOR PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE COMPANY

FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR. AFTER LEAVING PRUDENTIAL, HE OPERATED

A LAUNDRY AND CLEANING BUSINESS IN MEMPHIS. DURING THIS TIME HE WAS

ALSO IN THE TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL GUARD.

HE LEFT MEMPHIS, WENT TO GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, WHERE HE BECAME

A CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEE IN THE AIR FORCE RESERVE AND REMAINED WITH

THE RESERVE UNTIL 1970. ALSO, FROM 1966 UNTIL 1970, HE OPERATED A

JEWELRY STORE BUSINESS.

IN 1970, HE AND WIFE BETTY WILSON MOVED TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE,

AND OPENED A JEWELRY BUSINESS IN BARTLETT, TENNESSEE. IN ADDITION

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TO JEWELRY BUSINESS, HE BUILT ALUMINUM STORAGE BUILDINGS, BUT IN

JUNE, 1970, HIS BUSINESS WAS DESTROYED BY A TORNADO.

HE THEN WENT TO SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, AND BECAME EMPLOYED BY

AIR FORCE RESERVE AS A FLIGHT ENGINEER. HE ALSO OPERATED A JEWELRY

STORE IN SAN ANTONIO UNTIL 1974, AND AT THIS TIME HE AND HIS WIFE,

BETTY, WERE DIVORCED. HE THEN MOVED TO MOUNTAIN HOME, ARKANSAS,

OPENED A JEWELRY STORE, AND MARRIED AVIS LEA HUNTER. HE WAS MARRIED

FOR APPROXIMATELY SIX MONTHS AND THEY WERE DIVORCED. SHE NOW

RESIDES AT 1010 HICKORY HILL LANE, HERMITAGE, TENNESSEE. HE THEN

WENT TO COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, WHERE HE WORKED IN THE GUBERNATORIAL

CAMPAIGN FOR GOVERNOR CLIFF FINCH. WHILE IN COLUMBUS, HE MARRIED

PATRICIA SHINDALA OF STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI. DURING THE GUBERNA-

TORIAL CAMPAIGN IT WAS SUGGESTED HE TELL PEOPLE HE WAS A RETIRED

COLONEL AND AN EX-PRISONER OF WAR. HE LEFT COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI,

JANUARY, 1976, WENT TO TYLER, TEXAS, AND STAYED WITH LARRY HUGHEY,

A FRIEND. HE WENT TO TEXAS FOR PURPOSE OF CLEARING UP SOME CHARGES

AGAINST HIM AT NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS. HE WENT TO DALLAS, TEXAS,

TO SEE A FRIEND, AND WHILE THERE CALLED HIS SON, AND SHORTLY THERE-

AFTER POLICE ARRIVED AND ARRESTED HIM ON CHARGE OF NON CHILD SUPPORT

ON A WARRANT ISSUED FOR HIM AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS. HE WAS RELEASED

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PAGE 5 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F TO

TO AUTHORITIES FROM NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, WHERE HE PLED GUILTY TO A

CHARGE OF THEFT BY CHECK AND RECEIVED A SENTENCE OF EIGHT YEARS

PROBATION. HE THEN STAYED IN VICINITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS WHERE HE

WAS INVOLVED IN CONSTRUCTION WORK. HE HAD AN ALTERCATION WITH AN

EMPLOYEE AND WAS ARRESTED FOR VIOLATION OF HIS PROBATION BUT WAS

RELEASED A COUPLE OF WEEKS LATER. HE CONTINUED WORKING AROUND NEW

BRAUNFELS AND WAS AGAIN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF STOLEN MERCHAN-

DISE, BUT THE CHARGES WERE LATER DROPPED. HE CONTINUED IN CONSTRUC-

TION BUSINESS AND MARRIED JO ANN CHILDRESS AND WAS DIVORCED AFTER

THREE MONTHS. IN JANUARY, 1978, HE DEPARTED FOR HOUMA, LOUISIANA,

AND WORKED FOR LOUISIANA OFF-SHORE CATERERS UNTIL APRIL, 1978,

WHEN HE WENT TO WORK FOR GULF COAST CATERERS OF NEW IBERIA,

LOUISIANA, WHERE HE REMAINED UNTIL THE END OF JUNE, 1978. HE

CAME TO OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, AND OPENED A JEWELRY SHOP AND

RESIDED AT TWIN PINES APARTMENTS IN OCEAN SPRINGS FOR THE FIRST

THREE WEEKS THEN MOVED TO ROUTE 6, BOX 387.

WILSON IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AKA BILL; DOB AUGUST 28, 1931;

POB FULTON, MISSISSIPPI; 5 FEET 11 INCHES; 170 POUNDS; BROWN EYES;

GRAY HAIR; SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER 422-34-1275; HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE;

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PAGE 6 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E E TO

MILITARY SERVICE, U. S. AIR FORCE, 1947 - 1960; FATHER BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, SR. (DECEASED), GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI; MOTHER MITTIE

DALE (DECEASED); STEPMOTHER LILLIE MAE WILSON (DECEASED), GRENADA,

MISSISSIPPI; BROTHER ALLISON TOWERS WILSON, REFORM, ALABAMA;

SISTER LYDA MC GAHEY, 2002 EAST EIGHTH AVENUE NORTH, COLUMBUS,

MISSISSIPPI; SISTER CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE, FULTON, MISSISSIPPI;

EX-WIFE BETTY LOU WILSON WADE, BURLESON, TEXAS; EX-WIFE AVIS LEA

HUNTER, 1010 HICKORY HILL LANE, HERMITAGE, TENNESSEE; EX-WIFE

PATRICIA SHINDALA, STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI (BELIEVED KILLED IN

CAR ACCIDENT); EX-WIFE JO ANN CHILDRESS, 113 MILL STREET, SAN

MARCOS, TEXAS; DAUGHTER DEBORAH ANN JONES, HUSBAND CHARLES,

BELVEDERE, ILLINOIS; SON STEVEN WAYNE WILSON, BURLESON, TEXAS;

SON MARK ANTHONY WILSON, BURLESON, TEXAS.

BIRMINGHAM REQUESTED TO INTERVIEW ALLISON TOWERS WILSON,

BROTHER, REFORM, ALABAMA.

DALLAS INTERVIEW BETTY LOU WILSON WADE, EX-WIFE, BURLESON,

TEXAS, AND SONS STEVEN WAYNE WILSON AND MARK ANTHONY WILSON. IF

NOT ALREADY DONE, ASCERTAIN WHEREABOUTS OF DEBORAH ANN JONES,

DAUGHTER, FOR IMMEDIATE INTERVIEW, WHO IS REPORTEDLY RESIDING IN

EITHER BELVEDERE OR BELLVIEW, ILLINOIS.

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Fp's. (Rer. 3-24-77)

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PAGE 7 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F TO

HOUSTON REVIEW POLICE RECORDS AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS, FOR FULL

DETAILS OF NON CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT ISSUED BY THAT DEPARTMENT

AGAINST WILSON.

MEMPHIS INTERVIEW AVIS LEA HUNTER, EX- WIFE.

SAN ANTONIO INTERVIEW JO ANN CHILDRESS, EX-WIFE, AND ALSO

REVIEW RECORDS AT THE AIR FORCE RESERVE CENTER.

ALL OFFICES INTERVIEW RELATIVES OF WILSON FOR FULL BACKGROUND

INFORMATION AND VERACITY OF HIS ALLEGATION THAT HE KILLED DR.

MARTIN LUTHER KING. DETERMINE HIS WHEREABOUTS DURING THE CRITICAL

PERIOD OF APRIL 4, 1968, AND IF WILSON MAY HAVE HAD A HISTORY OF

PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEMS. ALL LEADS SHOULD BE HANDLED IMMEDIATELY

AND KEEP FBIHQ, MEMPHIS, AND JACKSON APPRISED.

INTERVIEW OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., CONTINUING AT

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, CONCERNING ASSASSINATION.

BT

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JNO501 2311925Z

00 HQ BH DL HO ME SA

DE JN

0 191925Z AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

BIRMINGHAM IMMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDIATE

HOUSTON IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

SAN ANIONIO (44-1242) IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS EFTO

AITENIION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

FOR INFORMATION OF HOUSTON, ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, GENE BARKSDALE,

SHERIFF, SHELBY COUNTY, TENNESSEE, ADVISED THAI ON IHE NIGHI OF

AUGUSI 17, 1978, HE RECEIVED TWO TELEPHONE CALLS FROM BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON. WILSON, WHO WAS FORMERLY IN THE TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL

GUARD UNIT AT MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, WITH BARKSDALE, INFORMED THE

SHERIFF THAT HE HAD KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING IN 1968 AT

62-544-40

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•...PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F

MEMPHIS; THAI HIS DAUGHTER DROVE A WHITE MUSTANG FROM KANSAS CITY,

MISSOURI, TO MEMPHIS THREE DAYS PRIOR TO KING'S DEATH, AND WISHED

TO SURRENDER IO BARKSDALE AI THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISSISSIPRI.

ARRANGEMENIS WERE MADE FOR WILSON AND COMPANION REVEREND NOEL

FANNON, PASTOR, SI. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, TO APPEAR AT THE HOLIDAY INN, GULFPORI, MISSISSIPPI,

AT 6:30 PM ON AUGUSI 18, 1978, AI WHICH TIME THEY WERE IO BE CON-

TACTED BY SPECIAL AGENTS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE. WILSON WAS CON-

TACTED BY SPECIAL AGENIS OF THE JACKSON OFFICE; HOWEVER, HE DECLINED

TO DISCUSS INFORMATION REGARDING THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN

LUTHER KING WITH THEM.

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRO, AKA BILL WILSON, WAS ARRESTED BY

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, POLICE.

• DEPARTMENT, 7:35 PM, AUGUSI 18,

1978, BASED ON PROBATION VIOLATOR WARRANI DATED APRIL 18, 1978,

ISSUED BY NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, POLICE DEPARIMENI. WILSON PRE-

SENTLY INCARCERATED OCEAN SPRINGS POLICE DEPARIMENT. OCEAN SPRINGS

POLICE DEPARIMENT HAS BEEN IN CONTACI WITH NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS?

POLICE DEPARIMENT; AND THE LATTER DESIRES HIS RETURN TO TEXAS.

WILSON CONTACTED AM, AUGUST 19, 1978, BY FBI AND FUR VISHED

FOLLOWING BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

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PAGE 3 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

HE WAS BORN ON AUG USI 28, 193L, AI FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, AND

RESIDED WITH HIS FAMILY AT GOLDEN, MISSISSIPPI, UNTIL 1936, WHEN

THEY MOVED TO ELDRIDGE, ALABAMA, WHERE HE WENT TO SCHOOL UNTIL THE

EIGHTH GRADE AND. THEN WENT TO CARBON HILL, ALABAMA, HIGH SCHOOL,

UNTIL 1947°

ON MAY 2, 1947, HE ENTERED U. S. AIR FORCE AND WAS DISCHARGED

1950. AFTER BEING OUT OF THE AIR

FORCE FOR APPROXIMATELY EIGHT

MONIHS, HE WAS RECALLED INTO THE KOREAN WAR UNTIL HE WAS GIVEN AN

HONORABLE DISCHARGE FEBRUARY, 1960.

HE AND HIS WIFE, BETTY LOU WILSON, MOVED TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE,

FOLLOWING HIS DISCHARGE AND WORKED FOR PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE COMPANY

FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR. AFTER LEAVING PRUDENTIAL, HE OPERATED

A LAUNDRY AND CLEANING BUSINESS IN MEMPHIS. DURING THIS IIME HE WAS

ALSO IN THE TENNESSEE AIR NATIONAL GUARD.

HE LEFT MEMPHIS, WENI TO GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, WHERE HE BECAME

A CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEE IN THE AIR FORCE RESERVE AND REMAINED WITH

THE RESERVE UNTIL 1970. 'ALSO, FR OM 1966 UNTIL 1970, HE OPERATED A

JEWELRY STORÉ BUSINESS.

• IN 197O, HE AND WIFE BETTY WILSON MOVED IO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE,

• AND OPENED A JEWELRY BUSINESS IN BARTLETT, TENNESSEE. IN ADDITION

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 151

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PAGE 4 UN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

TO JEWELRY BUSINESS, HE BUILT ALUMINUM SIORAGE BUILDINGS, BUT IN

JUNE, 1970, HIS BUSINESS WAS DESTROYED BY A TORNADO.

HE THEN WENI TO SAN ANIONIO, TEXAS, AND BECAME EMPLOYED BY

AIR FORCE RESERVE AS A FLIGHI ENGINEER. HE ALSO OPERATED A JEWELRY

STORE IN SAN ANTONIO UNTIL 1974, AND AI THIS TIME. HE AND HIS WIFE,

BETTY, WERE DIVORCED: HE THEN MOVED IO MOUNTAIN HOME, ARKANSAS,

OPENED A JEWELRY STORE, AND MARRIED AVIS LEA HUNTER. HE WAS MARRIED

FOR APPROXILIATELY SIX MONTHS AND THEY WERE DIVORCED. SHE NOW

RESIDES AI 1010 HICKORY HILL LANE, HERMITAGE, TENNESSEE. HE THEN

WENT TO COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, WHERE HE WORKED IN THE GUBERVATORIAL

CAMPAIG IN FOR GOVERNOR CLIFF FINCH. WHILE IN COLUNBUS, HE MARRIED

PATRICIA SHINDALA OF STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI. DURING THE GUBERNA-

TORIAL CAMPAIGN IT WAS SUGGESTED HE TELL PEOPLE HE WAS A RETIRED

COLONEL AND ANNEX-PRISONER OF WAR. HE LEFI COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI,

JAVUARY, 1976, WENT TO TYLER, TEXAS, AND STAYED WITH LARRY HUGHEY,

A FRIEND. HE WENT TO TEXAS FOR PURPOSE OF CLEARING UP SOME CHARGES

AGAINST HIM AT NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS. HE WENI TO DALLAS, TEXAS,

TO SEE A FRIEND, AND WHILE THERE CALLED HIS SON, AND SHORTLY THERE-

AFTER POLICE ARRIVED AND ARRESTED HIM ON CHARGE OF NON CHILD SUPPORT

ON A WARRANT ISSUED FOR HIM AI CLEVELAND, TEXAS. HE WAS RELEASED

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PAGE 5 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

IO AUTHORITIES FROM NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, WHERE HE PLED GUILTY TO A

CHARGE OF THEFT BY CHECK AND RECEIVED A SENTENCE OF EIGHT YEARS

PROBATION. HE THEN STAYED IN VICINITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS WHERE HE

WAS INVOLVED IN CONSTRUCTION WORK. HE HAD AN ALTERCATION WITH AN

EMPLOYEE AND WAS ARRESTED FOR VIOLATION OF HIS PROBATION BUT WAS

RELEASED A COUPLE OF WEEKS LATER. HE CONTINUED WORKING AROUND NEW

BRAUNFELS AND WAS AGAIN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF STOLEN MERCHAN-

' DISE, BUT THE CHARGES WERE LATER DROPPED. HE CONTINUED II CONSTRUC-

TION BUSINESS AND MARRIED JO ANN CHILDRESS AND

WAS, DIVORCED AFTER

•THREE MONIAS. IN JANUARY, 1978, HE DEPARTED FOR HOUMA, LOUISIANA,

AND WORKED FOR LOUISIANA OFF-SHORE CATERERS UNTIL APRIL, 1978,

WHEN HE WENT TO WORK FOR GULF COAST CATERERS OF NEV IBERIA,

LOUISIANA, WHERE HE REMAINED UNTIL THE END OF JUNE, 1978. HE

CAME TO OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, AND OPENED A JEWELRY SHOP AND

RESIDED AT TWIN PINES APARIMENIS IN OCEAN SPRINGS FOR THE FIRST .

IHREE WEEKS THEN

MOVED TO ROUTE 6, BOX 357:

WILSON IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AKA BILL; DOB AUGUSI 28, 193L;

POB FULTON, MISSISSIPPI; 5 FEET 11 INCHES; 178 POUNDS; BROWN EYES;

GRAY HAIR; SOCIAL SECURITY NUNBER 422-34-1275; HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE;

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PAGE 6 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

MILITARY SERVICE, U.S. AIR FORCE, 1947 - 1960; FATHER BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, SR. (DECEASED), GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI; MOTHER MITTIE

DALE (DECEASED); STEPMOTHER LILLIE MAE WILSON (DECEASED), GRENADA,

MISSISSIPPI; BROTHER ALLISON TOWERS WILSON, REFORM, ALABAMA;

SISTER LYDA MC GAHEY, 2002 EAST EIGHTH AVENUE NORTH, COLUMBUS,

MISSISSIPPI; SISTER CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE, FULTON, MISSISSIPPI;

Ex-WIFE BETTY LOU WILSON WADE, BURLESON, TEXAS; EX-WIFE AVIS LEA

HUNTER, 1010 HICKORY HILL LANE, HERMITAGE, TENNESSEE;, EX-WIFE

PATRICIA SHINDALA, STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI BELIEVED KILLED IN

CAR ACCIDENT); EX-WIFE JO ANN CHILDRESS, 113 MILL STREET, SAN

MARCOS, TEXAS; DAUGHTER DEBORAH ANN JONES, HUSBAND CHARLES,

BELVEDERE, ILLINOIS; SON STEVEN VAYNE WILSON, BURLESON, TEXAS;

SON MARK ANTHONY WILSON, BURLESON, TEXAS.

BIRMINGHAM REQUESTED TO INTERVIEW ALLISON TOWERS WILSON,

BROTHER, REFORM, ALABAMA.

DALLAS INTERVIEW BETTY LOU WILSON WADE, EX-WIFE, BURLESON,

TEXAS, AND SONS STEVEN WAYNE WILSON AND MARK ANTHONY WILSON. IF

¡NOI ALREADY DONE, ASCERTAIN WHEREABOUTS

OF DEBORAH ANN J ONES,

DAUGHTER, FOR IMMEDIATE INTERVIEW, WHO IS REPORTEDLY RESIDING IN

EITHER BELVEDERE OR BELLVIEW, ILLINOIS.

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## Page 155

;..

PAGE 7 JW 62-544 UNCLAS E F.I O

HOUSTON REVIEW POLICE RECORDS AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS, FOR FULL

DETAILS OF NON CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT ISSUED BY THAT DEPARTMENI.

AGAINST WILSON.

MEMPHIS INTERVIEW AVIS LEA HUNTER, EX- WIFE.

SAN ANTONIO INTERVIEW JO AN CHILDRESS, EX-WIFE, AND ALSO

REVIEW RECORDS AT THE AIR FORCE RESERVE CENTER •

ALL OFFICES INTERVIEW RELATIVES OF WILSON FOR FULL BACKGROUND

INFORMATION AND VERACITY OF HIS ALLEGATION THAT HE KILLED DR.

MARTIN LUTHER KING. DETERMINE HIS WHEREABOUTS DURING THE CRITICAL

PERIOD OF APRIL 4, 1968, AND IF WILSON MAY HAVE HAD A HISTORY OF

PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEMS. ALL LEADS SHOULD BE HANDLED IMMEDIATELY

AND KEEP FBIHQ, MEMPHIS, AND JACKSON APPRISED.

INTERVIEW. OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., CONTINUING AT

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, CONCERNING ASSASSINATION.

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FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

BIRMINGHAM IMMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS E F TO

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., INMATE, OCEAN SPRINGS CITY JAIL,

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, WAS INTERVIEWED BY FBI AGENTS, AUGUST

19, 1978, REGARDING HIS ALLEGED KNOWLEDGE AND INVOLVEMENT IN THE

ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING AFTER HAVING WAIVED HIS

RIGHTS, AND HE FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

WILSON ADVISED THAT THE TIME PRIOR TO THE MURDER OF MARTIN

LUTHER KING, HE WAS LIVING IN GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, IN A HOUSE ON

I- JACKSON

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BYERS ROAD WITH HIS WIFE, BETTY LOU, AND HIS THREE CHILDREN,

DEBORAH, STEVE, AND MARK.

HE WAS IN THE AIR FORCE RESERVE AND ALSO

OPERATED A JEWELRY STORE.

IN THE COURSE OF HIS JEWELRY BUSINESS, HE MET A WHITE MALE

ITALIAN WHO WAS IN HIS LATE SIXTIES AND WAS APPROXIMATELY 5 FEET 9

INCHES TALL, WEIGHED APPROXIMATELY 230 POUNDS, AND WHO OPERATED A

JEWELRY TRADE SHOP ON WALNUT STREET. HE STATED THAT THIS WHITE

MALE INTRODUCED HIM TO ANOTHER WHITE MALE ITALIAN BY THE NAME OF

MITCH (LNU), WHO WAS IN HIS MID FIFTIES AND WAS APPROXIMATELY

5 FEET 10 INCHES TALL, AND WEIGHED APPROXIMATELY 190 POUNDS, WHO

HAD BLACK, WAVY HAIR AND HAD SOME CONNECTION WITH A BONDING

COMPANY, AND ALSO MITCH'S BROTHER, NAME NOT RECALLED, WHO FIT THE

SAME PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION AS MITCH, BUT WHO HAD NUMEROUS CUT SCARS

ON HIS FACE.

HE STATED THAT MITCH STARTED DELIVERING JEWELRY TO HIM FOR

THE PURPOSE OF HAVING THE STONES REMOVED FROM THE FITTINGS. HE

STATED MITCH USUALLY MET HIM AT A BAR ON WALNUT STREET WHICH WAS

RUN BY A WHITE FEMALE AND IT ALSO APPEARED THAT MITCH MIGHT HAVE

BEEN A PART OWNER OR HAD AN INTEREST IN THIS BAR. HE STATED THAT

DUE TO THE VOLUME OF JEWELRY THAT MITCH WAS BRINGING TO HIM, HE

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ASKED MITCH ABOUT IT, AND MITCH ADVISED HIM THAT IT WAS STOLEN

JEWELRY. MITCH TOLD HIM, HOWEVER, THAT HE, WILSON, WAS IN AS DEEP

AS HE, MITCH, WAS AND THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO CONTINUE WORKING WITH

MITCH. HE STATED THIS RELATIONSHIP WITH MITCH CONTINUED UNTIL

1970.

HE STATED THAT MITCH BROUGHT UP THE IDEA OF KILLING KING AND

SAID THAT THERE WAS A $50,000 CONTRACT ON HIM. HOWEVER, HE NEVER

SAID WHO PUT OUT THE CONTRACT BUT SAID THAT HE COULD GET THE MONEY

FOR WILSON IF HE KILLED KING.

WILSON STATED THAT MITCH WAS WELL AWARE OF HIS, WILSON'S,

THOUGHTS CONCERNING KING AND THE BLACK CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT, IN

THAT HIS FATHER, WHO WAS A PASTOR OF THE CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH AT

GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI, DIED OF A HEART ATTACK WHICH HE, WILSON,

THOUGHT WAS CAUSED AS A RESULT OF RACIAL TENSIONS AT GRENADA

BROUGHT ON BY THE FORCEFUL INTEGRATION OF HIS FATHER'S CHURCH.

WILSON STATED THAT APPROXIMATELY FIVE OR SIX MONTHS BEFORE

KING'S MURDER, HE STARTED GATHERING INFORMATION ON THE MOVEMENTS,

HABITS, AND WHEREABOUTS OF KING.

WILSON ADVISED THAI HE HAD A RED AND WHITE BONANZA AIRPLANE,

REGISTER NUMBER 34L, AND A CESSNA 310 IWIN-ENGINE AIRCRAFT, WHICH

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PAGE 4 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F TO

WAS BLUE AND WHITE, WHICH PLANES HE USED TO FLY TO DIFFERENT PLACES

WHERE KING WAS SUPPOSED TO BE. HE STATED THAT HE RECALLS GOING TO

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA; TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI; JACKSON, TENNESSEE;

ATLANTA, GEORGIA; AND GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA. HE STATED THAT

WHILE AT TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI, HE STAYED IN THE RAMADA INN AND

BELIEVES THAT IN THE OTHER PLACES HE VISITED HE STAYED IN HOLIDAY

INNS.

HE STATED THAT MITCH FURNISHED HIM A JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE.

HE STATED THAT HE KEPT THE RIFLE AND THAT JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS OF

1975, HE HAD IT REWORKED AT A GUNSHOP IN COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, ON

FOURTH STREET ACROSS FROM A BANK. HE STATED THAT THE LAST KNOW-

LEDGE HE HAD OF THE RIFLE, HIS OLDER SON, STEVEN WAYNE WILSON, HAD

THE RIFLE AND A SHOTGUN BUT HAD TOLD HIM THAT HE HAD SOLD IT.

MR. WILSON ADVISED THAT THERE WAS A GARBAGE STRIKE IN PROGRESS

AT MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, AND THAT MITCH CALLED HIM AT HIS STORE IN

GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, AND TOLD HIM THAT KING WAS COMING TO MEMPHIS

FOR A RALLY AND INSTRUCTED WILSON TO COME TO MEMPHIS WHERE HE WAS

TO MEET TWO MEN AT THE WONDER BAR LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF SUMMER

AVENUE AND WHITE STATION ROAD.

MR. WILSON ADVISED THAT HE FLEW TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, IN THE

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BONANZA AIRCRAFT AND LANDED AT AN AIRPORT JUST NORTH OF RALEIGH,

TENNESSEE. HE STATED THAT THE AIRPORT WAS OPERATED BY A LONG-TIME

ACQUAINTANCE OF HIS WHO HAD ATTENDED A CHURCH WHICH WAS PASTORED

BY WILSON'S FATHER IN THE PAST. WILSON STATED THAT HIS DAUGHTER,

DEBORAH, PICKED HIM UP AT THE AIRPORT IN HER 1965 WHITE MUSTANG,

WHICH WILSON HAD PREVIOUSLY BOUGHT FOR HER AND WHICH WAS REGISTERED

IN HIS NAME IN MISSOURI.

HE ADVISED THAT DEBORAH AND HER MOTHER, BETTY LOU, WERE

STAYING AT THE RESIDENCE OF WILSON'S FATHER-IN-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN,

3095 RUSKIN ROAD, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. HE STATED THAT HOOTEN HAD

HAD A HEART ATTACK AND THAT HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE TEMPORARILY

STAYING AT THE HOOTEN RESIDENCE.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE WENT TO THE WONDER BAR AND WHILE HAVING

A DRINK TWO WHITE MEN APPROACHED HIM, ONE HAVING AN ACCENT SIMILAR

TO A PUERTO RICAN.

THE IWO WHITE MALES FURNISHED HIM WITH FBI CREDENTIALS, WHICH

HE STATED HAD A BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPH OF HIMSELE ON IT,

AND THEY TOOK HIM AND SHOWED HIM WHERE KING WAS TO HOLD THE RALLY.

THEY THEN TOOK WILSON TO A HOTEL ON SOUTH MAIN STREET NEAR BEALE

STREET AND TOOK HIM TO A ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR. THEY TOLD HIM

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PAGE 6 JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

HE WAS TO BE IN THE CROWD AT THE RALLY AND THAT A DECOY SHOT WAS TO

BE FIRED AND THAT HE WAS THEN TO SHOOT. THEY SAID THAT KING HAD A

HABIT OF RAISING HIS ARMS OVER HIS HEAD WHEN HE WAS MAKING A SPEECH

AND THAT THE SECOND TIME THAT HE DID SO, THE SHOTS WERE TO BE FIRED.

WILSON STATED THAT ON THE DAY OF THE MURDER HE WAS IN THE

CROWD STANDING NEAR A WOOD FENCE APPROXIMATELY 60 FEET FROM WHERE

KING WAS STANDING AND THAT WHEN KING RAISED HIS ARMS THE SECOND

TIME HE SHOT HIM.

MR. WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAD THE RIFLE WHICH HE USED STRAPPED

TO HIS BELT UNDER A SUIT COAT AND ATTACHED TO HIS BELT ON A SWIVEL.

HE STATED THAT THE BARREL PROTRUDED FROM BELOW HIS COAT BUT NO ONE

QUESTIONED HIM CONCERNING IT. HE SAID THAT HE HAD PRACTICED A

GREAT DEAL SWIVELING THE RIFLE AND FIRING IT.

HE ADVISED THAT AFTER THE SHOOTING, HE WAS STOPPED BY THE

MEMPHIS POLICE, BUT HE SHOWED THEM THE CREDENTIALS, AND THEY LET

HIM GO, AND HE WALKED ON DOWN THE STREET APPROXIMATELY TWO BLOCKS

TO WHERE HE HAD LEFT THE MUSTANG PARKED. HE ADVISED THAT HE GOT IN

THE MUSTANG AND DROVE BACK TO THE HOOTEN RESIDENCE, AND HIS

DAUGHTER, DEBORAH, THEN TOOK HIM TO THE AIRPORT, AND HE GOT HIS

PLANE AND FLEW BACK TO KANSAS CITY. HE STATED THAT THE AIRPORT

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PAGE 7 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

THAT HE USED WAS ON THE KANSAS SIDE ON THE HIGHWAY TO OLATHE,

KANSAS. HE STATED THE AIRPORT WAS RUN BY (FNU) FISHER. HE ALSO

STATED THAT HE HAD PURCHASED THE BONANZA AIRCRAFT FROM FISHER.

WILSON ADVISED THAT APPROXIMATELY ONE WEEK BEFORE THE MURDER,

MITCH GAVE HIM $25,000 IN $20 BILLS, AND FOLLOWING THE MURDER,

MITCH GAVE HIM ANOTHER $25,000, AT WHICH TIME HE GAVE THE

CREDENTIALS BACK TO MITCH.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF JAMES EARL RAY

HAVING BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CONSPIRACY.

THE ABOVE INFORMATION REFLECTS COMPLETE DETAILS OF INTERVIEW

WITH WILSON.

WILSON HAS SIGNED EXTRADITION PAPERS, AND EXTRADITION IN

PROGRESS BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES.

APPROPRIATE RECIPIENTS REQUESTED TO REINTERVIEW RELATIVES OF

WILSON IN AN EFFORT TO RESOLVE INCONSISTENCIES CONCERNING HIS

APPEARANCE IN MEMPHIS ON APRIL 4, 1968.

CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO ALLOWING TWO AGENTS FROM

MEMPHIS DIVISION WHO ARE THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THE MURKIN

MATTER TO REINTERVIEW WILSON CONCERNING HIS ALLEGED INVOLVEMENT IN

THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING AND ALSO INTERVIEW

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PAGE 8 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

BY POLYGRAPH OPERATOR FROM MEMPHIS DIVISION.

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JN0092 231 22427

00 HQ BH DL ME SA

DE JN

I 19 22.42Z AUG 75

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMWEDIATE

BIRMINGHAM INMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDIATE

ALL OFFICES VIA FBIHQ

MEMPHIS <44-1987 SUE MY IMMEDIATE

SAI ANTONIO (44-1242) IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS E FT O

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, UR., INMATE, OCEAN SPRINGS CITY JAIL?.

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, WAS INIERVIEVED BY FBI AGENIS, AUGUST

19, 1978, REGARDING HIS ALLEGED KNOWLEDGE AND I NOLVEMENT IN THE

ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING AFTER HAVING WAIVED HIS

RIGHTS, AND HE FURNISHED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

WILSON ADVISED IHAT THE TIME PRIOR TO THE MURDER OF MARTIN

LUTHER KING, HE WAS LIVING IN GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, Ii A HOUSE ON

62-544-41

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PAGE 2 UN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

BYERS ROAD WITH HIS WIFE, BETTY LOU, AND HIS THREE CHILDREN,

DEBORAH, 'STEVE, AND MARK. HE WAS IN THE AIR

¿ FORCE RESERVE AND ALSO

OPERATED A JEWELRY SIORE.

IN THE COURSE OF HIS JEWELRY BUSINESS, HE MET A WHITE MALE

ITALIAN WHO WAS IN HIS LATE SIXTIES AND WAS APPROXIMATELY 5 FEET S

INCHES TALL, WEIGHED APPROXIMATELY 230 POUNDS, AND WHO OPERATED A

JEWELRY TRADE SHOP ON WALNUT STREET. HE STATED THAT THIS WHITE

MALE INTRODUCED HIM TO ANOTHER WHITE MALE ITALIAN BY THE NAME OF

MITCH (LNU), WHO WAS IN HIS MID FIFTIES AND WAS APPROXIMATELY

5 FEET ID INCHES TALL, AND WEIGHED APPROXIMATELY 190 POUNDS, WHO

HAD BLACK, WAVY HAIR AND HAD SOME CONNECTION WITH A BONDING

COMPANY, AND ALSO MIICH'S BROTHER, NANE NOI RECALLED, WHO FIT THE

SAME PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION AS MICH, BUT WHO, HAD NUMEROUS CUT SCARS

ON HIS FACE.

HE SIATED THAI MIICH STARTED DELIVEPING JEWELRY IO

HIM FOR

THE PURPOSE OF HAVING THE STONES REMOVED FROM THE FITTINGS. HE

STATED MITCH USUALLY MET HIM AT A BAR ON WALNUT STREET WHICH WAS

RUN BY A WHITE FEMALE AND IT ALSO APPEARED THAT MITCH MIGHT HAVE

BEEN A PARI OUNER OR HAD AN INTEREST IN THIS BAR. HE STATED THAT

DUE TO THE VOLUME OF JEWELRY THAI MIICH WAS BRINGING TO HIM, HE

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PAGE 3 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

ASKED MITCH ABOUI IT, AND MIICH ADVISED HIM THAI IT WAS STOLEN

JEVELRY. MIICH TOLD. HIM; HOWEVER, THAI HE, WILSON, WAS IN AS DEEP

AS HE, MIICH, WAS AND THAT HE WOULD HAVE IO CONTINUE WORKING WITH

MITCH• HE STATED THIS RELATIONSHIP WITH MITCH CONTINUED UNTIL

1970 .

HE STATED THAT MITCH BROUGHT UP THE IDEA OF KILLING KING AND

SAID THAI THERE WAS A $5D, DOO CONTRACI OI HIM. HOWEVER, HE NEVER.

SAID WHO PUT OUI THE CONTRACI BUT SAID THAT HE COULD GET THE MONEY

FOR WILSON IF HE KILLED. KING•

WILSON SIATED THAT MIICH WAS WELL AWARE OF HIS, WILSON'S,

THOUGHTS CONCERNING KING_ AND THE BLACK CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT, IN

THAI HIS FATHER, WHO WAS A PASTOR OF THE CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH AT

GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI, DIED OF A HEART ATTACK WHICH HE, WILSON,

THOUGHT WAS CAUSED AS A RESULT OF RACIAL TENSIONS AT GRENADA

BROUGHT ON BY THE: FORCEFUL INTEGRAIION OF HIS FATHER'S CHURCH.

WILSON STATED THAT APPROXIMATELY FIVE OR SIX MONIHS BEFORE

KING'S MURDER, HE STARTED GATHERING INFORMATION ON THE MOVEMENIS,

HABITS, AND WHEREABOUIS OF KING.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAD A RED. AND WHITE BONANZA AIRPLANE,

REGISTER NUMBER 34L, AND A CESSNA 310-IWIN-ENGINE AIRCRAFT, WHICH

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 166

---

## Page 167

PAGE 4 UN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

WAS BLUE AND WHITE, WHICH PLANES HE USED TO FLY TO DIFFERENT PLACES

WHERE KING WAS SUPPOSED TO

BE. HE STATED THAI HE RECALLS GOING TO

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA; TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI; JACKSON, TENNESSEE;

ATLANTA, GEORGIA; AND GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA. HE STATED THAT.

WHILE AI TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI, HE STAYED IN THE RAMADA INN AND

BELIEVES THAI IN THE OTHER PLACES HE VISITED HE STAYED IN HOLIDAY

INNS.

HE STATED THAT MITCH FURNISHED HIM A JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE.

HE STATED THAT HE KEPT THE RIFLE. AND THAI JUSI BEFORE CHRISTMAS OF

1975, HE HAD IT REWORKED AT A GUNSHOP IN COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, ON

FOURTH STREET ACROSS FROM A BAIK. HE STATED THAT THE LAST KNOW-

LEDGE HE HAD OF THE RIFLE, HIS OLDER SON, STEVEN WAYNE WILSON, HAD

THE RIFLE AND A SHOTGUN BUT HAD TOLD HIM THAT HE HAD SOLD II.

MR. WILSON ADVISED THAT THERE WAS A GARBAGE STRIKE IN PROGRESS

AT MEMPHIS; TENNESSEE, AND THAI MITCH CALLED HIM AT HIS STORE IN

GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI, AND TOLD HIM THAT KING WAS COMING IO MEMPHIS

FOR A RALLY AND INSTRUCTED WILSON TO COME TO MEMPHIS WHERE HE WAS

IO MEET IWO FiEN AT THE WONDER BAR LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF SUMMER

AVENUE AND WHITE STATION ROAD.

MR. WILSON ADVISED. THAI HE FLEW TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, IN THE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 167

---

## Page 168

PAGE 5 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

BONANZA AIRCRAFT AND LANDED AI AN AIRPORT JUST NORIH OF RALEIGH,

TENNESSEE. HE STATED THAT THE AIRPORT WAS OPERATED BY A LONG-TIME

ACQUAINIANCE OF HIS WHO HAD ATTENDED A CHURCH WHICH WAS PASTORED

BY WILSON'S FATHER IN THE PAST. WILSON STATED THAI HIS DAUGHTER,

DEBORAH, PICKED MIM UP AT THE AIRPORI IN HER 1965 WHITE MUSTANG,

WHICH WILSON HAD PREVIOUSLY BOUGHT FOR HER AND WHICH WAS REGISTERED

IN HIS NAME IN MISSOURI.'

HE ADVISED THAI DEBORAH AND HER MOTHER, BETTY LOU, WERE

STAYING AI. THE RESIDENCE OF WILSON'S FATHER-IN-LAW, VERNON HOOTEN,

3095 RUSKIN ROAD, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. HE STATED THAT HOOTEN HAD.

HAD A HEARI ATIACK AND THAT HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE TEMPORARILY

STAYING

AT THE HOOTEN RESIDENCE.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE WENT TO THE WONDER BAR AND WHILE HAVING

A DRINK TWÖ WHITE MEN APPROACHED HIM, ONE HAVING. AN ACCENI SIMILAR

TO A PUERTO RICAN.

THE IVO WHITE MALES FURNISHED HIM WITH FBI CREDENTIALS, WHICH

HE STATED HAD A BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPH OF HIMSELF ON IT,

AND THEY TOOK HIM: AND SHOWED HIM WHERE KING WAS TO HOLD THE RALLY.

THEY THEN TOOK WILSON TO A HOTEL ON SOUTH MAIN SIREET NEAR BEALE

STREET AND TOOK HIM TO A ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR. THEY TOLD HIM

MW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 168

---

## Page 169

PAGE 6 JW 62-544 UNCLAS E FI O

HE WAS TO BE IN THE CROWD AI THE RALLY AND THAT A DEC OY SHOT WAS IO

BE. FIRED AID THAI HE WAS THEN IO SHOOT, THEY SAID IHAI KING HAD

HABIT OF RAISING HIS ARMS

OVER HIS HEAD WHEIL HE WAS MAKING A SPEECH

AND THAI THE SECOND TIME THAI HE DID SO, THE SHOIS VERE TO BE FIRED.

WILSON STATED THAI ON THE DAY OF THE MURDER HE WAS IN THE

CROWD STANDING NEAR A WOOD FENCE APPROXIMATELY 60 FEET FROIT WHERE

KING WAS STANDING AND THAT WHEN KING RAISED HIS ARMS THE SECOND

TIME HE SHOT HIM.

MR. WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAD THE RIFLE WHICH HE USED STRAPPED

TO HIS BELT UNDER A SUIT COAI AND ATTACHED IO HIS BELT ON A SWIVEL.

HE STATED THAT THE BARREL PROTRUDED FROM BELOW HIS COAI BUT NO OÑE

QUESTIONED HIM CONCERNING II. HE SAID THAT HE HAD PRACIICED A

GREAT DEAL SWIVELING THE RIFLE AND FIRING IT.

HE ADVISED THAT AFTER THE SHOOTING, HE WAS STOPPED BY THE

MEMPHIS POLICE, BUT HE SHOWED THEM

THE CREDEWIIALS, AND THEY LET

HIM GO, AND HE WALKED ON DOWN THE STREET APPROXIMATELY TWO BLOCKS

TO WHERE HE HAD LEFT THE MUSTAG PARKED. HE ADVISED THAI HE GOT IN

THE MUSTANG AND DROVE BACK TO THE HOOTEN RESIDENCE, AND HIS

DAUGHTER, DEBORAH, THEI TOOK HIM TO THE AIRPORT; AND HE GOI MIS

PLANE AND FLEW

, BACK TO KANSAS CITY. HE STATED IHAI THE AIRPORI

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 169

---

## Page 170

PAGE 7 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

THAI HE USED WAS ON THE KANSAS SIDE ON THE HIGHWAY TO OLATHE,

KANSAS. HE STATED THE AIRPORT WAS RUNBY (FNU) FISHER. HE ALSO

STATED THAT HE HAD PURCHASED THE BONANZA AIRCRAFT FROM FISHER.

WILSON ADVISED THAI APPROXIMATELY ONE WEEK BEFORE THE MURDER,

MIICH GAVE HIM $25, DOD IN 520 BILLS, AND FOLLOWING THE MURDER,

MIICH GAVE HIM ANOTHER $25,00D, AI WHICH TIME HE GAVE THE

CHEDENTIALS BACK TO MIICH.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF JAMES EARL RAY

HAVING BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CONSPIRACY.

THE ABOVE INFORMATION REFLECTS COMPLETE DETAILS OF INTERVIEW

WITH WILSON.

WILSON HAS SIGNED EXTRADITION PAPERS, AND EXTRADITION IN

PROGRESS' BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES.

APPROPRIATE RECIPIENTS REQUESTED TO REINTERVIEW RELATIVES OF

WILSON IN AN EFFORT TO RESOLVE INCONSISTENCIES CONCERNING HIS

APPEARACE IN MEMPHIS ON APRIL 4, 1968e

CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO ALLOWING TWO AGENTS FRON

MEMPHIS DIVISION WHO ARE THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THE MURKIN

¡ATTER TO REINTERVIEW WILSON CONCERNING HIS ALLEGED IIVOLVENENT IN

THE ASSASSINATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING AND ALSO INTERVIEU

MANY Oa04 Woolateuren

tige: 1M0)

---

## Page 171

PAGE & Ji 62-544 U:C

EFTO

BY POLYGRAPH OPERATOR FROM HEMPHIS DIVISION.

BI

FOR ANY CORRECTIONS PLEASE CONTACI JACKSON

2312306 HQ 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989760 Page 171

---

## Page 172

MLAXIBPU3.H0D01 2312314Z

00 HQ JW ME

DE HO

0

192245 AUG 78

FI1 HOUSTON (44-1509)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

NEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB I1) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EF I O

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH..

MURKIN. 00: MEMPHIS.

REFERENCE JN TEL TO DIRECTORN 8/19/78.

ON 8/19/78, LARRY ALLEN, PATROLMAN, CLEVELAND, TEXAS. POLICE

DEPARIMENT (CPD>, REVIEWED CPD FILES AND COULD LOCATE

iO RECORD

IDENTIFIABLE WITH BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., DOB 8/28/31. ALLEN

ADVISED NON-CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT, IF FILED IN CLEVELAND, TEXAS,

PROBABLY FILED THROUGH CLEVELAND CITY COURT AND WARRANT ISSUED BY

CITY JUDGE GLEN JONES. RECORDS CITY COURT NOT AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW

UNTIL 9 AM, 8/21/78 AND JUDGE GLEN JONES CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE.

LEAD: HOUSTON AI CLEVELAND, TEXAS:

ASAP, MONDAY, AM, WILL REVIEW CLEVELAND CITY COURI RECORDS

PER

LEAD SET OUT IN REFERENCED TELETYPE.

62-544-42

FATHER

AGE:

: 1978

Biteau

Waits an

NEw Can lionellitem

Hagre 1n2

---

## Page 173

MLXXIBPU3.H0081 2312314Z

CO HO JW ME

DE HO

0 192245 AUG 78

FM HOUSTON (44-1509)

TO DIRECIOR (44-33361) INMEDIATE

JACKSOU (62-544) INMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) INMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFT O

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL IRQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEM,

HURKIlA 00: HEMPHIS*

REFERENCE UN TEL TO DIRECTORN 8/19/78.

ON: 8/19/78, LARRY ALLEN, PATROLMAN, CLEVELAND, TEXAS POLICE

DEPARTRELI (CPD), REVIRIED PD FILES AND COULD LOCATE I0 RECORD

IDENTIFIABLE WITH BURGESS AUDIE VILSON, JRe, DOB 8/28/310 ALLEN

ADVISED KON CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT, IF FILED IN CLEVELAND, TEXAS,

PROBABLY FILED THROUGH CLEVELAND CITY COURT AND VARRANT ISSUED BY

CITY JUDGE GLEN JONES. REGORDS CITY COURI NOT AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW

UNTIL O ALL, 8/21/78 AND JUDGE GLEN JONES CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE.

LEAD: HOUSTON AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS:

ASAP, MONDAY, AM, WILL REVIEN CLEVELAND CITY COURT RECORDS

PER LEAD SET OUT IN REFEREICED TELETYPE.

62-544-42

BT

---

## Page 174

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

Memorandum

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

TO

: SAG, JACKSON (62-544)

DATE:

8/19/78

FROM

: SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.

SUBJECT: MURKIN

Of BURGESS AE FEllowson, are among items found in the wallet

Current Texas Driver's License #7911315

San Crtinio

under name of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

113 Mill Street, San Marcos, Texas, DOB

8/28/31, license expires 1980.

Handwritten note on back of card giving

Interplis

address of 1005 Hickory Hill Lane, C-103,

Hermitage, Tennessee, 37076, no name on

card.

Business card for MAX D. MURRAY,

Sam Centimo

Advertising Representative, Austin,

Texas, American-Statesman.

Business card for DAN WERNER

, Craftsman

gackoor

Workshop, Edgewater Mall, Biloxi, MS,

telephone 388-9601.

Jackson

Note with name KARL FASOID, 863-4761

(apparently Gulfport, MS, telephone no.)

Business card for Louisiana Off-Shore

nce,

Caterers, name JIM FONTENOT, Personnel

Director,

Houma, Louisiana, telephone

876-3642.

1,Q.

- Jackson

KWS/mae

(2) now

Pay voucher from Gulf Coast Catering Co.,

New Iberia, Louisiana, for pay period ending

6/16/78.

Louisiana,

Loud Manh, 323-738 MUR 42, 40600e,

62-544-43

SEARCHED-

SERIES HE LED DI

AUG 1 ₽ 1978

7,40.

FBI/DOJ

Buy U.S. Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Savings Plan

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 174

---

## Page 175

JN 62-544

Jallas Card with name BOB CAZOET, 214-521-4195.

Sam Contamo

Bill of sale, mainly illegible, but made

out to VERA M. NEVILL, Route 4, Box 620-G,

Canyon Lake, Texas.

San Cotonio

Veterans Administration patient data card,

#422341275, under name of BURGESS A. WILSON,

Canyon Lake, Texas.

Sam Crtonio

1977 VFW membership card, #990998, for Post

Number 8573, Canyon Lake, Texas.

gacksor

Names STAN BULLARD and Jones Builders,

Long Beach, Mississippi.

Business card for Bill Wilson Builders,

Som Cortonio

Canyon Lake, 'lexas, and

317 East Buclid, Yon Antonio, Texas.

Jacksor

USAF retired.

WILSON advised he was discharged from USA

n 1960 after 12 years service with rank o:

Technical Sergeant.)

Private pilot's certificate #1106770, under

0.e.

mid.

multi engine land airplanes, issued by FAA,

Oklahoma City.

WILSON claims to be personally acquainted with

Tennessee Air National Guard. At that time, BARKSDALE

headed the Memphis, Tennessee, Police Department Vice Squad.

WILSON has advised that he arrived on the Mississippi

Gulf Coast around 7/1/78.

He came to the Gulf Coast from

Houma, Louisiana, where he worked for the Louisiana Off-Shore

Company (not further identified).

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 175

---

## Page 176

UNITED STATES GO

RNMENT

Memorandum

TO

: SAC, JACKSON (62-544)

FROM

: SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.

SUBJECT: MURKIN

UNITED STATES DEPA

MENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

DATE:

8/19/78

PTMI

Suni

4l830

telecopian

The following are among items found in the wallet -

of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.:

Current Texas Driver's License #7911315

under name of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

113 Mill Street, San Marcos, Texas, DOB

8/28/31, license expires 1980.

Handwritten note on back of card giving

address of 1005 Hickory Hill Lane, C-103,

Hermitage, Tennessee, 37076, no name on

card.

Business card for MAX D. MURRAY,

Advertising Representative, Austin,

Texas, American-Statesman.

Business card for DAN WERNER, Craftsman

Workshop, Edgewater Mall, Biloxi, MS,

telephone 388-9601.

Note with name KARL FASOID, 863-4761

(apparently Gulfport, Ms, telephone no.)

Business card for Louisiana Off-Shore

Caterers, name JIM FONTENOI, Personnel

Director,

Houma, Louisiana, telephone

876-3642.

New Iberia,

6/16/78.

Card with name IAD MURRAY, -40600 ' 62-544-43

Louisiana, 323-1382 or 128-4060.

- Jackson

KWS/mae

(2) now

NUG 1 © 1973

1-186

¡CB!

FBI/DOJ

Buy U.S. Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Savings Plan

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 176

---

## Page 177

JN 62-544

Card with name BOB CAZOET, 214-521-4195.

Bill of sale, mainly illegible, but made

out to VERA M. NEVILL, Route 4, Box 620-G,

Canyon Lake, Texas.

Veterans Administration patient data card,

#422341275; under name of BURGESS A. WILSON,

Canyon Lake, Texas.

1977 VEW membership card, #990998, for Post

Number 8573, Canyon Lake, Texas.

Names STAN BULLARD and Jones Builders,

Long Beach, Mississippi.

Business card for Bill Wilson Builders,

Custom Homes

Canyon Lake, 'Texas, and

817 East Euclid, San Antonio, Texas.

-

USAF retired.

Technical Sergeant.)

Private pilot's certificate #1106770, under

Oklahoma City.

WILSON claims to be personally acquainted with

Shelby County, Tennessee, Sheriff GENE BARKSDALE, CalLing

BARKSDALE an old flying buddy who flew with WILSON in the

Tennessee Air National Guard. At that time, BARKSDALE

headed the Memphis, Tennessee, Police Department Vice Squad.

WILSON has advised that he arrived on the Mississippi

Gulf Coast around 7/1/78.

He came to the Gulf Coast from

Houma, Louisiana, where he worked for the Louisiana Off-Shore

Company (not further identified).

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 177

---

## Page 178

62-544-44

SEARCHED.

_INDEXED

SERIALIZED.

_FILED

AUG % 1978

FBI-JACKSO LCB

NW 65994 Docld:32989768_Page-178.

---

## Page 179

ERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIC

Date of transcription August 1, 1978

Sent mE

8 19|78 Telecopic*BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR:, also known as Bill,

date of birth August 28, 1931,

Social Security Account Nunber

422-34-1275, furnished the following information to SA ROYCE

DAVID HIGNIGHT:

Mr. WILSON advised that he was born August 28, 1931,

at Fulton, Mississippi, and that he resided with his family at

Golden, Mississippi, until 1936, at which time the family moved

to Eldridge, Alabama, where he attended school until the eighth

grade and then went to high school at Carbon Hill, Alabama,

until 1947.

He advised on May 2, 1947, he entered the U. S. Air

force and was discharged in 1950. He stated that after being

out of the Air Force for approximately eight months he was

recalled for the Korean War and stayed in until February, 1960,

at which time he was given an honorable discharge.

he and his wite, BETTY LOU WILSON, moved to Memphis,

tollowing his discharge, where he worked for

Prudential Insurance Company for approximately one year.

After Leaving Prudential Insurance Company, he operated a

laundry and cleaning business in Memphis.

he was also in the Tennessee Air National Guard.

He left Memphis, Tennessee, went to Grandview,

Missouri, where he became a civil service employee in the Air

Force Reserve.

He stayed employed in the Air Force Reserve

until 1970. From 1966 until 1970, he also operated a jewelry

stóre business.

In 19/0, he and wife, BEttY WILSON,

moved to Memphis,

Tennessee, and opened a jewelry business in Bartlett,,

l'ennessee. In addition to the jewelry business, he also built

aluminum storage buildings. He stated that in June, 1970, a

tornado hit his business and destroyed it.

He then went to San Antonio, Texas, and became

employed by the Air Force Reserve as a flight engineer.

He

also operated a jewelry store in San Antonio until 1974, when

he and his wife BETTY divorced.

Interviewed on -

8/19/78

-Ocean Springs, Mississippifile # Jackson 62-544

by -

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT/mae

Date dictated

8/19/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is tice property of the FBI and is louned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

F8l/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768. Page 179

---

## Page 180

JN 62-544

He then went to Mountain Home, Arkansas, and opened

a jewelry store and married AVIS LEA HUNTER. He was married

tO HUNTER Ior approximately six months.

they divorced.

HUNTER now resides at 1010 Hickory Hill Lane, Hermitage,

Tennessee.

He then went to Columbus, Mississippi, where he

worked in the gubernatorial campaign for Governor CLIFF FINCH.

While in Columbus, he married PATRICIA SHINDALA of Starkville,

Mississippi.

He also advised that while in Columbus he sold

Ire extinguishers. He stated that during the gubernatoria.

suggested that he tell people that he was :

retired colonel and an ex-prisoner of war to campaign for

FINCH.

He stated that after the campaign was over, he was

dropped by the FINCH people.

• He left Columbus, Mississippi, in January, 1976, and

went to lyler, Texas, where he stayed with LARRy Hughey, a

friend who had a farm. He went to Texas for the purpose of

clearing up some "charges" against him at New Braunfels, Texas.

He advised that he went to Dallas, Texas,

to see a

friend, and while there, he called his son and asked him to

come see him, and shortly thereafter the police arrived and

arrested him

on a charge of non-child support on a warrant

issued for him at Cleveland, Texas.

He was released to

authorities from New Braunfels, where he pled guilty to a

charge of theft by check and received a sentence of eight

years probation.

He advised that he then stayed in the vicinity of

New Braunfels where he did construction work. He had an

altercation with another employee; and he was arrested for

violation of his probation but was released a couple of weeks

later.

He continued working around New Braunfels and was again

arrested for possession of stolen merchandise which actually

was a dispute between himself and an associate over some

property that he had stored for the associate, and the charges

were subsequently dropped. He continued in the construction

business and married JO. ANN CHILDRESS, and they were divorced

after three months.

In January of 1978, he went to Houma, Louisiana,

and went to work for Louisiana Off-Shore Caterers and worked

there until April, at which time he went to work for Gulf Coast

NW 65994 Docld:32989768

Page 180

---

## Page 181

JN 62-544

Caterers of New Iberia, Louisiana, and worked there until

the end of June of 1978, at which time he came to ocean.

Springs, Mississippi, and opened a jewelry shop.

He lived

at the Twin Pines Apartments the first three weeks he was

in Ocean Springs and then moved to Route 6, Box 387.

He furnished the following description of himself:

Name

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

Also known as

Bill

Date of birth

August 28, 1931

Place of birth

Fulton, Mississippi

Height

5 feet 11 inches

Weight

170 pounds

Tais

Brown

Gray

Social Security Number

422-34-1275

Education

High school graduate

Military service

U. S. Air Force

1947-1960

Father

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, SR.

(deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

Mother

Stepmother

Brother

Sister

MITTIE DALE (deceased)

LILLIE MAE WILSON (deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

ALLISON

TOWERS WILSON

Reform, Alabama

LYDA MC GAHEY

2002 East Eighth Avenue North

Columbus, Mississippi

Sister

CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE

rulton, Mississippi

Ex-wife

BETTY LOU WILSON WADE

Burleson, Texas

Ex-wife

AVIS LEA HUNTER

1010 Hickory Hill Lane

Hermitage,

Tennessee

Ex-wife

PATRICIA SHINDALA

Starkville, Mississippi

(believed killed in car

accident)

Ex-wife

JO ANN CHILDRESS

113 Mill Street

San Marcos, Texas

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 181

---

## Page 182

JN 62-544

4

Daughter

Son .

Son

DEBORAH ANN JONES,

husband CHARLES,

selvedere,

Illinois

STEVEN WAYNE WILSON

Burleson; Texas

MARK ANTHONY WILSON

Burleson, Texas

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 182

---

## Page 183

62-544-45

SEARCHED-

INDEXE

AUG 2 : 1978

FBI-JACKSON (B

NW 65994* Docid:32989768 Page 183

---

## Page 184

• FD- 362(Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

tricopic 86151780

Date of transcription _

August 19, 1978

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., an inmate of the Ocean Springs

City Jail, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, furnished the following

information to ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHt and K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.,

who he knows to be Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investi-

gation, after having been advised the purpose of the interview being

his knowledge and involvement in the murder of Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING

and after having been advised of his Constitutional rights which he

waived as indicated by an Advice of Rights and Waiver of Rights Form

which he signed:

Mr. WILSON advised that at the time prior to the murder of

MARTIN LUTHER KING, he was living in Grandview, Missouri, in a house.

on Byers Road with

his wife, BETTY LOU, and his three children,

DEBORAH, STEVE, and MARK. He was in the Air Force Reserve and

also

operated a jewelry store.

In the course of his jewelry business, he met a white male

Italian who was in his late sixties and was approximately 5 feet 9

inches tall, weighed approximately 230 pounds, and who operated a

jewelry trade shop on Walnut Street. He stated that this white male

introduced him to another white male Italian by the name of MITCH

(Last Name Unknown), who was in his mid fifties and was approximately

5 feet 10 inches tall, and weighed approximately 190 pounds, who had

black, wavy hair and had some

connection with a bonding company, and

also MITCH's brother, name not recalled, who fit the same physical

description as MITCH, but who had numerous cut scars on his face.

He stated that. MITCH started. delivering jewelry to him for

the purpose of having the stones removed from the fittings. He stated

MITCH usually met him at a bar on Walnut Street which was run by a

white female and it. also appeared that MITCH might have been a part

owner of had an interest in this bar. He stated that due to the

volume of jewelry that MITCH was bringing to him, he asked MITCH

about it, and MITCH advised him that it was stolen jewelry. MITCH

told him, however, that he, WILSON, was in as deep as he, MITCH, was

and that he would have to continue

working with MITCH. He stated

this relationship with MITCH continued until 1970.

He stated that MITCH brought up the idea of killing KING

and said that there was a $50,000 contract on him. However, he

Interviewed on

8/19/78 Ocean Springs, MississipPile# Jackson 62-544

SA K.

P.

WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT/RDH/mae

Date dictated

8/19/78

by

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOS

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 184

---

## Page 185

..t

JN 62-544

never said who put out the contract but said that he could get

the money for WILSON if he killed KING.

WILSON stated that MITCH was well aware of his, WILSON's,

thoughts concerning KING and the black civil rights movement, in.

that his father, who was a pastor of the Central Baptist Church at

Grenada, Mississippi, died of a heart attack which he, wILsON,

thought was caused as a result of racial tensions at Grenada brought

on by the forceful integration of his father's church.

WILSON stated that approximately five or six months before

KING's murder, he started gathering information on the movements,

habits, and whereabouts of KING.

WILSON advised that he had a red and white Bonanza airplane,

Register Number 34L, and a Cessna 310 twin-engine aircraft, which was

blue and white, which planes he used to fly to different places

where KING, was supposed to be. He stated that he recalls going

• to

Huntsville, Alabama; Tupelo, Mississippi; Jackson, Tennessee; Atlanta,

Georgia; and Greenville, South Carolina.

He stated that while at

Tupelo, Mississippi, he stayed in the Ramada Inn and believes that

in the

other places

he visited he stayed in Holiday Inns.

He stated that MITCH furnished him a Japanese sniper rifle.

He stated that he kept the rifle and that just before Christmas of

1975, he had it reworked at a

gunshop in Columbus, Mississippi, on

Fourth Street across from a bank..

He stated that the last knowledge

he had of

the rifle, his older son, StEVEN WAYNE WILSON, had the

rifle and a shotgun but had told him that he had sold it.

Mr. WILSON advised that there was a garbage strike in

Memphis for. a rally and instructed WILSON to come to Memphis where

he was to meet two men at the Wonder Bar located at the corner of

Summer Avenue and White Station Road.

Mr. WILSON advised that he flew to Memphis, Tennessee,

in the Bonanza aircraft and landed at an airport just north of

Raleigh,. Tennessee.

He stated that the airport was operated by a

long-time acquaintance of his who had attended a church which was

pastored by WILSON's father in the past.

WILSON stated that his

daughter, DEBORAH, picked him up at the airport in her 1965 white

Mustang,

which WILSON had previously bought for her and which was

registered in his name in Missouri.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 185

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## Page 186

JN 62-544

He advised that DEBRAH and her mother, BETTY LOU, were

staying at the residence of WILSON's father-in-law, VERNON HOOTEN

• 3095 Ruskin Road, Memphis, Tennessee.

He stated that HOOTEN had had

a heart attack and that his wife and daughter were temporarily stay-

ing at the HOOTEN residence.

WILSON advised that he went to the Wonder Bar and while

having a drink two white men approached him, one having an accent

similar to a Puerto Rican.

The two white males furnished him with FBI credentials,

which he stated had a black and white photograph of himself on it,

and they took him and showed him where KING was to hold the rally.

They then took WILSON to a hotel on South Main Street near Beale

Street and took him to a room on the third floor. They told him

he was to be in the crowd at the rally and that a decoy shot was to

be fired and that he was then to shoot. They said that KING had a

habit of raising his arms over his head when he was making a speech

and that the second time that he did so, the shots were to be fired.

WILSON stated that on the day of the murder he was in the

crowd standing near a wood fence approximately 60 feet from where

KING was standing and that when KING raised his arms the second time

he shot him.

Mr. WILSON advised that he had the rifle which he used

strapped to his belt under a suit coat and attached to his belt on

a swivel.. He stated that the barrel protruded from below his coat

out no one questioned him concerning it. He said that he had prac-

ticed a great deal swiveling the rifle and firing it.

He advised that after the shooting, he was stopped by the

Memphis police, but he showed them the credentials, and they let

him

go,. and he

walked on down the street approximately two blocks

to where he had left the. Mustang parked. He advised that he got

in the. Mustang and drove back to the HOOTEN residence, and his

laughter, DEBORAH, then took him to the airport, and he got his

plane and flew back to. Kansas City. He stated that the airport

that he used was on the Kansas side on the highway to Olathe,

Kansas. He stated the airport was run by (First Name Unknown)

FISHER.

He also stated that he had purchased the Bonanza aircraft

from FISHER.

WILSON advised that approximately one week before the

murder, MITCH

gave him 525,000 1n s20 bills, and IodIOwing the

murder,

MITCH

gave him another $25,000, at which time he gave the

credentials back to MITCH.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 186

---

## Page 187

JN 62-544

WILSON advised that he has no knowledge of JAMES EARL

RAY having been involved in the conspiracy.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 187

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## Page 188

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

Memorandum

TO

: SAC, JACKSON (62-544) (P)

FROM

: SA KENNETH P. HUGHES

SUBJECT: MURKIN

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

DATE:

8/19/78

The following investigation was conducted by SA

KENNETH P. HUGHES on 8/19/78:

WILSON, JR., DOB 8/28/31, Fulton, MS.

Grenada, MS, City Directory shows Central Baptist

Church, 333 Second Street, Grenada, MS, and pastor Reverend

JOE BELL.

HUBERT SPEARS, U. S. Post Office, Grenada, advised

they did have a B. A. WILSON as a preacher

at the Central

Baptist Church,

Grenada, approximately four or five years

ago when he died. SPEARS stated WILSON's wife, first name

possibly GLADYS,

stayed in Grenada approximately one year

and lived at 375 Levee Street, which house is now vacant

and in the process of being torn down.

While in Grenada,

B. A. WILSON and wife lived in the church parsonage located

behind Central Baptist Church.

with WILSON and his wife at that time, and if they had any

children, they were all grown.

cut that tie on t chay to ay

Review of City Directory shows Mrs. LILLY M. WILSON

residing 375 South Levee Street, Grenada.

advised BURGESS AUDIE WILSON was pastor at Central Baptist

church Ior approximately 1s years'until he died of a heart

attack on 1/7/67.

BELL estimated WILSON was pastor from 1954

to 1967.

He stated WILSON and his second wife, LILLY, lived

in the church parsonage.

BELL stated WILSON had four children who were as

follows: Mrs. CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic), who lives in

Columbus, MS; and one other son, name not known.

2 - Jackson

SED-

OK Ok

KPH/mae

AUG 1 € 1978

(2) nau

Buy U.S. Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Saving fro

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 188

---

## Page 189

JN 62-544

BELL believed all of WILSON's children were married

wife of B. A. WILSON, died approximately one year ago in a

nursing home at Fulton, Ms.

B. A. WILSON and his wife, LILLY,

had a house in Grenada located at

the corner of Levee and 4th

Street, and BELL knew of no other land the WILSONs owned in

Grenada.

Concerning BILL WILSON, BELI stated that he was a

pilot and flew for a freight line or unknown airline in Kansas

City, Kansas, and reportedly flew freight to Guam and other

islands.

BELL knew that BILL WILSON had caused his father

problems concerning debts that his father, B. A. WILSON, had

to pay, and he believed that BILL WILSON had been arrested on

an embezzlement charge possibly in California. BELL recalled

that BILL WILSON flew into Memphis, Tennessee, on Sunday, the

before the funeral, which was on a Monday, with his second

BELL did not know if BILL WILSON had any children. BELL

for BILL WILSON,

and LILLY WILSON told BELL she never wanted

to lay eyes on him again or have BILL WILSON put a foot in her

house. LILLY WILSON told BELL that BILL WILSON did not deserve

pay port of of as dese

part of his father's inheritance as the father had already

WILSON apparently argued over the shotgun, and the other

unknown

brother left in disgust, leaving the shotgun to BILI

WILSON. BElT stated an attorney wilthe name of FREDERICKS in

Grenada read B. A. WILSON, SR.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 189

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## Page 190

SAC, JACKSON (62-544) (P)

SA KENNETH P. HUGHES

MURKIN

8/19/78

The following investigation was conducted by SA

KENNETH P. HUGHES on 8/19/78:

FREDDY TILGHAM, Chief of Police, Grenada, MS, Police

Department, could locate no arrest record

on BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR., DOB 8/28/31, Fulton, MS.

Grenada, MS, City Directory shows Central Baptist

Church,

.333 Second Street, Grenada, Mis, and pastor Reverenc

JOE BELLO

HUBERT SPEARS, U. S. Post Office, Grenada, advised

they did have a B. A. WILSON as a preacher

at the Central

Baptist Church,

Grenada, approximately four or five years

ago when he died. SPEARS stated WILSON's wife, first name

possibly GLADYS,

stayed in Grenada approximately one year

lived at 375 levee Street, which house is now vacant

and in the process of being torn down. While in Grenada,

Bo A.

wILSON and wife lived

in the church parsonage located

behind Central Baptist Church.

There were no children living

with WILSON and his wife at that time, and if they had any

children, they were all grown.

Review of City Directory shows Mrs. LILLY MI. WILSON

residing 375 South Levee Street, Grenada.

Reverend JOE BELL, Pastor, Central Baptist Church,

advised BURGESS AUDIE WILSON was pastor at Central Baptist

BELI, estimated WILSON was pastor from 1954

He stated WILSON and his second wife, LILLY, lived

in the church parsonage.

BELL stated WILSON had four children who were as

follows: Mrs. CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic), who lives in

Fulton, MS; BILL WILSON, Kansas City, Kansas; LIDA (INU)

Columbus, MS; and one other son, name not known. 62-S44-46

Q - Jackson

KPH/mae

(2) now

-=..

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 190

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## Page 191

JN 62-544

BELL believed all of WILSON's children were married

and knew that B. A. WILSON had churches at Camp Creek, Fulton,

MS; Lynn Station, north of Jasper, Alabama; and at Eldridge,

nursing home

had a house in Grenada

at rulen located at the corner of levee and 4&h"

Street, and BELL knew of no other

land the WILSONs owned in

Concerning BILL WILSON,

BELL stated that he was a

BELL knew that BILL WILSON had cäused his father

problems concerning debts that his father, B._ A. WILsON, had

to pay, and he believed that BILL WILSON had been arrested on

an embezzlement charge possibly in California. BELL recalled

that BILL WILSON flew into Memphis, Tennessee, on Sunday, the

before the funeral, which was on a Monday, with his second

BELL did not know if BILL WILSON had any children.

did not know how long BULL WILSON stayed In Grenada ail ala

the day after the funeral.

Kow that BILL WILSOY'S Stepmother, LILiX WILSON,

had no use

LOT BILL WILSON,

and LILLY WILSON told BELL she never wanted

to lay eyes on him again or have BILL WILSON put a foot in her

house-

LILLY WILSON told BELL that BILL WILSON did not deserve

any part of his father's inheritance as the father had already

paid off many of his debts.

his father's shotgun during the settlement of the estate,

BELL further stated BILL WILSON*

WILSON apparently argued over the shotgun and the other

unknown brother left in disgust, leaving the shotgun to BILI

WILSON. BELL stated an attorney by the name of FREDERICKS in

Grenada read B. A. WILSON, SR.'

s will.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 191

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## Page 192

DL0889 2322245Z

00 HG TiE JN

DE DL

0 212045Z AUG 78

FM DALLAS (44-2649) RUC

TO DIRECIOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS

(44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON INMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTI: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNII, FOOM 8988, JEM..

MURKIN®

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR 8-20-78.

BETTY LOU WADE RECONCATED 8-25-78, AND STATES VISIT TO MEMPHIS-

TO SEE VERNON HOOTER, BAPTISI HOSPITAL, WAS SEVERAL WEEKS AFTER KING

MURDER.

WADE CONFIRMS WILSON BOUGHI DAUGHTER A CREAM COLORED MUSTANG

IN FEBURARY 1968, BUT SAYS HE NEVER DROVE VEHICLE ON ANY TRIPS

IO HER KNOWLEDGE.. SHE ALSO RECONFIRMS THAT WILSON WAS AT HOME IN

GRANDVIEW, MO. AT TIME KING MURDERED. SHE STATED THAI SHE HAS NEVER

HEARD WILSON MAKE ANY STATEMENT THAT HE KILLED MARTIN

LUTHER KING.

STEPHEN WAYNE WILSON SAYS HE WAS 15 ON 4-4-68, AND RECALLS

SEEING OF KINGS DEAIH ON IV AI HOME IN GRANDVIEW, MO. HÈ CONFIRMS

FATHER BURGESS AUDIE WILSON WAS ALSO HOME AI THAT TIME.

STATES THAT

THERE WAS NO WAY HIS FATHER COULD HAVE KILLED

KING 62-544-47

AUG R 0 1978

---

## Page 193

PAGE TWO DALLAS 44-2649 UNCLAS EFTO

STEPHEN WILSON CONFIRMED SISTER OWNED 1965 MUSTANG AND FATHER

DROVE IT ON OCCASION BUT DOES NOI RECALL HE EVER DROVE II IO MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE.

DESCRIBES FATHER AS ALCOHOLIC WITH SERIOUS MENTAL PROBLEMS.

SAID HE PLACED FATHER IN ALCOHOLIC REHABILITATION CLINIC AI SAN

ANTONIO, TEXAS FOR 3 = 4 DAYS. IN JANUARY 1976 IO DRY HIM OUT.

FATHER LIVED WITH HIM FOR BRIEF TIME AFTERWARDS AND WOULD DRINK

CONSTANTLY AND DO AND. SAY CRAZY THINGS. SAYS NEVER HEARD

FATHER. EVER MAKE STATEMENT THAT HE KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING.

MARK ANTHONY WILSON INTERVIEWED 8/20/78 AND STATED FATHER

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON IS A VERY SICK MAN AND POSSIBLY INSANE.

SAYS

HIS FATHER COULD NOI HAVE KILLED DR. KIG SINCE IO THE BEST

OF HIS RECOLLECTION BURGESS WILSON WAS AT HOME IN GRAND VIEW,

MO. ON THAT DATE. THINKS MOTHER AND SISTER VISITING GRANDMOTHER

AT MEMPHIS, TENN. AND FATHER WAS HOME WITH HIM AND BROTHER STEPHEN.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 193

---

## Page 194

PAGE THREE DL 44-2649 UNCLAS E F TO

WILSON DECRIBES FATHER AS HABITUAL LIAR AND ALCOHOLIC WHO

"WOULD WALK AROUND THE TRUTH TO TELL A LIE." SAYS FATHER HAS

ALWAYS WANIED TO BE SOMEONE IMPORTANT AND HAS EXPRESSED THE

OPINION NUMEROUS TIMES THAT THE WHOLE WORLD IS CRAZY AND HE IS

THE ONLY SANE PERSON IN IT. STATES FATHER WAS PRIVATE PILOT

AT ONE TIME AND DID HAVE BONANZA AIRCRAFI WHILE THEY LIVED AT

GRANDVIEW, NO. CONFIRMS SISTER HAS CREAM MUSTANG AND FATHER DROVE

IT ON OCCASION BUT NEVEP. TOOK IT OUT OF TOWN.

•HE SAYS HE LASI SAW HIS FATHER IN SAIN MARCUS, TEXAS IN. JANUARY

1978 WHEN STEPHEN AND HE HAD DINNER WITH THEIR FATHER. SAID HE

SEEMED TO BE DOING OX AND NO INDICATION OF ANY PROBLEMS AT THAT TIME.

SAYS HE NEVER HEARD HIS FATHER MÄKE ALLEGATION THAT HE KILLED MARTIN

LUTHER KING•

BI

REC OWE TEL CLR TO U

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 194

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## Page 195

DL08E9 2322245Z

• 00 10 ME JUI

DE DL

0 212045Z AUG 78

FEL DALLAS (44-2649) RUC

TO DIRECIOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTI: COIGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

HURXIN.

RE MEUPHIS TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR 8-25-78.

BETTY LOU VADE RECONCATED 8-20-78, AND STATES VISIT TO MEMPHIS

TO SEE VERNON HOOTEN, BAPTIST HOSPITAL, WAS SEVERAL, WEEKS AFIER KING

MURDER-

WADE CONFIRIIS WILSON BOUGHT DAUGHTER A CREAM COLORED MUSTANG

IN FEBURARY 1968, BUT SAYS HE NEVER DROVE VEHICLE ON ANY TRIPS

TO HER KOWLEDGE. SHE ALSO RECONFIRMS THAT VILSON WAS AT HOME IN

GRANDVIEV, NO. AT TIME KING MURDERED. SHE STATED THAT SHE HAS REVER

HEARD WILSON MAKE ANY STATEMENT THAT HE KILLED MARTIN

LUTHER KING=

STEPHEN WAYNE WILSON SAYS HE WAS 15 ON 4-4-68, AND RECALLS

SEEING OF KINGS DEATH ON IV AT HOHE IN GRANDVIEW, NO. HE CONFIRMS

FATHER BURGESS AUDIE WILSON WAS ALSO HOME AT THAT TIME. STATES THAT

THERE WAS NO WAY HIS FATHER COULD HAVE KILLED KING: 602-544-47

LCB

MM00d Dould:2201769 Page 195

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## Page 196

PAGE TVO DALLAS 44-2649 UNCLAS EFT O

STEPHEN WILSON CONFIRMED SISTER OUNED 1965 MUSTANG AND FATHER

DROVE IT ON OCCASION BUT DOES NOT RECALL HE EVER DROVE IT TO MEMPHIS,

TENNESSEE.

DESCRIBES FATHER AS ALCOHOLIC WITH SERIOUS MENTAL PROBLEMS.

SAID HE PLACED FATHER IN ALCOHOLIC REHABILITATION CLINIC AT SAN

ANTONIO, TEXAS FOR 3 - 4 DAYS IN JANUARY 1976 TO DRY HIM OUI..

FATHER LIVED WITH HIM FOR BRIEF TIME AFTERWARDS AND WOULD DRINK

• CONSIANILY AND DO AND SAY CRAZY THINGS• SAYS NEVER HEARD

FATHER EVER MAKE SIATEMENT THAT HE KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING.

MARK ANTHONY WILSON INTERVIEVED 8/26/78 AND STATED FATHER

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON IS A VERY SICK MAM AND POSSIBLY INSANE.

SAYS HIS FATHER COULD -NOT HAVE KILLED DR. KING SINCE TO THE BEST

OF HIS RECOLLECTION BURGESS WILSON VAS AT HOWE IN GRAND VIEW,

MO. ON THAT DATE, THINKS MOTHER AID SISTER VISITIIG GRANDMOTHER

AI MEMPHIS, TENN. AND FATHER WAS HONE WITH HIM AND BROTHER STEPHEN.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 196

---

## Page 197

PAGE THREE DL 44-2649 UNCLAS E FIO

WILSON DECRIBES FATHER AS HABITUAL LIAR AND ALCOHOLIC WHO

"WOULD WALK AROUND THE TRUTH TO TELL A LIE." SAYS FATHER HAS

ALWAYS WANTED TO BE SOMEONE IMPORTANT AND HAS EXPRESSED THE

OPINION NUMEROUS TIMES THAT THE WHOLE WORLD IS CRAZY AND HE IS

THE ONLY SANE PERSON IN IT. STATES FATHER WAS PRIVATE PILOT

AT ONE TIME AND DID HAVE BONANZA AIRCRAFT WHILE THEY LIVED AT

GRAEDVIEW, NO, CONFIRUS SISTER HAS CREAM MUSTANG AND FATHER DROVE

IT ON OCCASION BUT NEVER TOOK IT OUT OF TOWN.

HE SAYS HE LAST SAW HIS FATHER IN SAI MARCUS, TEXAS IN JANUARY

1978 WHEN STEPHEN AND HE HAD DINNER WITH THEIR FATHER. SAID HE

SEEMED TO BE DOING OK AND NO INDICATION OF ANY PROBLEMS AT THAT TIME.

SAYS HE NEVER HEARD HIS FATHER MAKE ALLEGATION THAT HE KILLED MARTIN

LUTHER KING.

REC ONE TEL CLR TO U

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 197

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## Page 198

ME0003 2321738Z

O0 HO JiN

DE ME

0 2017392 AUG 78

FM

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB i1)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861)

IMMEDIATE

JACKSON

IMMEDIATE

BT UNCLAS E F TO

ATTI CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, FOOM 8988 JEH.

MURKIN

RE JACKSON TEL TO BUREAU 8-19-78.

ON 3-19-78, MNS. AVIS LHEA HUNIER, NEE PRUETT, C 103,

RAVENWOOD APARIMENTS, IODS HICKORY HILL LANE, NASHVILLE, TENU,

ADVISED AS FOLLOWS:

SHE MARIED BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, AKA, BILL Oi 12-31-74

AT MOUNTAIN MONE, ARKANSAS, AFTER KIOVING HIM FOR ONLY 5 WEEKS.

SHE DIVORCED HIM IN JUNE, 1975 AT HUNISVILLE, ALABAIA. WILSON TOLD

HEP. HE WAS 42 YEARS OLD AND HE WORKED AS A JEWELER. DURING THEIR

MARRIAGE WILSON DRANK FAEQUENTLY AND WOULD BECOME CRAZY, RAMBLING,

AND SILLY, ALTHOUGH NEVER VIOLENT. HE WOULD 'FREQUENTLY TELL HER

"WILD" UNTRUE STORIES INCLUDING THAT HE WAS IN THE MAFIA. SHE LEFT

HI BECAUSE OF HIS INSTABILITY AND THE FACT HE WAS RECEIVING DIAMONS.

THAT HE APPAKENTLY. WAS NOT PAYING

FOR.

SHE IS NOT AWARE OF WILSON

62-544-48

SEAPONED

_INP2XS

CESALE ONATO

A6CR6. 1978

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 198

Waits pr

---

## Page 199

PAGE TWO ME 44-1997 SUB M

EVER BEING INSTITUTINALIZED FOR MENIAL PROBLEMS, ALTHOUGH HE WAS

SUPPOSEDLY JAILED AT NEW BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS IN 1975, AFTER THEIR

DIVORCE.

SINCE DIVIRCE, WILSON CALLS HER. FREQUENTLY AND ON THIS

PASI THURSDAY, 8-17-78, HE PHONED AI ABOUT 10 TO 10:30 P.l. CENTRAL

DAYLIGHI TIME. HER SON, LANCE AGE 14, ANSWERED THE PHONE BUT SHE

LISTENED ON THE EXTENSION. WILSON WAS VERY DRUNK AND TOLD LANCE KE

WOULD BE ON IV SOON AS HE HAD KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING• WILSON

• SAID, THE FBI WOULD ARREST HIM SOON THEN HUNG UP.

THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME WILSON EVER MENTIONED KING AS THE

TOPIC OF KING'S ASSASSINATION NEVER

CALE UP DURING THEIR MARRAIGE.

WILSON HAS NEVER MENTIONED JAMES EARL RAY TO HER. SHE KNOWS NONE

OF WILSON'S ASSOCIATES AND DOES NOI KION WHERE HE WAS IN APRIL,

1968 .

MRS. HUNTER ADVISED WILSON'S STORY ABOUT KILLING KING WAS

ATTENT ON HIS PART TO GAIN ATTENTION.

BI.

232 17424 JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 199

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## Page 200

1iE09J3 23217367

00 HO JN

DE ME

0 2017302 AUG 78

FI MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON IMMEDIATE

BT UNCLAS EFT O

ATIN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 3988 JEH.

MURKI W

RE JACKSON TEL TO BUREAU 8-19-78. •

08 8-19-78, IRS- AVIS LHEA HUNTER, NEE PRUETI, C 103,

RAVENWOOD APARIMENIS, 1005 HICKORY HILL LANE, NASHVILLE, TEA,

ADVISED AS FOLLOWS:

SHE MARRIED BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, AKA, BILL ON 12-31-74

AT MOUNTAIN HOME, ARKANSAS, AFTER KNOWING HIM FOR ONLY 5 WEEKS.

SHE DIVORCED HIM IN JUNE, 1975 AT HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA. WILSON TOLD

HER HE WAS 42 YEARS OLD AND HE WORKED AS A JEWELER. DURING THEIR

MARRIAGE WILSON DRANK FREQUENTLY AND WOULD BECOME CRAZY, RAMBLING,

AND SILLY, ALTHOUGH NEVER VIOLENT. HE WOULD FREQUENILY TELL HER

"WILD" UNTRUE SIORIES INCLUDING THAT HE WAS IN THE MAFIA. SHE LEFT

HIM BECAUSE OF HIS INSTABILITY. AND THE FACT HE WAS RECEIVING DIAMONS

THAI HE OPPARENTLY VAS SOT PAYING FOR. SHE IS NOI AVARE OF VILSON

62-544-48

• Dies Op

is7o

_ NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 200

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## Page 201

PAGE TWO ME 44-1937 SUB I

EVER BEING INSTITUTI TALIZED FOR HENAL PROBLEMS, ALTHOUGH HE VAS

SUPPOSEDLY JAILED AT NEW BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS IN 1975 AFTER THEIR.

DIVORCE.

SINCE DIVIRCE, VILSON CALLS HER FREQUENTLY AND. ON THIS

PAST IHURSDAY, 8-17-78, HE PHONED AI ABOUT 10 TO 10:30 POll, CENTRAL

DAYLIGHT TIME. HER SOW, LANCE AGE 14, ANSWERED THE PHONE BUT SHE

LISTENED ON THE EXTENSION. VILSON WAS VERY DRUNK AND TOLD LANCE HE

WOULD BE ON IV SOON AS HE HAD KILLED MARTIN LUTHER KING• WILSON

SAID THE FBI WOULD ARREST HIM SOON THEN HUNG UP:

THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME WILSON EVER MENTIONED KING AS THE

TOPIC OF KING'S ASSASSINATION NEVER CAME UP DURING THEIR MARRAIGE.

WILSON HAS NEVER MENTIONED JAMES EARL RAY TO HER. SHE KNOWS NONE

OF WILSON'S ASSOCIATES AND DOES NOT KROW WHERE HE WAS IN APRIL,

19G8. HRS. HUNTEE ADVISED WILSON'S STORY ABOUT KILLING KING WAS

AITENPT ON HIS PART TO GAIN ATTENTION.

BT.

232 17427 JN 1

- NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 201

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## Page 202

•BH0363 2312218

PP HQ ME JN

DE BT

P. 182213Z AUG 78

FIN

BIRMINGHAM (44-1740) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) (PPIORITY) .

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) (PRIORITY)

JACKSON (62-544) (PRIORIIY)

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTN CONGRESSIONAL

INQUIRIES UNII, ROOM 8938 JEH.

MURKIN

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR AND OTHER OFFICES,

AUG = 19,.1978.

ON AUG. 19, 1978, MR. ALLISON I. WILSON, P. D. BOX 23,

(HIGHWAY 17 SOUIH), REFORM, ALAO, ADVISED THAI BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON IS HIS BROTHER AND' HAS FOR MANY YEARS BEEN AN ALCOHOLIC

AND IS A CONFIRMED LIAR AND THINKS OF HIMSELF AS A RETIRED

COLONEL AND POSES AS A VIET NAM VETERAN WHEN HE IS DRUNK.

HE

STATED THAI HIS BROTHER HAS OFTEN CONFESSED TO VARIOUS CRIMES

IN ORDER TO BE LOCKED UP SO HE WILL BE ABLE

2-544-49

WILSON STATED HE CAN THINK OF ONLY ONE SPECIFI GUNNE-

SERIALIZED OT

NUG 2 0 1978

FBI-JACKSON

Balsane, I

Wants fu

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 202

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## Page 203

PAGE TWO

BH 44-1740

UNCLAS EF I O

BROTHER CONFESSED TO A CRIME AND WAS LOCKED UP IN NEW BROWNSVILLE,

TEXAS. HE COULD NOT RECALL THE DATE OR THE SPECIFIC CRIME.

MR. WILSON SIATED THAT THE FAMILY HAD RECENTLY SOLD HIS

FATHER'S HOME AND HIS BROTHER

WAS SENT HIS SHARE WHICH WAS •

$2,D75. HE FEELS IHAT HIS BROTHER AT THE PRESENT TIME IS ON A

"TOOT"• MR. WILSON SIATED THAT. HIS BROTHER HAD RECENILY CALLED

THEIR SISTER, MRS. LYDA MC GAHA, COLUMBUS, MISS., AND TOLD HER

THAT HE, ALLISON I: WILSON, HAD. HAD A HEARI ATTACK AND WAS ALMOST

DEAD. MR. WILSON STATED THAI HE RECALLS ON ONE OCCASION, HIS

BROTHER CALLED HIM AND TOLD HIM THAT HE HAD BEEN ELECIED MAYOR

OF GRANDVIEW, MO., AND HE KNOWS THAI HIS BROTHER WAS LIVING AT

GRANDVIEW; 110. AND OPERATING A JEWELRY STORE OIN APRIL 4, 1963=

HE STATED AT THIS TIME HIS BROTHER WAS MARRIED IO BETTY WADE,

WHO PRESENILY RESIDES 233 SMITH STREET, BURLESON, TEXAS.

HE STATED THAI HIS BROTHER'S SON, STEVE WILSON, 117' LIVINGSTON,

FT. WORTH, TEXAS, AND HIS DAUGHTER, IFS. CHARLES (DEBBIE) JONES,

2628 NEWBURG ROAD, TRAILER 196, BELVIDERE, ILL., WAS LIVING AT

HOME AT THIS TIME, AND THEY WOULD BE ABLE TO CONFIRM THIS ALSO.

MR. WILSON CONC LUDED BY STATING HIS BROTHER WOULD NOI BE ABLE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 203

---

## Page 204

PAGE THREE

BH 44-L748

UNCLAS EFTO

TO COMMIT A CRIME OF VIOLENCE INASMUCH AS HE OWLY WANTED TO

GET SOMETHING TO DRINK AND GET DRUNK.

B T

REC ONE TEL JN CLR TO U

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 204

---

## Page 205

BH0363 2312218

PP HQ ME JU

DE BT

P 182218Z AUG 78

FM BIRMINGHAM (44-1740) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-35861) (PRIORITY)

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) (PRIORITY)

JACKSON (62-544) (PRIORITY)

UNCLAS E FIO

AITH CONGRESSIORAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988 JEH.

BURKIN.

RE MENPHIS TELETYPE TO DIRECIOR AND OTHER OFFICES,

AUG• 19, 1978.

ON AUG. 19, 1978, MR. ALLISON I. WILSON, P. O. BOX 23,

(HIGHUAY 17 SOUTH), REFORM, ALA., ADVISED THAT BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON IS HIS BROTHER AND HAS FOR MANY YEARS BEEN AN ALCOHOLIC

AND IS A CONFIRMED LIAR AND THINKS OF HIMSELF AS A RETIRED

COLONEL AND POSES AS A VIET NAM VETERAN WHEW HE IS DRUNK. HE .

STATED THAT HIS BROTHER HAS OFTEN CONFESSED TO VARIOUS CRIMES

IN ORDER TO BE LOCKED UP SO HE WILL BE ADLE TO GET SOBER. MR.

WILSON STATED HE CAN THINK OF ONLY DIE SPECIFIC TINE I HAT HIS

62-544-49

S 0XA013

ANG Z 0 1970

_FE:- 195

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 205

---

## Page 206

PAGE TWO

BH 44-1740

UNCLAS EF TO

BROTHER CONFESSED TO A CRIME AND WAS LOCKED UP IN NEV BROUISVILLE,

TEXAS. HE COULD NOI RECALL THE DATE OR THE SPECIFIC CRIME.

MR. WILSON SIATED THAI THE FAMILY HAD RECENTLY SOLD HIS

FATHER'S HOME AND HIS BROTHER WAS SENT HIS SHARE WHICH WAS

• 52,075• HE FEELS THAI HIS BROTHER AT THE PRESENT TIME IS ON A

"TOOT". OR. WILSON STATED IHAI HIS BROIKER HAD RECENTLY GALLED

THEIR SISTER, IRS. LYDA MO GAHA, COLUMBUS, MISSO, AND TOLD HER

THAT HE, ALLISON I. WILSON, HAD

HAD A HEART ATTACK AND WAS ALMOST

DEAD. MIR, WILSON STATED THAT HE RECALLS O ONE OCCASION, HIS

BROTHER CALLED HIM AND TOLD HIM THAT HE HAD BEEN ELECIED MAYOR

OF GRANDVIEV, RD. AND HE KNOWS THAT HIS BROTHER WAS LIVING AT

GRANDVIEW, NO. AND OPERATING A JOVELRY STORE ON APRIL 4, 1968.

HE STATED AT THIS TIME HIS BROTHER WAS MARRIED TO BETTY WADE,

WHO PRESENILY RESIDES 233 SMIIH STRECT, DURLESON, TEXAS.

HE STATED THAI HIS BROTHER*S SON, STEVE WILSON, 117 LIVINGSTON,

FI. WORTH, TEXAS, AUD MIS DAUGHTER, MRS. CHARLES (DEBBIE) JONES,

2628 DEWBURG ROAD, TRAILER 10G, BELVIDERE, ILLO, VAS LIVING AI

HOME AI THIS TIME, AND THEY WOULD BE ABLE TO CONFIRM THIS ALSO.

MIR. WILSON CONC LUDED BY STATING HIS BROTHER WOULD NOT BE ABLE

NW 65994_Docld:32989768Page 206

---

## Page 207

PAGE THERE

BH 44-L748

UNGLAS EFTO

TO COIIII A CRIME OF VIOLENCE INASHUCH AS HE ONLY WANTED TO

GET SOMETHING TO DRINK AND GET DRUNK,

BI.,

REC ONE TEL AN CLA TO U

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 207

---

## Page 208

ME02 2321500Z 16202

100 HQ DL JN

DE ME

0 201505Z AG 78

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDATE

JACKSON

IMMEDATE

BT

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTN CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNII, ROOM 8988 JEH.

MUR KIN®

RE DALLAS TEL TO BU 8-19-73.

CHIACAGO TEL 10 BU 8-20-78, NO COPY. TO DALLAS.

FOR INFORMATION DALLAS, ON 8-19-73 DEBRA ANN JONES, BELVIDERE,

ILLINOIS, DAUGHTER OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, ADVISED WILSON FAMILY

RESIDED KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI FROM 1964 TO SEPTEMBER, 1968. IN

1968 HER FATHER GAVE HER 1965 WHITE MUSTANG AS GRADUATION PRESENI.

SHE NEVER DRIVOVE THIS VEHICLE

TO MEMPHIS, TENiV. SHE AND HER

MOTHER, BETTY LOU WADE VISITED HER NATERNAL GRANDFATHER, VERNON

HOOTEN, WHO WAS IN HOSPITAL AI MEMPHIS, AT TIME OF THE KING MURDER.

THEY USED COUMERCIAL AIRLINE FOR ROUNDIR IP TRANSPORTATION, • DURING

TIME THEY WERE IN MEMPHIS AREA BETTY WADE TELEPHONI CALLY

62 - 544-SO CTED

HER

HUSBAND, BURGESS WILSON. TWO TIMES IN KANSAS

CITY

WHERE HE REMAINED

EMFLRO1OO-

AUC? : 1978

AS-JACKSU

Futeau

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 208

Waits p

---

## Page 209

PAGE TWO ME -44

WITH HER TWO BROTHERS, STEVEN AND MARK WILSON.

BURGESS

WILSON WHO WAS INTOXICATED, TELEPHONED DEBRA JONES ON

EVENING OF 8-17-78 AND TOLD HER FBI WAS GOING TO PUT HIM IN JAIL

FOR THE MURDER OF KING AND THAT FBI HAD GIVEN HIM A POLYGRAPH TEST.

HE TOLD HER SHE WOULD BE CONTACIED BY THE FBI AND TOLD HER TO SAY

NOTHING •

MRS. OPAL HOOTEN, MOTHER OF DETTY LOU WADE, CONTACTED.

8-218-78 AND UNABLE TO RECALL VISIT OF BOTH BETTY LOU WADE AND DEBRA

JONES ON OCCASIONS HER HUSBAND VERNON HOOTEN SUFFERED HEART ATIACKS,

BUT RECALLS BETTY LOU WADE VISITING ON OCCASIONS WHEN BOTH SHE AHE

MR. HOOTEN WERE ILL. SHE-WAS UNABLE TO FURNISH SPECIFIC DATES

BUT WILL CHECK FAMILY MEDICAL RECORDS AND ATTEMP TO ESTABLISH

SPECIFIC DATES OF MA. HOOTEN'S ILLNESSES.

DALLAS WILL REC ONIACI BETTY LOU WADE REGARDING VISIT TO MEMPHIS

NOTED ABOVE AND ATTEMPT IO CLARIFY INFORMATION SHE. PREVIOUSLY

FURNISHED REGARDING LACK OF OWNERSHIP OR ACCESS TO WHITE MUSTANG

VEHICLE BY WILSON. INTERVIEW STEVEN AND MARK ANTHONY WILSON FOR

FULL BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND VERACITY OF BURGESS WILSON'S

ALLEGATIONS THI HE KILLED DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING. DETERMINE

HIS WHEREABOUIS DURING CRITICAL PERIOD OF 4-4-68 AND WHETHER

WILSON HAS HISTORY OF PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEMS. AITEMPT TO VERIFY

INFORMATION FUPNISHED BY DEBRAJ JONES.

HANDLE IMMEDIATELY AND ADVISE FBING, MEMPHIS AND JACKSON.

BI.

232 1625Z JiN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 209

---

## Page 210

ME032 - 23215307 1603Z

00 HQ DL J"

DE lIE

0 2515334 AG 73

• NEUPHIS

(44-1987 SUB 0)

TO

DILECTOR (44-38561) IMMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDATE

JACASON

IMBEDATE

BIT

URCLAS EFT O

ATTI CONGRESSIONAL INQUIREIES UNIT, ROOM S088 JEH.

"Like ne

RE DALLAS TEL TO BU 8-19-78

CHIACAGO IEL TO BU 3-26-78, NO COPY IO DALLAS.

FOR INFORMATION DALLAS, ON 8-19-78 DEBRA ANN JONES, BELVIDERE,

ILLINOIS, DAUGHTER OF BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, ADVISED VILSON FAMILY

RESIDED KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI FROM 1964 IO SEPTEMBER, 196E. IN

1968 HER FATHER GAVE HER 1965 WHITE MUSTAIG AS GRADUATION PRESENT.

SHE NEVER DRIVOVE THIS VEHICLE TO MEMPHIS, TERN. SHE AND HER

HOTHER, BETTY LOU WADE VISITED HER MATERNAL GRANDFATHER, VERTON

HOOTEL, WHO VAS IN HOSPITAL AI MEMPHIS, AT TIME OF THE KING HURDER..

THEY USED COMMERCIAL AIRLINE FOR ROUNDIR IP TRAUSPORTATION, • DURING

TIME THEY WERE IN WEIPHIS AÑEA BETTY WADE TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED HER

HUSBARD, BURGESS WILSON IVO TINES IN KAISAS CITY WHERE HE REMAINED

62-544-50

ONE OTOS.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 210

---

## Page 211

PAGE TWO ME -44

WITH HER TWO BROTHERS, STEVEN AND MARK WILSON.

BURGESS WILSON WHO WAS INTOXICATED, TELEPHONED DEBRA JONES ON

EVENING OF 8-17-78 AND TOLD HER FBI WAS GOING TO PUT HIM IN JAIL

FOR THE MURDER OF KING AND THAT FBI HAD GIVER HIM A POLYGRAPH TEST.

HE TOLD HER SHE WOULD BE CONTACIED BY THE FBI AID TOLD HER TO SAY

NOTHING.

MRS. OPAL HOOTEN, MOTHER OF BEITY LOU WADE, CONTACTED

8-20-78 AND UNABLE TO RECALL VISIT OF BOTH BETTY LOU WADE AID DEBRA

JONES Of OCCASIONS HER HUSBAND VERNON HOOTER SUFFERED HEART ATTACKS,

BUT RECALLS BETTY LOU WADE VISITING ON OCCASIONS WHEN BOTH SHE AHE

MR. HOOTEN WERE ILL. SHE WAS UNABLE TO FURNISH SPECIFIC DATES

BUT WILL CHECK FAMILY MEDICAL RECORDS AND ATTEUP TO ESTABLISH

SPECIFIC DATES OF IF. HOOTEN'S ILLNESSES..

DALLAS VILL REC ORIACI BETTY LOU VADE REGARDING VISIT TO MEMPHIS

NOTED ABOVE AND ATTEMPT TO CLARIFY INFORMATION SHE PREVIOUSLY

FURNISHED REGARDING LACK OF OVERSHIP OR ACCESS TO WHITE MUSTANG

• VEHICLE BY WILSON, INTERVIEW STEVEN AND MARK ANTHONY WILSON FOR

FULL BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND VERACITY OF BURGESS WILSON'S

ALLEGAIIONS THI HE KILLED DR . MARTIN LUTHER KING. DETERMINE

HIS VHEREABOUIS DURING CRITICAL PERIOD OF 4-4-68 AND WHETHER

WILSON HAS MISTORY OF PSYCHIATRIC PROBLES, ATTENPT TO VERIFY

INFORMATION FURNISHED BY DEBRAS JONES.

HANDLE IPMEDIATELY AND ADVISE FBIHQ, MEMPHIS AID JACKSON.

вт .

232 1635Z JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 211

---

## Page 212

Indices Search Slip

FD-160 (Rev. 3-23-71)

Date

TO. CHIEF CLERK

Subject

Social Security Account #

Aliases

BURGESS ANDIE WILSON, 5R.

Bill Wilson

Address

3095 Ruckin Ad, Memphin

Birth Date

Birthplace

18/28/31 Fullm

-Exact Spelling

Main Criminal Case Files Only

FBI#879-421E

Race

Ms.

W

_ Restrict to Locality of

All References

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive Case Files Only

_ Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

Subversive References Only

_ Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

File & Serial Number

Remarks

File & Serial Number

3287

Tal Hakild" Dewitt RoiltoN

Sex

-Male

Female

Requested by

Searched by

Consolidated by

Reviewed by

Waits

Squad

4

Extension

20

File No.

62-544-51

OKs

(date)

(date)

(date)

File Review Symbols

NI - Not tdent

Not identical

Ủ - Not dentitie ble

Unavailable reference

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 212

2008

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 213

S PECIAL

GP O 909•767

NV 65994-Docld:32989768 Page 213

---

## Page 214

62-544-52

AUG 2 1 1978

FBI-JACKSON

ILCB

NW 65994 Docld:32989768_Page 214

---

## Page 215

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-101

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription August 21, 1978

CARL D. FORTNA, Route 6, Box 387, Ocean Springs,

Mississippi, telephone number 875-0220, was advised of the

PORTIA, Rout

identity of the interviewing Agent and

the nature of the

interview.

FORINA, a white male, born June 2, 1932, in

Kansas,

advised that

srade of high school, and he could read and write.

he completed the tenth

FORTNA stated that he met BILL WILSON in Belton,

Missouri, in 1966 or 1967.

FORTNA was in the Air Force at

this time stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base in

Belton, Missouri.

FORTNA stated that WILSON and WILSON's

wife owned a jewelry store in Belton, Missouri, and that

WILSON was a member of the 442nd Air Force Reserve Unit

stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base.

FORTNA stated

he knew WILSON through their association in the VEW in Belton,

Missouri®

Porce in 1969 and did not see wiLsoN again except for one

FORTNA, retired from the Air

brief moment in 1972 until approximately two months ago.

WILSON came to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, from Lafayette,

Louisiana,

about two months ago and lived

in the Twin Pines

Motel on Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi. On July 23,

1978, WILSON moved into a house owned by FORINA located next

door to FORTNA's present residence.

At approximately 4:15 PM On August 10, 1918, WILSON

asked FORTNA to come into WILSON's house, that he had

something

very important to tell him.

black son-of-a-bitch."

WILSON told FORTNA, "I killed that

FORTNA asked WILSON who he was talking

about, and WILSON replied MARTIN LUTHER KING.

FORTNA stated

that he told WILSON he did not believe him,

and WILSON said,

"I am telling you the truth.

1 actually killed him.

I've

been living with it for ten years, and I can't take it anymore."

WILSON

told FORTNA that MARTIN LUTHER KING was responsible for

WILSON's father's death. WILSON did not elaborate further on

this.

WILSON told FORTNA that this killing was "engineered"

by LOU CRUZ (phonetic). FORTNA stated that he knows LOU CRUZ

and that loU cruz owned or still owns Lou Cruz Jewelry, 1505

Main Street, Grandview, Missouri. WILSON told FORTNA that he

drove to the State Line Airport in Kansas City, Missouri,

driving a new Ford Thunderbird. WILSON told FORTNA that CRUZ

Interviewed on

8/19/78

_acean Springs, Mississippifile# _

Jackson 62-544

by —

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/mae

- Date dictated

8/19/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and ite contents are not to be distribuled outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 215

---

## Page 216

JN 62-544

also owned an identical Ford Thunderbird. WILSON left his

Thunderbird at the airport and flew to Memphis, Tennessee.

CRUZ came to the airport and picked up WILSON'

s Thunderbird

and took it from the airport so it would not be noticed.

When WILSON arrived in Memphis, he borrowed a white Ford

DEBORAH had driven from Kansas City to Memphis in the Mustang•

WILSON told FORTNA that he went to the motel where MARTIN

LUTHER KING was staying and that he used a

Japanese sniper

rifle and shot KING holding the rifle on his hip.

He stated

that this rifle is now in the possession of WILSON's son,

STEVE.

WILSON told FORTNA that he was driving away from the

scene in the Mustang, and he was stopped by the Memphis police,

but he

talked himself out of a ticket, and the car was not

searched.

He stated that the rifle was in the trunk of the

car at this time.

WILSON told FORTNA that he then flew his

airplane back to

Kansas City, and CRUz picked him up at the

airport and took him home.

FORINA stated that when WILSON told him the above

telling the

front of a priest that it was the truth. FORTNA stated that

WILSON had never mentioned this subject

prior to this instance.

'UKINA Stated that WILSON has been drinking heavily for the

ast two months and has lied to him several

times

In the past

two months.

NILSON, on occasion, would tell FORTNA that he

had been married three or four times since divorcing his first

wife and then come back at a later date and say that he had

not been married after divorcing his first wife.

FORTNA stated that WILSON is an excellent pilot,

that he, FORINA, has flown with WILSON through bad weather,

and WILSON had no problems flying the aircraft.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 216

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## Page 217

OPTIONAL FORM NO. 10

JyLTA573 EDITION

GSA FPMR (41 CFRI 101-11.6

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT

Memorandum

TO

:SAG, JACKSON (62-544)

DATE: 8/18/78

FROM : SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNIER JR.

SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSAS INATIONS;

SUBJECT: AS.'AU "INATION OF DR. MARTIN

LUTHER KING

INFO CONCERNING

On 8/18/78 at 8:13 am the vriter was telephonically

advised hy Jackson Ofice (ASAC MURRAY) that one WILLIAM

at 1:15 am this date adrising he had information congerning

captioned matter. According to GLADDEN, one BILL WILSON, who

works for GLADDEN

a watch repairman, had met run im

Last night and had given him lengthy details of how he (WILSON)

and not JANES EARL RAY, had killed DR. MARTIN LUKHTR KING.

The writer was instructed to make immediate arrangements

to thonoughly interview GLADTEN.

The writer telephoned GLADDEN at his residence and arranged

to meet with GLADDEN there. GLADDEN advised he is employed as

Manager of the Social Security Office in Gulfport, Miss. (tel#

896-3221), but lives in the Gulf Park Estates area of Ocean

Springs. His house is the lst house on the left on Meadowlark

Dr, which is thosecond street to the right after passing the

golf course in Gulf Park 'Estates.

The writer and SA ROYCE D. HIGNIGHT were enroute to GLADDEN'S

residence when instructions were received from Gulfport SRA BEN

GRAVIS to discontinue.

Telephonic inquiry of SRA GRAVES determined FBI HQS had

instructed that no action be taken regarding the foregoing.

GLADDEN was then telephonically advised the FBI apparently

was aware of information in WILSON'S possession and that no

interview of GLADDEN rould be conducted.

62-544-53

Seasons &

Reasons Gift Shop, Hwy 90, Ocean Springs, Miss. (tel

GLADDEN related he and his wife own a gift shop 4875-2531)

This shop is located near

the Keesler AFB Federal Credit Union ano

City Lumber Co. On 7/26/78, BILL WILSON came to the store saying he

was a watch repairman. GLADDEN had never met HILSON before

emplojed him and for a short time, WILsON lived inOle bac

KWS : KwS

AUG & 1 1978

Buy U.S. Savings Bonds Regularly on the Payroll Savings Plan

5010-110

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 217

---

## Page 218

store. (WILSON now lives somewhere in Ocean Springs but GLADDEN

did not have his adiress

at time of this conversation with the

writer.

GLADDEN advised he became aware WILSON apparently has a

drinking problem. At 11:45 pm 0/17/78, WILSON telephoned GLADDEN

at home insisting he had urgent business to discuss with both

GLADDEN and his wife. VILSON

nsisted he meet with the GLADDES

immediately so they met at the gift shop at 12:15 am this date and

conversed for the next Iz hours. WILSON did not appear or act

like he was under the influence of alcohol. The GLADDEN'S 18 year

also present,

According to GLADDEN, WILSON furnished them details of how

he (WILSON) had killed DR. KING rather than JAMES EARL RAY.

GLADDEN stated he feels orr ather felt at the time, WILSON was

truthful in what he was telling them and that is why he promptly

contacted the

• FBI in Jackson.

No further details were asked of GLADDEN by thew riter and

he was advised he would

be recontacted in the event further

information was required.

GLADDEN advised he will probably terminate WILSON'S employment

as a result of this matter.

Per instructions of ASAC MURRAY, no further action being

taken.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 218

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## Page 219

• H00 002 23318002

00 HQ DL ME JN

DE HO

0 211555Z AUG 78

FM HOUSTON (44-1589)

RUC)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

DALLAS IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987) (SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, EJH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE JACKSON TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR, AUGUST 19, 1978;

•HOUSTON TELETYPE TO DIRECIOR, AUGUST 2D, 1978.

ON AUGUST 21, 1978, THE FOLLOWING PERSONS AT THEIR

RESPECTIVE AGENCIES WERE CONTACIED WITH NEGATIVE RESULTS

CONCERNING THE ISSUANCE OF A NON-CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT OR ANY

TYPE OF CIVIL OR CRIMINAL PROCESS CONCERNING A BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR.:

SEARCHED

62-544-54

SERIALIZED _ NFLED

AUG 2 1 7873

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 219

---

## Page 220

rom

PAGE TWO HO 44-1509 UNCLAS

1. GLENN JONES, CITY JUDGE, CLEVELAND, TEXAS;

2. LOUIS HOUGH, SECRETARY FOR JACK HARTELL,

COUNTY ATTORNEY, LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS;

3. LOUISE MORRIS, CLERK, LIBERTY COUNTY DISTRICT

COURT, LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS;

4. NELL WHITTINGION, IDENTIFICATION DIVISION,

LIBERTY COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, LIBERTY, TEXAS.

FOR INFORMATION, THE SUBJECI MAY HAVE BEEN REFERRING TO

CLEBURNE, TEXAS, RATHER THAN CLEVELAND, TEXAS, INASMUCH AS

CLEBURNE IS RELATIVELY CLOSE TO DALLAS WHERE SUBJECT WAS

ARRESTED ON THE NON-CHILD SUPPORT WARRANT

LEADS. DALLAS AT CLEBURNE, TEXAS. WILL COVER LEAD AS SET

OUT FOR HOUSTON AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS, IN. ABOVE REFERENCED

ACKSON TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR, AUGUST 19, 1978.

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 220

---

## Page 221

= *=

HOO GE2 2331800

00 H2 DL ME JU

DE HO

0 211555Z AUG 78

Fil MOUSTON (44-1509) RUC)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

DALLAS INMEDIATE

REMPHIS (44 1987) (SUB M) IMMEDIATE •

JACKSON (02-544) - IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8038, EUH.

MURKIl; 00: MEMPHIS •

RE JACKSON TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR, AUGUST 19, 1978;

HOUSTON TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR, AUGUST ED, 1978.

Of AUGUST 21, 1975, THE FOLLOVING PERSONS AI THEIR

RESPECTIVE AGENCIES WERE CONTACTED WITH NEGATIVE RESULTS

CONCERNIRG THE ISSUANCE OF A NON-CHILD SUPPORI VARRANT OR ANY

TYPE OF CIVIL OR CRIMINAL PROCESS CONCERNING A BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, UR .:

SERIALIZED

SEATED LAR NO LI

AU: 21 1970

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 221

---

## Page 222

PAGE TWO NO 44-1569 UNCLAS

La GLENN JONES, CITY JUDGE, CLEVELAID, IEXAS;

2. LOUIS HOUGH, SECRETARY FOR JACK HARTELL,

COUNTY AITORNEY, LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS;

3. LOUISE MORRIS, CLERK, LIBERTY COUNTY DISTRICT

COURI, LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS;

40 NELL WHITTINGTON, IDENTIFICATION DIVISION,

LIBERTY COUNTY SHERIFF*S OFFICE, LIDERTY, TEXAS.

FOR INFORMATION, THE SUBJECT AY HAVE BEEN REFERRItS TO

GLEBURNE, TEXAS, RATHER THAN CLEVELAND, TEXAS, INASIUCH AS

CLEBURNE IS RELATIVELY CLOSE TO DALLAS WHERE SUBJECT VAS

ARRESTED ON THE NON-CHILD SUPPORT WARRANI •

LEADS, DALLAS AT CLEBURNE, TEXAS+

VILL COVER LEAD AS SET

OUZ FOR HOUSTON AT CLEVELAND, TEXAS, IN ABOVE REFERENCED

ACKSON TELETYPE TO DIRECTOR, AUGUST. 19, 1978%

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768• Page 222

---

## Page 223

Atlanta

Copy

---

## Page 224

This VoL. Complete

•See nexT

VOL.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 224

---

## Page 225

See SepeRate

1 -

Uo L.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 225

---

## Page 226

DLO 895 2332155Z

00 HQ ME JN

DE DL

0 21 21032 AUG

78

FM DALLAS (44-2649) RUC)

TO DIRECTOR

(44-33861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987) (SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE MEMPHIS TELCALL TO DALLAS, AUGUST 21, 1978.

BY REFERENCE, MEMPHIS REQUESTED STEPHEN WAYNE WILSON

BE RECONTACIED RE HIS KNOWLEDGE OF JAPANESE SNIPER

RIFLE WHICH HIS FATHER, BURGESS AUDIE. WILSON, ALLEGED TO

HAVE OBTAINED FROM A MITCH, NO DATE INDICATED.

STEPHEN WAYNE WILSON, 3117 LIVINGSTON, FORT WORTH,

TEXAS, CONTACTED ON AUGUST 21, 1978, AND ADVISED. AS

FOLLOWS :

THE VILSONS VERE CLOSELY-KNIT FAMILY, AND WERE VERY SYN-SS

NDEXES

ERIALIZED AROFILED KE

AURAT 1973

FEI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 226

---

## Page 227

UNCLAS DL 44-2649 PAGE TWO

CONSCIOUS OF EACH OTHER'S ACTIVITIES. HE IS POSITIVE

HIS FATHER OBTAINED THE JAPANESE RIFLE FROM AN UNKNOWN

SOURCE AFTER HE WAS IN THE MILITARY SERVICE, WHICH WOULD

HAVE BEEN AFTER 1970. RECALLED HIS DAD SHOWING IT TO

HIM WHEN HE CAME HOME ON MILITARY LEAVE. STEVEN NEVER

FIRED THE WEAPON BECAUSE HE WAS AFRAID THAT IT WOULD NOT

FUNCTION PROPERLY, AND SECONDLY, BECAUSE THEY NEVER HAD

ANY AMMUNITION FOR THE RIFLE. HE PERSONALLY NEVER KNEW

OF HIS DAD USING THE WEAPON. HIS DAD HAD THE STOCK OF

THE WEAPON WORKED ON BY A FRIEND WHO WAS A FURNITURE

REFINISHER IN CANYON LAKE, TEXAS, BUT THAT WAS THE

ONLY WORK EVER DONE ON THE RIFLE. THE GUN WAS OF JAPANESE

MANUFACTURER, AS IT HAD JAPANESE PRINTING ON ITS VARIOUS

PARTS .

WILSON'S DAD GAVE THE GUN TO HIM WHILE HE WA'S IN THE

SERVICE, AND HE HOCKED THE RIFLE AT A PAWN SHOP IN SAN

ANTONIO SOMETIME IN THE EARLY 1970°S, DATE UNRECALLED.

HE HAS NO RECEIPT OR BILL OF LADING FOR THE RIFLE.

MARK WILSON, 514 SOUTHEAST GARDENS, BURLESON, TEXAS,

CONTACTED AUGUST 21, 1978, AND ADVISED THE FOLLOWING :

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 227

---

## Page 228

UNCLAS DL 44-2649 PAGE THREE

HE PERSONALLY HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF HIS FATHER'S

WEAPONS, AS HE HAS NO INTEREST IN THEM. HIS DAD WAS

DEFINITELY AT HOME IN GRANDVIEW, TEXAS, TAKING CARE OF

HIMSELF AND HIS BROTHER AT THE TIME DR. KING WAS KILLED

IN MEMPHIS. HIS DAD FLEW HIS PLANE, A BONANZA BEECH-

CRAFT, USUALLY ON WEEKENDS, FROM A SMALL AIRFIELD NEAR

TOWN. HE BELIEVED HIS DAD OWNED THE PLANE, HOWEVER ,

HE IS NOT POSITIVE. WILSON STATED HIS DAD WAS NOI AWAY

FROM THE HOUSE ON THE DAY DR. KING WAS KILLED, AS HE

WAS TAKING CARE OF HIS BROTHER AND HIMSELF AT THE TIME,

WHILE HIS MOTHER AND SISTER FLEW TO MEMPHIS TO SEE THEIR

GRANDPARENTS.

MRS. BETTY LOU WADE, 233 SMITH ROAD, BURLESON,

TEXAS, RECONTACTED ON AUGUST 21, 1978, AND ADVISED THAT

SHE HAD NO RECOLLECTION OF HER FORMER HUSBAND HAVING

A JAPANESE RIFLE. SHE STATED SHE SEPARATED FROM BURGESS

WILSON IN 1974, WHICH WOULD MEAN HE MOST PROBABLY

OBTAINED THE RIFLE AFTER THAI PERIOD. SHE IS SURE SHE

WOULD HAVE BEEN AWARE OF THE GUN, IF HE HAD BOUGHT IT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 228

---

## Page 229

UNCLAS DL 44-2649 PAGE FOUR

WHILE THEY WERE LIVING TOGETHER •

ADMINISTRATIVE

DALLAS IS NOT COVERING LEAD AT CLEBURNE, TEXAS,

REGARDING NON-CHILD SUPPORT WARRANI FOR WILSON, AS IT

HAS NO BEARING ON PERTINENT FACIS OF CASE, UACB.

BT

223 1 2304Z JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 229

---

## Page 230

DLO 895 23321557

00 HQ ME JH

DE DL

0 21 21052 AUs 78

FIl DALLAS. (44-2649) GUC)

TO DIRECTOR (44-338G1) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987) (SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSOU (62-544) IMEDIATE

BI

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEl.

NURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE MEMPHIS TELCALL TO DALLAS, AUGUST 21, 1978.

BY REFERENCE, MENPHIS REQUESTED STEPHEN WAYNE WILSON

BE RECULTACIED RE HIS KHOVLEDGE OF JAPANESE CHIPER

RIFLE WHICH HIS FATHER, BURGESS AUDIE VILSON, ALLEGED IO

HAVE OSTAINED FROM A MITCH, NO DATE INDICATED

STEPHEN VAYNE WILSON, 3117 LIVINGSTON, FORT WORTH,

TEXAS, CONTACIED OU AUGUST 21, 1978 AND ADVISED AS

FOLLOWS :

THE MILSONS VERE CLOSELY-INIT FAVILY, ALD VERE VERY

62-544-55

SEARCHED

SERIE DICER O LEA

AUG & 1 1978

ER-ACKSON

1225

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 230

---

## Page 231

UNCLAS DL. 44-2649 PAGE INO

CONSCIOUS OF EACH OTHER*S ACTIVITIES, HE IS POSITIVE

HIS FATHER OBTAINED THE JAPANESE RIFLE FROM All UNKNOWN

SOURCE AFTER HE VAS IN THE MILITARY SERVICE, WHICH WOULD

HAVE BEEN AFTER 1976€ RECALLED HIS DAD SHOWING IT TO

HI WHEW HE CAME HOME OU MILITARY LEAVE • STEVE! WEVER

FIRED THE WEAPON BECAUSE HE WAS AFRAID THAT IT WOULD NOT

FUCTION PROPERLY, AND SECONDLY, BECAUSE THEY NEVER HAD

AlLY ANMUNITION FOR THE RIFLE. HE PERSONALLY NEVER KNEW

OF HIS DAD USING THE WEAPOW. HIS DAD. HAD THE STOCK OF

THE WEAPON WORKED ON BY A FRIEND WHO WAS A FURNITURE

REFINISHER IN CAlYOU LAKE, TEXAS, BUT THAI HAS THE

OKLY WORK EVER DONE ON THE RIFLE. THE GUN WAS OF JAPANESE

MANUFACTURER, AS IT HAD JAPANESE PRINTING ON ITS VARIOUS

PARIS •

WILSON*S DAD GAVE THE GUN TO HIM WHILE HE WAS IN THE

SERVICE, AND HE HOCKED THE RIFLE AI A PAVI SHOP IN SAN

ANTONIO SOMETINE IN THE EARLY 1970'S, DATE UNRECALLED.

HE HAS NO RECEIPT OR BILL OF LADING FOR THE RIFLE.

MARK WILSOU; 514 SOUTHEAST GARDENS, BURLESON, TEXAS,

COLTACTED AUGUST 21, 1978, AND ADVISED THE FOLLOWING:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 231

---

## Page 232

-71995-29971

UNCLAS DL 44-2649 PAGE TIREE

HE PERSONALLY HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF HIS FATHER*S

WEAPONS, AS HE HAS NO INTEREST IN THEM. HIS DAD WAS

DEFINITELY AI HOME IN GRANDVIEU, TEXAS, TAKING GARE OF

HIMSELF AND HIS BROTHER AT THE TIME DR. KING WAS KILLED

IN MEMPHIS. HIS DAD FLEW HIS PLANE, A BONANZA BEECH-

CRAFT, USUALLY ON WEEKENDS, FROG A SlALL AIRFIELD lEAR

TOUD. HE BELIEVED HIS DAD ONED THE PLANE, HOWEVER ,

HE IS NOT POSITIVE, WILSON STATED HIS DAD WAS NOT AWAY

FROM THE HOUSE ON THE DAY DR • KIKG WAS KILLED, AS HE

WAS TAKING CARE OF HIS BROTHER AND HIMSELF AT- THE TIVE,

WHILE HIS MOIHER AND SISTER FLEW TO MEMPHIS TO SEE THEIR

GRANDPARENIS -

URS - BETTY LOU VADE, 233 SMITH ROAD, BURLESON,

TEXAS, RECOTACIED ON AUGUSI 21, 1975, AND ADVISED IHAI

SHE HAD NO RECOLLECIION OF HER FORMER HUSBAND HAVING

A JAPANESE RIFLE. SHE STATED SHE SEPARATED FROM BURGESS

WILSOU IN 1974, WHICH WOULD MEAN HE MOST PROSABLY

OBTAINED THE RIFLE AFTER THAT PERIOD. SHE IS SURE SHE

WOULD HAVE BEEN AVARE OF THE QUU, IF HE HAD BOUGHT IT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 232

---

## Page 233

UNCLAS DL. 44-2649 PAGE FOUR

WHILE THEY VERE LIVING TOGETHER •

ADMINISTRATIVE

DALLAS IS NOT COVERING LEAD AT CLEBURNE, TEXAS,

REGARDING NON-CHILD SUPPORI WARRANT FOR WILSON, AS IT

HAS NO BEARING ON PERTIENT FACIS OF CASE, UACE.

223 1

23042 JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 233

---

## Page 234

SA0 109 23322302

II HQ ME JN

DE SA

I 2022307 AUG 78

FM SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987, SUB M.) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS EFT O

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING.

MURKIN®

RE ME TEL TO BUREAU, ET AL, AUGUST 18, 1978, AND SA TEL IO

BUREAU, AUGUST 18, 1978, REGARDING INCARCERATION OF BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., IN BEXAR COUNTY JAIL, JUNE 19, 1972, IO

JUNE 3D, 1972, ON CONTEMPT OF COURI, STATE DISTRICT COURT 59,

(CASE NUMBER F248084) •

ON AUGUST 21, 1978, REVIEW OF COURT RECORDS, BEXAR COUNTY

5 TIH DISTRICI COURT, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, REVEALED WILSON

INCARCERATED FOR CONTEMPT OF COURT GROWING OUT OF CIVIL SUIT

ENTITLED ALLISON - KAUFMANN COMPANY, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION

VS. NORTH STAR DIAMOND CORPORATION (CASE NUMBER F248-084) OF

62-544-56

1973

NMY 65994 Docld 32009768-Page 224

---

## Page 235

PAGE TWO (SA 44 - 1242) UNCLAS EFT O

WHICH WILSON WAS LISTED AS OWNER. THIS CIVIL SUIT INVOLVED

FRAUD CASE AND WILSON INCARCERATED FOLLOWING HIS REFUSAL TO

FURNISH THE COURT AN INVENTORY OF MERCHANDISE IN HIS POSSESSION

BELONGING TO ALLISON - KAUFMANN COMPANY. THIS INCARCERATION

DID NOI INVOLVE ANY ACTION GROWING OUT OF CHILD SUPPORT AND

IDENTITY OF CHILDREN NOT SET FORTH IN COURT RECORDS.

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 235*

---

## Page 236

-

SA0 109 23322352

II HQ ME JN

DE SA

I 2022382 AUG 78

FM SAU ANTONIO (44-1242) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38361) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS 644-1987, SUB MO) INMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) INNEDIATE

BT

UNGLAS EFTO

ATTENTION: CORGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNII, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING.

MURK It.

RE ME TEL TO BUREAU, ET AL, AUGUSI 18, 1978, AND SA TEL IO

BUREAU, AUGUST 18, 1978, REGARDIRG INCARCERATION OF BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., IN BEXAR COUNTY JAIL, JUNE 19, 1972, TO

JULE 30, 1972, ON CORTEIPT OF COURI, STATE DISTRICT COURT 59,

(CASE NUMBER F248084).

ON AUSUST 21, 1975, REVIED OF COURT RECORDS, BEXAR COUNTY

5TH DISTRICT COURT, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, REVEALED VILSON

INGAR CERATED FOR

CONTEMPT OF COURT GROWING OUT OF CIVIL SUIT

ENTITLED ALLISON - KAUFMANN COIPANY, A CALIFORHIA CORPORATIOU

VS. NORTH STAR DIAMOND CORPORATION (CASE WUMBER F248-084) OF

62-544-56

idrd

7,3C

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 236

---

## Page 237

oat.

PAGE TWO (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS EFT O

WHICH WILSON WAS LISTED AS OUNER. THIS CIVIL SUIT INVOLVED

FRAUD CASE AND WILSON INCARCERATED FOLLOWING HIS REFUSAL TO

FURNISH IHE COURT AU INVENTORY OF MERCHANDISE. IM HIS POSSESSION

BELONGING TO ALLISON - KAUFMANU COMPANY. THIS INCARCERATION

DID NOT INVOLVE ANY ACTION GROVING OUT OF CHILD SUPPORI AND

IDENTITY OF CHILDREN NOT SET FORTH IN COURT RECORDS.

BT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 237

---

## Page 238

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

Photographs and major case fingerprints were taken of

also known as "BILL" at the Ocea

Interviewed on

8/19/78

at Ocean Springs, Mississippfile# Jackson 62-544 - 57

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./gah

Date dictated _ 8/21/78

This does t ond is onither ree motto be districed olusion you the Bly. It is the property of the FBI and is Loaned bo

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 238

---

## Page 239

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

On August 19, 1978, Desk Sergeant LAURA MIZE, Ocean

springs, Mississippi,

Police Department, advised that one

of the Ocean Springs, Mississippi, Police, Patrolman BOBBY

RACHUBA had taken breakfast to inmate "BILL" WILSON at

approximately 8:30 a.m., that date at which time Officer

RACHUBA asked WILSON if

he was ready to sign papers waiving

extradition to the state of lexas on a probation violation.

According to Desk Sergeant MIZE, WILSON replied that he was,

but prior to signing any waiver of extradition he wanted

to talk to the FBI.

Interviewed on

8/19/78

-at Ocean Springs, Mississippile # _Jackson 62-544 - 58

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER,

JR./ gah

Date dictated _ 8/21/78

Yous decey; it contains onither recent to be distributed luside go the . It io the property of the Bl and is loaned 50.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 239

---

## Page 240

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

Officer BOBBY RACHUBA, Ocean Springs, Mississippi,

August De men ye was delivering breakfast to inmates of

August 19,

the Ocean Springs City Jail. At the direction of Police

Jesk Sergeant LAURA MIZE, he personally asked inmate "BILL'

WILSON whether he was ready to sign a waiver of extradition

to the State of Texas. According to Officer RACHUBA, WILSON

replied,

ral first les, on one condition, provided I can talk to the

Interviewed on 8/19/78

-at Ocean Springs, Mississippile # Jackson 62-544 -59

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER,

JR./ gab

Date dictated _ 8/21/78

This deny it contains onther romeo at dis ou con lusion south l, It is the property of the Br and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 240

---

## Page 241

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

Xx Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

XX Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

0 TOP SECRET

• SECRET

O CONFIDENTIAL

XX EF TO

O CLEAR

Date

8/22/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) PRIORITY 15567

KANSAS CITY IMMEDIATE

1539 ₴

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY 1645₴

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

CARL D. FORTNA, ROUTE 6, BOX 387, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI,

STATED THAT HE MET BILL WILSON IN BELTON, MISSOURI, IN 1966 OR 1967.

FORTNA WAS IN THE AIR FORCE AT THIS TIME STATIONED AT RICHARDS-

GEBAUER AIR FORCE BASE IN BELTON, MISSOURI. FORTNA STATED THAT

WILSON AND WILSON'S WIFE OWNED A JEWELRY STORE IN BELTON, MISSOURI,

AND THAT WILSON WAS A MEMBER OF THE 442ND AIR FORCE RESERVE UNIT

STATIONED AT RICHARDS-GEBAUER AIR FORCE BASE. FORTNA STATED HE

KNEW WILSON THROUGH THEIR ASSOCIATION IN THE VEW IN BELTON, MISSOURI.

FORTNA STATED THAT HE, FORINA, RETIRED FROM THE AIR FORCE IN 1969

@- JACKSON

LCB/mae

(1) No

62-944-60

Searched_

Surialize Osa

Indexed

Filed

Approved: K/2US

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 241

Transmitted

001

(Number)

see choos

(Time)

Per O5E

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 242

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

7 CLEAR

Date

PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F TO

AND DID NOT SEE WILSON AGAIN EXCEPT FOR ONE BRIEF MOMENT IN 1972

UNTIL APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS AGO. WILSON CAME TO OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, FROM LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA, ABOUT TWO MONTHS AGO AND

LIVED IN THE TWIN PINES MOTEL ON HIGHWAY 90, OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI. ON JULY 23, 1978, WILSON MOVED INTO A HOUSE OWNED BY

FORTNA LOCATED NEXT DOOR TO FORTNA'S PRESENT RESIDENCE.

AT APPROXIMATELY 4:15 PM ON AUGUST 18, 1978, WILSON ASKED

FORINA TO COME INTO WILSON'S HOUSE, THAT HE HAD SOMETHING VERY

IMPORTANT TO TELL HIM. WILSON TOLD FORINA, "I KILLED THAT BLACK

SON-OF-A-BITCH." FORTNA ASKED WILSON WHO HE WAS TALKING ABOUT,

AND WILSON REPLIED MARTIN LUTHER KING. FORTNA STATED THAT HE TOLD

WILSON HE DID NOI BELIEVE HIM, AND WILSON SAID, "I AM TELLING YOU

THE TRUTH. I ACTUALLY KILLED HIM. I'VE BEEN LIVING WITH IT FOR

TEN YEARS, AND I CAN'T TAKE II ANYMORE." WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAI

MARTIN LUTHER KING WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR WILSON'S FATHER'S DEATH.

WILSON DID NOT ELABORATE FURTHER ON THIS. WILSON TOLD FORTNA

THAT THIS KILLING WAS "ENGINEERED" BY LOU CRUZ (PHONETIC). FORTNA

STATED THAT HE KNOWS LOU CRUZ AND THAT LOU CRUZ OWNED OR STILL OWNS

LOU CRUZ JEWELRY, 1505 MAIN STREET, GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI. WILSON

TOLD FORTNA THAT HE DROVE TO THE STATE LINE AIRPORT IN KANSAS CITY,

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 242

Transmitted (Number)

(Time)

Per

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 243

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

[ Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

SECRET

O CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

D CLEAR

Date

PAGE 3 JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

MISSOURI, DRIVING A NEW FORD THUNDERBIRD. WILSON TOLD FORTNA. THAT

CRUZ ALSO OWNED AN IDENTICAL FORD THUNDERBIRD. WILSON LEFT HIS

THUNDERBIRD AT THE AIRPORT AND FLEW TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. CRUZ

CAME TO THE AIRPORT AND PICKED UP WILSON'S THUNDERBIRD AND TOOK IT

FROM THE AIRPORT SO IT WOULD NOT BE NOTICED. WHEN WILSON ARRIVED

IN MEMPHIS, HE BORROWED A WHITE FORD MUSTANG THAT HE HAD PURCHASED

FOR HIS DAUGHTER, DEBORAH. DEBORAH HAD DRIVEN FROM KANSAS CITY TO

MEMPHIS IN THE MUSTANG. WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE WENT TO THE

MOTEL WHERE MARTIN LUTHER KING WAS STAYING AND THAT HE USED A

JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE AND SHOT KING HOLDING THE RIFLE ON HIS HIP.

HE STATED THAT THIS RIFLE IS NOW IN THE POSSESSION OF WILSON'S SON,

STEVE. WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE WAS DRIVING AWAY FROM THE SCENE

IN THE MUSTANG, AND HE WAS STOPPED BY THE MEMPHIS POLICE, BUT HE

TALKED HIMSELF OUT OF A TICKET, AND THE CAR WAS NOT SEARCHED. HE

STATED THAT THE RIFLE WAS IN THE TRUNK OF THE CAR AT THIS TIME.

WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE THEN FLEW HIS AIRPLANE BACK TO KANSAS

CITY, AND CRUZ PICKED HIM UP AT THE AIRPORT AND TOOK HIM HOME.

FORINA STATED THAT WHEN WILSON TOLD HIM THE ABOVE INFORMATION,

HE, FORTNA, BELIEVED THAT WILSON THOUGHT HE WAS TELLING THE TRUTH

AND THAT HE SWORE ON HIS MOTHER'S GRAVE IN FRONT OF A PRIEST THAT IT

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 243

Transmitted _

(Number)

Per

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 244

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

O SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

EFTO

• CLEAR

Date

PAGE 4 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

WAS THE TRUTH. FORTNA STATED THAT WILSON HAD NEVER MENTIONED THIS

SUBJECT PRIOR TO THIS INSTANCE. FORTNA STATED THAT WILSON HAS BEEN

DRINKING HEAVILY FOR THE PAST TWO MONTHS AND HAS LIED TO HIM SEVERAL

TIMES. IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS. WILSON, ON OCCASION, WOULD TELL

FORTNA THAT HE HAD BEEN MARRIED THREE OR FOUR TIMES SINCE DIVORCING

HIS FIRST WIFE AND THEN COME BACK AT A LATER DATE AND SAY THAT HE

HAD NOT BEEN MARRIED AFTER DIVORCING HIS FIRST WIFE.

FORINA STATED THAT WILSON IS AN EXCELLENT PILOT, THAT HE,

FORINA, HAS FLOWN WITH WILSON THROUGH BAD WEATHER, AND WILSON HAD

NO PROBLEMS FLYING THE AIRCRAFT.

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AKA BILL, WAS BORN AUGUST 28, 1931,

AT FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, 5 FEET 11 INCHES, 170 POUNDS, BROWN EYES,

GRAY HAIR, SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER 422-34-4275, MILITARY SERVICE

U. S. AIR FORCE 1947-1960.

KANSAS CITY AT GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI. WILL LOCATE LOU CRUZ

(PHONETIC), 1505 MAIN STREET, RE KNOWLEDGE OF WILSON AND FACT HE

"ENGINEERED" ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING.

AT KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI. WILL, CONDUCT APPROPRIATE INVESTIGA-

TION AND CHECK FLIGHT PLANS IF POSSIBLE AT STATE LINE AIRPORT IN AN

EFFORI TO DETERMINE IF WILSON FLEW FROM THIS AIRPORI TO MEMPHIS,

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 244

Transmitted

(Number)

Per

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 245

FD-36 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

• Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

EF TO

CLEAR

Date

PAGE 5 JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

TENNESSEE, ON OR ABOUT APRIL 4, 1968.

FOR INFORMATION OF KANSAS CITY, IN A PRIOR INTERVIEW OF WILSON,

HE STATED HE HAD A RED AND WHITE BONANZA AIRPLANE, REGISTER NUMBER

34L, AND A CESSNA 310 TWIN-ENGINE BLUE AND WHITE AIRCRAFT.

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 245

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

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## Page 246

JNO 00115392

00 HQ KC ME

DE JN

0 2215362 AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) PRIORITY

KANSAS CITY IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS E FT O

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

CARL D. FORINA, ROUTE 6, BOX 387, OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI,

STATED THAI HE MET BILL WILSON IN BELTON, MISSOURI, IN 1966 OR 1967.

FORTNA WAS IN THE AIR FORCE AT THIS TIME STATIONED AT RICHARDS-

GEBAUER AIR FORCE BASE IN BELTON, MISSOURI. FORINA STATED THAT

WILSON AND WILSON'S WIFE OWNED A JEWELRY STORE IN BELTON, MISSOURI,

AND THAT WILSON WAS A MEMBER OF THE 442ND AIR FORCE RESERVE UNIT

STATIONED AT RICHARDS-GEBAUER AIR FORCE BASE. FORTNA STATED HE

KNEW WILSON THROUGH THEIR ASSOCIATION IN THE VEW IN BELION, MISSOURI.

FORINA STATED THAT HE, FORTNA, RETIRED FROM THE AIR FORCE IN 1969

62-544-60

Searched

Aurialized &

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 246

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## Page 247

PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FT O

AND DID NOT SEE WILSON AGAIN EXCEPT FOR ONE BRIEF MOMENT IN 1972

UNTIL APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS AGO. WILSON CAME IO OCEAN SPRINGS, .

MISSISSIPPI, FROM LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA, ABOUT TWO MONTHS AGO AND

LIVED IN THE TWIN PINES MOTEL ON HIGHWAY 9D, OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI. ON JULY 23, 1978, WILSON MOVED INTO A HOUSE OWNED BY

FORINA LOCATED NEXI DOOR TO FORINA 'S PRESENT RESIDENCE.

AT APPROXIMATELY 4:L5 PM ON AUGUST 18, 1978, WILSON ASKED

FORINA TO COME INTO WILSON'S HOUSE, THAT HE HAD SOMETHING VERY

IMPORTANT TO TELL HIM. WILSON TOLD FORINA, "I KILLED THAT BLACK

SON-OF-A-BITCH." FORTNA ASKED WILSON WHO HE WAS TALKING ABOUT,

AND WILSON REPLIED MARTIN LUTHER KING• FORINA STATED THAT HE TOLD

WILSON HE DID NOT BELIEVE HIM, AND WILSON SAID, "I AM TELLING YOU

THE TRUTH. I ACTUALLY KILLED HIM. I'VE BEEN LIVING WITH IT FOR

TEN YEARS, AND I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE." WILSON TOLD FORINA THAT

MARTIN LUTHER KING WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR WILSON'S FATHER'S DEATH.

WILSON DID NOT ELABORATE FURTHER ON THIS. WILSON TOLD FORTNA

THAT THIS KILLING WAS "ENGINEERED" BY LOU CRUZ (PHONETIC). FORTNA

STATED THAT HE KNOWS LOU CRUZ AND THAT LOU CRUZ OWNED OR STILL OWNS

LOU CRUZ JEWELRY, 1585 MAIN STREET, GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI. WILSON

TOLD FORTNA THAT HE DROVE TO THE STATE LINE AIRPORT IN KANSAS CITY,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 247

---

## Page 248

PAGE 3 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FI O

MISSOURI, DRIVING A NEW FORD THUNDERBIRD. WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT

CRUZ ALSO OWNED AN IDENTICAL FORD THUNDERBIRD. WILSON LEFT HIS

THUNDERBIRD AT THE AIRPORT AND FLEW TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. CRUZ

CAME TO THE AIRPORT AND PICKED UP WILSON'S THUNDERBIRD AND TOOK IT

FROM THE AIRPORT SO IT WOULD NOT BE NOTICED • WHEN WILSON ARRIVED

IN MEMPHIS, HE BORROWED A WHITE FORD MUSTANG THAT HE HAD PURCHASED

FOR HIS DAUGHTER, DEBORAH. DEBORAH HAD DRIVEN FROM KANSAS CITY TO

MEMPHIS IN THE MUSTANG • WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE WENT TO THE

MOTEL WHERE MARTIN LUTHER KING WAS STAYING AND THAT HE USED A

JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE AND SHOT KING HOLDING THE RIFLE ON HIS HIP.

HE STATED THAT THIS RIFLE IS NOW IN THE POSSESSION OF WILSON'S SON,

STEVE. WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE WAS DRIVING AWAY FROM THE SCENE

IN THE MUSTANG, AND HE WAS STOPPED BY THE MEMPHIS POLICE, BUT HE

TALKED HIMSELF OUT OF A TICKET, AND THE CAR WAS NOT SEARCHED. HE

STATED THAT THE RIFLE WAS IN THE TRUNK OF THE CAR AT THIS TIME.

WILSON TOLD FORTNA THAT HE THEN FLEW HIS AIRPLANE BACK TO KANSAS

CITY, AND CRUZ PICKED HIM UP AT THE AIRPORT AND TOOK HIM HOME.

FORTNA STATED THAT WHEN WILSON TOLD HIM THE ABOVE INFORMATION,

HE, FORINA, BELIEVED THAI WILSON THOUGHT HE WAS TELLING THE TRUTH

AND THAT HE SWORE ON HIS MOTHER'S GRAVE IN FRONT OF A PRIEST THAT IT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 248

---

## Page 249

PAGE 4 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

WAS THE TRUTH. FORINA STATED THAT WILSON HAD NEVER MENTIONED THIS

SUBJECT PRIOR TO THIS INSTANCE • FORTNA STATED THAT WILSON HAS BEEN

DRINKING HEAVILY FOR THE PAST TWO MONTHS AND HAS LIED TO HIM SEVERAL

TIMES IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS. WILSON, ON OCCASION, WOULD TELL

FORINA THAT HE HAD BEEN MARRIED THREE OR FOUR TIMES SINCE DIVORCING

HIS FIRST WIFE AND THEN COME BACK AT A LATER DATE AND SAY THAT HE

HAD NOT BEEN MARRIED AFTER DIVORCING HIS FIRST WIFE.

FORINA STATED THAT WILSON IS AN EXCELLENI PILOT, THAT HE,

FORINA, HAS FLOWN WITH WILSON THROUGH BAD WEATHER, AND WILSON HAD

NO PROBLEMS FLYING THE AIRCRAFT•

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., AKA BILL, WAS BORN AUGUST 28, 1931,

AT FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, 5 FEET 11 INCHES, 178 POUNDS, BROWN EYES,

GRAY HAIR, SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER 422-34-4275, MILITARY SERVICE

U.S. AIR FORCE 1947-1960.

KANSAS CITY AT GRANDVIEW, MISSOURI. WILL LOCATE LOU CRUZ

(PHONETIC), 1505 MAIN STREET, RE KNOWLEDGE OF WILSON AND FACT HE

"ENGINEERED" ASSASSINATION OF DR. KING.

AT KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI. WILL CONDUCT APPROPRIATE INVESTIGA -

TION AND CHECK FLIGHT PLANS IF POSSIBLE AT STATE LINE AIRPORT IN AN

EFFORT TO DETERMINE IF WILSON FLEW FROM THIS AIRPORI TO MEMPHIS,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 249

---

## Page 250

PAGE 5 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FI O

TENNESSEE, ON OR ABOUT APRIL 4, 1968.

FOR INFORMATION OF KANSAS CITY, IN A PRIOR INTERVIEW OF WILSON,

HE STATED HE HAD A RED AND WHITE BONANZA AIRPLANE, REGISTER NUMBER

34L, AND A CESSNA 310 TWIN-ENGINE BLUE AND WHITE AIRCRAFT.

BT

2341555Z ME 1

13

2341506 HQ - 1 CLR

23415537 KC

1 IKS

• NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 250

---

## Page 251

JN 62-544

162c

AT VETERANS ADMINISTRATION CENTER, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI

JR., had ever received treatment at the Gulfport or Biloxi,

Mississippi, Veterans Administration Centers.

AT KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

On August 21, 1978, Airman First Glass SUSAN DRENNON,

Clerk, Registrar's Office, Keester Medical Center, Keester Air

Base, BiloxI, MISSissippi, advised SA EDGAR L. O'NEILL,

no record in the in patient records or out-

patient records that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. had ever received

treatment there.

She stated that if a patient is treated for routine

physical examination and is not again seen for a period of two

years, all medical records are thereafter transmitted to U. S.

Air Force Medical Records Center, St. Louis, Missouri.

62-5441-61

ON 018

AUG? 1978

FEI-JACK.CON

3,25.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 251

---

## Page 252

JN 62-544

HHC/ kbn

Ocean Springs, Mississippi by SA HARRY H. CARPENTER

on August 19, 1978:

stated that he

name.

MAUDLE OLUM, Bartender, Angle Inn Restaurant

and Lounge, Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi,

advised that BILL WILSON had been coming to the Angle

Inn for approximately two months and appeared to be a

normal customer, causing no trouble.

She stated that

one of WILSON's close friends, is CARL FORTNA, telephone

number 875-0220.

On August 19, 1978, Mrs. MARGARET ALLEN,

Assistant Manager, Twin Oaks

Te 47135 ayer a a on data that spe that

approximately one month and was an ideal tenant.

She stated he caused no problems and she knows of

no close associates of WILSON.

62-544-62

NUG i% 1978

FEI-lACKSON

57216

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 252

---

## Page 253

In Reply, Please Refer 10

File No.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Jackson, Mississippi

August 21, 1978'

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS

UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENIATIVES

Box 205H3, Ocean Springs,

Mississippi

telephonically

He advised that on August 17, 1978, one of his

telephonically requested that he

Thereafter, he and Mrs.

Gladen met Wilson at their card and gitt shop located in

Ocean Springs.

Mc. Wilson told them he had killed Martin Luther

King.

He talked for one hour concerning the details of

the plan to kill King and stated the sheriff, Memphis,

Tennessee is the only person to whom he will

surrender.

ALSO,

he said he is to meet the sheriff at the Holiday Inn,

Biloxi, Mississippi, the worning of August 18, 1978.

Mr. Wilson further advised Mr. and Mrs. Gladen

ma sep u the puts a can them a setting he h

4 - Bureau (62-117290)

(InIo)

®= Jackson (62-544)

JWA/njb

(7)

nih 2216

as son sIn

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions

of the FBI.

It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed

outside your agency.

12-544-63

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 253

---

## Page 254

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS

UNITES STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Mr. Gladen advised that in July 1978, he had

rented Mr. Wilson part of his shop to establish a watch

repair service.

Mr. Gladen described Wilson as a white male,

46 years of age.

He stated that Wilson is a very intelli

King•

2*

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 254

---

## Page 255

AIRTEL

- -

3/21/78

TO:

SUBJECT:

DIRECTOR, FDI (62-117290)

ATIN:

COMGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT

RECORDS LAVICEIET DIVISIOLI

SAG, JACISON (62-544)

HOUSE SELICT COMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (USCA)

Ic Jackson telctype to Eurcou, 8/10/75, captioned

as above, concoming BILl ILSON.

Enclosed herewith for the Bureau and Hemphis are

four and two copies, respectively, of an LIll datca 8/21/78,

contioned "Ilouse Select Cormittee on Assassinations, United

Stutco House of Representatives,

2 - Disreau (Lace 2) (Into)

(Enco

/1 = Jackson

JAW/ajb

(4).-

2,013

62-544-14

80716112.1

hadoseil

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 255

---

## Page 256

FD-36 (PE. 17-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

1X Teletype

• Facsimile

7 Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

KA Immediate

Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

I TOP SECRET

• SECRET

I CONFIDENTIAL

XMEFTO

• CLEAR

Date

8/22/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

2156%

2222 ₴

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, JACKSON SPECIAL AGENT VISITED OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, POLICE DEPARTMENT IN ORDER TO DETERMINE STATUS OF

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. JACKSON SPECIAL AGENT ADVISED BY CHIEF OF

POLICE MATT COX THAT A TELETYPE HAD BEEN RECEIVED FROM LOCAL

AUTHORITIES IN NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ADVISING THEY WOULD ARRIVE IN

OCEAN SPRINGS DURING MORNING OF AUGUST 23, 1978, IN ORDER TO TAKE

WILSON BACK TO TEXAS.

CHIEF OF POLICE COX ADVISED HE HAS BEEN CONTACTED BY JACKSON,

MISSISSIPPI, AND LOCAL OCEAN SPRINGS NEWS MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

PRESSING HIM FOR A STATEMENT CONCERNING WILSON'S ALLEGED REMARKS

62-544-65

0) - JACKSON

KWS/ mae

Soarched

Serlallard

Indorad

VW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 256

man at Kelly n

003

(Number)

21487

(Time)

Per

---

## Page 257

FD-36 (Rev- 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

[ Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[ Priority

= Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

O TOP SECRET

SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

EFTO

CLEAR

Date

PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E

REGARDING KING ASSASSINATION. CHIEF COX ADVISED HAS GIVEN NO PRESS

STATEMENT TO DATE; HOWEVER, HE ADVISED THAT MISSISSIPPI STATE

REPRESENTATIVE THOMAS GOLLOTTE, ALONG WITH REVEREND NOEL FANNON,

ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, WERE APPARENTLY

IN CONTACT WITH LOCAL MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES CONCERNING THIS MATTER.

CHIEF COX FURTHER ADVISED HE HAD BEEN CONTACTED BY JACKSON COUNTY

DISTRICT ATTORNEY CLINTON LOCKARD, WHO HAS BECOME AWARE OF THIS

MATTER AND HAS INSTRUCTED CHIEF COX TO BRING INMATE WILSON TO THE

DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE IN ORDER THAT HIS STATEMENT CAN BE TAPE

RECORDED. CHIEF COX FURTHER ADVISED THAT WILSON APPARENTLY HAS MADE

REMARKS TO THE EFFECT THAT THE FBI INTENDS TO "COVER UP" INFORMATION

HE HAS FURNISHED.

FOREGOING SUBMITTED FOR INFORMATION OF FBIHQ AND MEMPHIS IN

VIEW OF POSSIBLE PRESS INQUIRIES FORTHCOMING.

BT

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 257

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

GPO: 1977 0 - 225-539

---

## Page 258

JNO 0D3 234 22227

00 HQ ME

DE JN

0 2221482 AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS E FT O

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, JACKSON SPECIAL AGENT VISITED OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI, POLICE DEPARTMENT IN ORDER TO DETERMINE STATUS OF

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. JACKSON SPECIAL AGENT ADVISED BY CHIEF OF

POLICE MATT COX THAT A TELETYPE HAD BEEN RECEIVED FROM LOCAL

AUTHORITIES IN NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ADVISING THEY WOULD ARRIVE IN

OCEAN SPRINGS DURING MORNING OF AUGUST 23, 1978, IN ORDER TO TAKE

WILSON BACK TO TEXAS.

CHIEF OF POLICE COX ADVISED HE HAS BEEN CONTACTED BY JACKSON,

MISSISSIPPI, AND LOCAL OCEAN SPRINGS NEUS MEDIA REPRESENIATIVES

PRESSING HIM FOR A STATEMENT CONCERNING WILSON'S ALLEGED REMARKS

62-544-65

searchst.

SOT 115

NW 65994 Dockd:32989768 Page 258

---

## Page 259

ei.=

PAGE 2 JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

REGARDING KING ASSASSINATION. CHIEF COX ADVISED HAS GIVEN NO PRESS

STATEMENT TO DATE; HOWEVER, HE ADVISED THAI MISSISSIPPI STATE

REPRESENTATIVE THOMAS GOLLOTTE, ALONG WITH REVEREND NOEL FANNON,

ST . ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, OCEAN SPRINGS, WERE APPARENILY

IN CONTACT WITH LOCAL MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES CONCERNING THIS MATTER •

CHIEF COX FURTHER ADVISED HE HAD BEEN CONTACIED BY JACKSON COUNTY

DISTRICT ATTORNEY CLINTON LOCKARD, WHO HAS BECOME AWARE OF THIS

MATTER AND HAS INSTRUCTED CHIEF COX TO BRING INMATE WILSON TO THE

DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE IN ORDER THAT HIS STATEMENT CAN BE TAPE

RECORDED • CHIEF COX FURTHER ADVISED THAT WILSON APPARENTLY HAS MADE

REMARKS TO THE EFFECT THAT THE FBI INTENDS TO "COVER UP" INFORMATION

HE HAS FURNISHED.

FOREGOING SUBMITTED FOR INFORMATION OF FBIHQ AND MEMPHIS IN

VIEW OF POSSIBLE PRESS INQUIRIES FORTHCOMING.

BT

2342103 HQ 1

23422252 ME 1

_NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 259

---..-

---

## Page 260

H00DD8 23423337

00 HQ JN ME

DE HO

02223337 AUG 78

FM HOUSTON (44- 1509)

(P)

D DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1987) IMMEDIATE

BT

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8983, JEH.

MURKIN; 00 : MEMPHIS •

RE MEMPHIS TELETYPE TO BUREAU, AUGUST 21, 1978.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, BOB SORRELL, ROUTE ONE, BOX 260,

(BEAUMONT COLONY), KOUNIZE, TEXAS, TELEPHONE 246-2705,

(UNLISTED), WAS CONTACIED AT HIS RESIDENCE WHERE THE FOLLOWING

INFORMATION WAS DEVELOPED • SORRELL BECAME ACQUAINTED WITH

BILL WILSON THROUGH HIS ATTENDANCE AT THE HOLLYWOOD BAPTIST

CHURCH IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE, WHICH WAS PASTORED BY BROTHER

WILSON. SORRELL HAD NO OTHER ASSOCIATION WITH BILL WILSON

62-544-66

11'

1973

D.48

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 260

---

## Page 261

PAGE TWO HO 44-1509 UNCLAS

EXCEPT THROUGH CONTACI AT CHURCH. SORRELL ATTENDED THAT

CHURCH AS A YOUNGSTER AND CONTINUED UNTIL APPROXIMATELY

1958, WHEN HIS FAMILY MOVED FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND

ATTENDANCE STOPPED .

HE, SORRELL, HAD NO OTHER CONTACI WITH BILL WILSON UNTIL

AFTER 1967, WHEN SORRELL EMPLOYED AT HAGLER AERO SERVICE,

CHARLES W. BAKER AIRPORT, MILLINGION, TENNESSEE, TELEPHONE

872-2261• SORRELL WAS PART-TIME EMPLOYEE AT HAGLER UNTIL

OCTOBER OR NOVEMBER OF 1967, WHEN HE BECAME FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE

AS A LINEMAN.

SORRELL RECALLED THAT SOMETIME AFTER BECOMING A FULL-

TIME EMPLOYEE BILL FLEW INTO THE AIRPORT, EXACI DATE UNRECALLED,

IN A TWIN BEACHCRAFT D - 18) BELIEVED RED AND WHITE IN COLOR

WITH POSSIBLY A BLUE STRIPE • SORRELL RECALLED THAT HE

REFUELED THIS AIRPLANE, BUT THE TIME OF DAY OF ARRIVAL

WAS UNKNOWN. AS RECALLED WILSON WAS WEARING CIVILIAN CLOTHING

AND PAID CASH FOR THE FUEL PURCHASE. SORRELL AND WILSON HAD

LITTLE CONVERSATION OTHER THAN GREETING. AS BESI RECALLED

BY SORRELL, WILSON STAYED OVERNIGHI AND LEFT THE FOLLOWING

DAY, TIME UNKNOWN. SORRELL DOES NOI KNOW HOW WILSON WAS

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 261

---

## Page 262

PAGE THREE HO 44-1509 UNCLAS

TRANSPORTED FROM AND TO THE AIRPORT.

WITHIN TWO OR THREE MONTHS WILSON MADE A SECOND VISIT

TO HAGLER IN THE SAME AIRCRAFT WHERE HE RECEIVED GAS,

PAID CASH AND LAID OVER FOR TWO OR THREE DAYS. AGAIN,

SORRELL HAS NO IDEA AS TO HIS TRANSPORTATION FROM AND BACK

TO THE AIRPORI. SORRELL HAS NO INFORMATION AS TO WHERE

HE CAME IN FROM OR HIS DESTINATION UPON DEPARTURE FROM THE

AIRPORT. SORRELL COULD SUPPLY NO INFORMATION ABOUT A

1965, WHITE MUSTANG AND DID NOT KNOW THAT WILSON HAD A

DAUGHTER NAMED DEBORAH.

SORRELL HAS NOT SEEN NOR HEARD FROM WILSON SINCE THE

LAST VISIT TO HAGLER.

SORRELL TERMINATED HIS EMPLOYMENT AT HAGLER IN OCTOBER

OF 1976. HE CANNOI RECALL THE EXACI IIME OF ARRIVAL OR

DEPARTURE BUT DOES BELIEVE BOTH VISITS OCCURRED IN EITHER

1968 OR 1969, SORRELL ADVISED FUEL RECEIPTS BROKEN DOWN

BY SINGLE ENGINE OR MUTLI-ENGINE AIRCRAFTS ARE MAINTAINED

ON A MONTHLY BASIS. SORRELL ADVISED THAI MR. GLENN MITCHELL,

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR, HAGLER AERO SERVICES, COULD ASSIST

WITH REVIEW OF GAS RECEIPTS TO DETERMINE EXACT DATE OF ARRIVAL.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 262

---

## Page 263

PAGE FOUR HO 44-1509 UNCLAS

SORRELL HAD NO INFORMATION HOW WILSON CAME INTO

POSSESSION OF AIRCRAFT AND DOES NOT KNOW WHETHER IT WAS

LEASED OR OWNED BY HIM. IN RECALLING THE TWO VISITS

BY WILSON, SORRELL HAS A GUI FEELING THAI SOMEONE MAY

HAVE BEEN WITH HIM ON EACH OCCASION, BUT THIS IS JUST A

FEELING ON HIS PART AND HE CAN SUPPLY NO INFORMATION TO

CONFIRM THIS FEELING. SORRELL HAD NO INFORMATION ABOUT

AN AIRPORT IN OLATHA, KANSAS, WHERE WILSON ALLEGEDLY LANDED

ATER DEPARTURE FROM MEMPHIS.

AS FURTHER BACKGROUND, SORRELL RECALLED THAT DURING

ATTENDANCE AT THE HOLLYWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH HE GOT THE IMPRES-

SION THAT WILSON WAS IN AND OUT OF TROUBLE, ALTHOUGH HE

DOES NOT KNOW THE TYPE. HE MAY HAVE RECEIVED THIS INFORMATION

FROM ONE OF WILSON'S SISTERS, NAMES UNRECALLED. THROUGH

CONTACT WITH WILSON AT CHURCH, WILSON IMPRESSED SORRELL AS

THE TYPE OF GUY WHO ALWAYS HAD A "BIG DEAL", "KIND OF

A CONMAN PERSONALITY". AGAIN, AND IT MAY HAVE BEEN ONE OF

WILSON'S SISTERS WHO MENTIONED IT, SORRELL GOT THE IMPRESSION

THAT WILSON HAD BEEN ARRESTED AND RECEIVED TIME FOR AN

UNKNOWN OFFENSE. SORRELL ADVISED THAT CONTACT WITH WILSON'S

SISTERS WAS AT CHURCH. HE AGAIN STATED THAT HE HAS A GUT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 263

---

## Page 264

PAGE FIVE HO 44-1509 UNCLAS

FEELING THAT ONE OF THEM MAY. HAVE BEEN AT THE AIRPORT ON

ONE OF THE ABOVE OCCASIONS.

SORRELL DID NOT KNOW FOR CERTAIN THAT WILSON SERVED

IN THE U.S. AIR FORCE, BUT RECALLED THAT WILSON WORE A

UNIFORM AT CHURCH ON OCCASION. SORRELL WAS NOT AWARE THAT

WILSON WAS EMPLOYED AT PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE COMPANY BUT DOES

RECALL HIS MARRIAGE TO BETTY LOU, MAIDEN NAME UNKNOWN,

BECAUSE BETTY LIVED IN THE SAME NEIGHBOR HOOD • SORRELL

HAD NO INFORMATION ABOUT WILSON'S CLEANING BUSINESS OR

TIME SPENT IN THE TENNESSEE NATIONAL GUARD OR THAT WILSON

HAD EVER LIVED IN THE MEMPHIS AREA.

SINCE NO INFORMATION WAS DEVELOPED FROM SORRELL

CONCERNING THE AIRPORT IN KANSAS AND DID NOT KNOW

(FIRST NAME UNKNOWN, FISHER, FROM WHOM WILSON ALLEGEDLY

PURCHASED THE AIRCRAFT, ANY LEADS FOR KANSAS WILL BE

LEFT UP TO THE DISCRETION OF MEMPHIS.

- LEADS. MEMPHIS AT MILLINGION, TENNESSEE. CONTACT GLENN

MITCHELL AND ATTEMPT TO REVIEW LOGICAL GAS RECEIPTS TO

DETERMINE EXACI DATE OF WILSON'S REFUELING AT HAGLER AERO

SERVICE.

• HOUSTON AT HOUSTON, WILL SUBMIT REPORT.

B

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 264

---

## Page 265

huds 03111700

PILOTUS 041-352019 1001'II

MOOD 02-309 TEENIE

deCade 1, 10700 000 2091009 d00 OeTON DE,

Tilsite

adorn to moled the vote deadlorder to yaren

99-f14r-9-89

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 265

---

## Page 266

NCO OS 23423331

DO NG. AW ME

DE HO

• 0

0222332 AUG

78

FIM, NOUSTON (44-15059

(P)

DIRECTOR (44-33861) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON. (62-544) WMEDIATE

AcarAiS (44-1987).

INMED IATE

BT

UNCLAS

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROCY 9988, JEK.

RE MENPHIS TELETYPE TO BUREAU, AUGUST 21, 1978.

ON AUDUSE DE, 1970, BOB SORRELL, ROUTE ONE, BOX 2615

• OCAUMONT COLONY) & KOUNTZE, TEXAS, TELEPHONE 246-27055

CUNLISTED DA WAS CONTACTED AT HIS RESIDENCE WHERE THE FOLLOWING

INFORMATION CAS DEVELOPED SORDELL BECAME ACQUAINIED WITH

BILL WILSON THOUGH HIS ATTZODANCE AT THE HOLLYWOOD BAPTIST

CHURCH TO ACAPNIS, TENNESSEE, WHICH WAS PASTORED BY BROTKER

SORRELL HAD

NO, OTHER ASSOGIATION WITH DILL WILSON

(SFARGHED.

SERIALIZED

62-544-66

_INDEXED_

_FILED..

AUG A 2. 1978.

F5:- PACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 266

---

## Page 267

PAGE THO HO 44- 1509 UECLAS

EXCEPT THROUGH CONTAGI AT CHURCH, SORRELL ATTENDED THAT

CHURGH AS A YOUNGSTER AND CONTINUED UNTIL APPROXIMATELY

1050, WHEN HIS FAMILY MOVED FROG INE. HEIGHBORHOOD AND

ATTENDANGE STOPPED A

NE, SORRELL, MAD NO OTHER CONTACT WITH HILL WILSON UNTIL

AFTEN 1967, WAEN SORDELL EMPLOYED AT HAGLER MERO SERVICE,

CHARLES WE BAKER AIRPORT, MILLTAGTOM, TENESSEE, TELEPHONE

672-22614 SORRELL WAS PART-TIME EUPLOYEE AT HAGLER UOTIL

OCTOBEN OR NOVENDER OF 1907, WHEN HE BECAME FULL-TIME EMPLOYEL

AS A LINENADO

SORRELL RECALLED THAT SOUST IME AFTER BECOMING A FULL.

TIME EMPLOYEE DILL FLEW INTO THE AIRPORT, EXAGI DATE UNRECALLED,

IS A TWIN BZACHCRAFT @- 18) BELIEVED RED AND

WHITE IN COLOR

• "ITH POSSIBLY A BLUE STRIPO, SORRELL RECALLED THAT HE

• REFOELED THIS AIRPLANE; BUS THE TIE OF DAY OF ARRIVAL

WAS UNADIN. AS RECALLED WILSON WAS WEARING CIVILIAN CLOTHING

AND PAID CASH FOR THE FUS PURCHASE• SORRELL AND WILSON HAD

LITTLE CONVERSATION OINER THAN GREETING. AS'BEST RECALLED

BY SORRELL, WILSON STAYED OVERNIGHT AND LEFT THE FOLLOWING

DAY, TIME UNKNOWIN

SORRELL. DOES NOI KNOW. NOW WILSON WAS

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 267.

---

## Page 268

PAGE THREE HO 44- 1509 UNCLAS

TRANSPORTED FROM AND TO THE AIRPORT..

WITHIN TUO GR THREE MONTHS WILSON MADE A SECOND VISIT

TO HAGLER IE THE SAME AIRCRAFT WHERE HE RECEIVED GASS

PAID CASH AND LAID OVER FOR TVO OR THREE DAYS. AGAIN,

SORRELL MAS NO IDEA AS TO HIS TRANSPORTATION FROG AND BACK

TO IS AIRPORT: SORRELL KAS NO INFORMATION. AS TO WHERE

HE CAME IN FROM ON HIS DESTINATION UPON DEPARTURE FROM THE

AIRPORT • SORRELL COULD SUPPLY NO INFORMATION ABOUT A

1965, WHITE NUSTANG AND DID HOT XMOW, THAT WILSON HAL A

DAUGHIER WANED DEBORAH.

SORRELL MAS NOT SEEN NON NEARD FROM WILSON SINCE IKE

LAST VISIT TO MAGLER O

SORRELL FERMENATED MIS ENPLOYMENT AT RAGLER IN OCTOBER

OF 1976, DE CANOT RECALL IHE EXACT TIME OF ARRIVAL OR

DEPARTURE

BUT DOES BELIEVE BOTH VISITS OCCURRED IN EITHER

1968 OR 1909, SORRELL ADVISED FUEL RECEIPTS BROKEN DOW

BY SINGLE ENGICE OR MUTLI-ENGINE AIRCRAFTS ARE MAINTAINED

ON A MUNTHLY DASIS. SORRELL ADVISED THAI MR. GLENN MITCHELL.

NAINTEMANCE SUPERVISOA, HAGLER AERO SERVICES, COULD ASSIST

WITH REVIEW OF CAS RECIPIS TO DETERINE EXACT DATE OF ARRIVAL A

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 268

---

## Page 269

*PACE FOUR

HO

44- 1909 UNCLAS

CORRELL HAD NO INFORMATION HOW WILSON CAME INTO

POSSESSION OF AIRCRAFT AND DOES NOT KNOW WHETHER IT WAS

LEASEO OR OUNCO BY KIM. IN RECALLING THE TWO VISITS

BY WILSON, SORRELL HAS A GUT FEELING THAT SOMEONE MAY

HAVE SEEM WITH HAN ON EADH OCCASION, BUT TMIS IS JUST A

FESWING ON HIS FART ARD. HE CAN SUPPLY NO INFORMATION TO

CODFIRD INTO FEELTIG.

SORRELL HAD NO INFORMATION ABOUT

AN AIRPORT IN OLATHA, KANSAS, WERE WILSOW ALLEGEDLY LANDED

ETER DEPARTURE FROG MEMPHIS.

AS FURTHER BACKGROUND, SORRELL RECALLED THAT DURING

ATTENDANCE AT THE HOLLYWDOD BAPTIST CHURCH HE GOT THE IMPRES

SION THAT WILSON WAS IN AND OUT OF TROUBLE, ALTROUGS HE

DOES NOT KNOV THE TURE. KE MAY MAVE RECHIVED THIS INFORUATION

FROM ONE OF WILSON'S SISTERS, MAMES WIRECALLED. THROUGH

CONTACT WITH WILSON AT CHURCH, WILSON IMPRESSED SORRELL AS

THE TYPE OF GUY WHO

ALWAYS HAD A "BIG DEAL", "NTID OF

1 CURIAN PERSONALITY"S ACAIN, AND IT MAY HAVE DEEN ONE OF

WILSON'S SISTERS WAO MENTIONED 1T& SORRELL GOT THE IMPRESSION

THAT WILSON MAD BEEN ARNECTED AND RECEIVED TIME FOR AN

OFFENSE, SORRELL. ADVISED THAT CONTACT WITH WILSON'S

SISTERS WAS AT CHURCH. ME AGAIN STATED TRAT HE HAS A-GUT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 269

---

## Page 270

PAGE FIVE HO 44 - 1509 UNCLAS

FEELING THAT ONE DE THEM MAY HAVE, BEEN AT THE AIRPORT ON

ODE OF THE ABOVE OCCASIONS A

SORRELL DID MOT KNOW FOR CERTAIN THAT WILSON

SERVED

I INE U.S, AIR FORCE, BUT RECALLED THAT WILSON WORE A

UNIFORM AT CHURCH ON OCCASION, SORRELL WAS NOT AWARE THAT.

WILSON WAS EMPLOYED AT PRUDENTIAL INSURANCE COMPANY BUT DOES

RECALL MIS MARRIAGE TO BETTY LOU, MAIDEN VAME UNKNOWN,

BECAUSE BETTY LIVED IN THE SAME NEIGHEORHUOD • SORRELL

MAD NO INFORMACION ABOUT VILSON*S CLEANING BUSINESS OR

TIME SPERT IN TNE TENNESSEE MATIONAL GUARD OR INAT WILSON

HAD EVER LIVED IN THE NEMPHIS

AREA.

SINCE NO INFORMATION WAS DEVELOPED FROM SORRELL

CONCERNING THE AIRPORT IN KANSAS AND DID NOT KNOW

FIRST NAME UNINOUND FISHER, FROM WHO WILSON ALLEGEDLY

PURCHASED THE ALRORAFT, ANY LEADS FOR KANSAS WILL BE

LEFT UP TO THE DISCROTION OF. MEMPHIS.

- LEADS.

MEMPHIS AT MILLINGTON, TENNESSER.. CONTACT GLEN

MITONELL AND ATTEMPI TO REVIEW LOCICAL GAS RECEIPIS TO

DETERMINE. EXACT DATE OF WILSON'S REFUELIUG AT HAGLER ABRO

SERVICE A

HOUSTON AT YOUSTON, WILL SUBHIT REPORT.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 270

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## Page 271

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription August 21, 1978

CARL D. FORTNA, Route 6, Box 387, Ocean Springs,

Mississippi, telephone number 875-0220, was advised of the

identity of the interviewing Agent and the nature of the

interview.

FORTNA, a white male, born June 2, 1932, in

Great Bend, Kansas,

advised that

he completed

the tenth

grade of high school, and he could read and write.

FORTNA stated that he met BILL WILSON in Belton,

Missouri, in 1966 or 1967. FORTNA was in the Air Force at

this time stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base in

Belton, Missouri.

FORTNA stated that WILSON and WILSON's

wife owned a jewelry store in Belton, Missouri, and that

WILSON was a member of the 442nd Air

Force Reserve Unit

stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base.

FORTNA stated

he knew WILSON through their association in the VEW in Belton,

Missouri. FORTNA stated that he, FORTNA, retired from the Air

Force in 1969 and did not see WILSON again except for one

brief moment in 1972 until approximately two months ago.

Louisiana,

Motel on Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi. On July 23,

1978, WILSON moved into a house owned by FORTNA

located next

to FORTNA's present residence.

At approximately 4:15 PM on August 18, 1978, WILSON

asked FORINA to come into WILSON's house, that he had

something

very important to tell him.

WILSON told

FORINA, "I killed that

black son-of-a-bitch." FORTNA asked WILSON who he was talking

about, and WILSON replied MARTIN LUTHER KING.

FORTNA stated

that he told WILSON he did not believe him,

and WILSON said,

"I am telling you the truth. I actually killed him. I've

WILSON's father's death. WILSON did not elaborate further on

this.

WILSON told FORTNA that this killing was "engineered"

by LOU CRUZ (phonetic). FORTNA stated that he knows LOU CRUZ

and that LOU CRUZ owned or still owns Lou Cruz Jewelry, 1505

Main Street, Grandview, Missouri. WILSON told FORTNA that he

drove to the State Line Airport in Kansas City, Missouri,

driving a new ford Thunderbird. WILSON told FORINA that CRUZ

Interviewed on _

8/19/78 Ocean Springs, Mississippifile # Jackson 62-544 - 67

Hide

by

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/mac

Date dictated -

8/19/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 271

---

## Page 272

JN 62-544

also owned an identical Ford Thunderbird. WILSON left his

thunderbird at the airport and Ilew to Memphis, lennessee.

CRUZ came to the airport and picked up WILSON'

s Thunderbird

DEBORAH had driven from Kansas City to Memphis

WILSON told FORTNA that he went to the motel where MARTIN

LUTHER KING was Staying

that this rifle is now in the possession of WILsoN's stated

STEVE.

WILSON told FORTNA that he was driving away from the

scene in the Mustang, and he was stopped by the Memphis police,

but he talked himself out of a ticket, and the car was not

searched.

He stated that the rifle was in the trunk of the

car at this time. WILSON told FORTNA that he then flew his

airplane back to Kansas City, and CRUZ picked him up at the

airport and took him home.

FORTNA stated that when WILSON told him the above

Intormation, he, FORTNA, believed that WILSON thought he was

telling the truth and that he swore on his mother's grave in

front of a priest that it was the truth.

FORTNA stated that

WILSON had never mentioned this subject prior to this instance.

FORTNA stated that WILSON has been drinking heavily for the

past two months and has lied to him several times in the past

WILSON, on occasion, would tell FORTNA that he

had been married three or four times since divorcing his first

wife and then come back at a later date and say that he had

not been married after divorcing his first wife.

FORTNA stated that WILSON is an excellent pilot,

that he, FORTNA, has flown with WILSON through bad weather,

and WILSON had no problems flying the aircraft.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 272

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## Page 273

JN 62-544

KPH/dew

1

The following investigation was conducted by

SA KENNETH P. HUGHES:

On August 19, 1978,

a review of the 1978

Grenada City Directory shows a listing for the Central

Baptist Church with Reverend JOE BELL as pastor at

333 Second Street, Grenada, Mississippi, telephone

225-27150

The directozy shows JOE BELL and wife,

MYRA N. BELL, residing at 235 South Mound Street,

Grenada, Mississippi, hoine telephone 226-4133, and

that jOE BELL is the

pastor oi the Central Baptist

Church.

On August 19, 1978,

FRED TILGHMAN, Chief of

Police, Grenada,

MISSiSSIpPI, Police Department,

Grenada, Mississippi, advised he could locate no

arrest record of outstanding warrants for BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

also known as BILL WILSON, date

i birch. August 28, 1931, place of birth, fulton,

Mississippi.

record or outstanding wasrants on BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

also known as BILL WILSON, white male, date of birth,

On August 19, 1918, HUBERT SPEARS, United

States Post Office, Grenada, Mississippi, advised

they did have a B. A. WILSON, who was formerly the

preacher at the Central Baptist Church, Grenada,

Mississippi, approximately tour or five years ago.

62-544-68

Allf died 1978

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 273

---

## Page 274

JN 62-544

2

SPEARS stated that B. A. WILSON died, and his

arter B. A. WILSON's

Mississippi, which house is now vacant or in the

process of being torn down.

SPEARS further stated

that B. A. WILSON and his wife lived in the parsonage

behind Central Eaptist Church, and SPEARS stated that

LI WILSON had any chidren, none lived in Grenada, or

hey were all gicin when WIiSON was the preacher al

A review of the Grenada City Directory for

at 375 South Levon street no

• for Mrs.

LILLY M.

WILSON

Grenada, Mississippi,

telephone number 226-4737°

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 274

---

## Page 275

JN 62-544

/blc

AT VETERANS ADMINISTRATION CENTER, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI

Veterans

JR., had ever received treatment at the Gulfport or Biloxi,

Mississippi, Veterans Administration Centers,

AT KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

On August 21, 1918, Airman First Class SUSAN DRENNON,

Clerk, Registrar's Office, Keesler Medical Center 'I. O'NEILL,

Base, Biloxi, Mississippi, advised SA EDGAR

JR. that there was no record in

I the in patient records or out

patient records that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. had ever received

treatment there.

She stated that if a patient is treated for routine

physical examination and is nut again seen for a period of two

years, all medical records are thereafter transmitted to U. S.

Air Force Medical Records Center, St. Louis, Missouri.

62-544-69

MA 40 1978

Waits tut

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 275

---

## Page 276

62-544-70

AUG * $ 1978

waits pit

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 276

---

## Page 277

?

JN 62-544

GLH/bjw

The following investigation was conducted by

SA GWYNNE L. HUPFER at Columbus, Mississippi, or

August 19, 1.978:

A physical observation of 401 5th Street South,

Calumbus, Mississippi, revealed that this is the address

of the Candlewood Apartments.

JAMES LANCASTER, 810 Holland Avenue, advised

that he is the owner of the Candlewood Apartments.

LANGASTAR stated that he does not recall anyone by the

name BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRo, Or BILL WILSON, renting

an apartment from him.

LANCASTER advised, however, that

he has had a great deal turnovers in these apartments

over the past several years and he could not possibly

recall

all his tenants by name.

LANCASTER advised

that his daughter, RITA BROWNLEE, was the resident

manager of the Candlewood Apartments for him for several

years. He stated

that she might recall this individual.

RITA BROWNLEE, 3504 Camilia Circle, advised that

she was the resident manager of Candlewood Apartments

during portions of 19/4 and all of 1915 and 1915.

BROWNLEE

advised that she does not recall anyone named BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., Or BILL WILSON renting an apartment

from her.

She stated, however, that she located a payment

Iron a BILL WILSON, dated July 16, 1915,

for apartment #9

at the Gandlewood Apartments.

She advised that this is

the only record she could find of this individual and

stated that he must have paid his rent payments in cash.

DONALD BEARD, Columbus Police Department

advised that their records indicate BURGESS A. WILSON

was the complainant and victim of a strong-arm robbery

on August 1, 1915. BEARD advisec

that is the only record

they have of a BURGESS A. WILSON in their files.

BEARD stated that they have a record of a BILL

_as being

his records indicate that on both of these occasions another

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 277

---

## Page 278

JN 62-544

2

tenant at the Candlewood Apartments had called the

police to complain of excessive noise at the apartment

Of BILL WILSON•

Both of these incidents were handled

by officers of their department with no arrests being

made and no charges being filed.

BARBARA HENSON, Dispatcher, Lowndes County

Sheriff's Office,

advised that their records are negative

concerning BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., or BILL WILSON.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 278

---

## Page 279

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

E Feletype

] Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[ Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

FEETO

I CLEAR

Date

8/23/78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUBM) PRIORITYA0502

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) PRIORITY 2DOFI

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

ON AUGUST 23, 1978, SERGEANT LAURA MIZE, DESK SERGEANT,

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, POLICE DEPARTMENT ADVISED THAT

DEPUTY (FIRST NAME UNKNOWN). REYUN, OF THE COMAL COUNTY, TEXAS,

SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT HAD ARRIVED AT THE OCEAN SPRINGS POLICE

DEPARTMENT EARLY THIS MORNING TO PICK UP PRISONER BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR. DESK SERGEANT MIZE ADVISED THAT DEPUTY REYUN

DEPARTED OCEAN SPRINGS AT APPROXIMATELY 10:00 A.M., THIS DATE

WITH WILSON EN ROUTE TO NEW BRAUNFELLS, TEXAS.

BT

67-544-71

Jackson

AND DJWS

(1)

Searched

Serialized

Indexed

Filed

Approved: -

15/7,76

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 279

Transmitted

(Number)

fee

(Time)

both

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 280

JNO D01 23519582

PP HQ ME SA

DE JN

R 231955Z AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-3382) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS EFT O

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; DD: MEMPHIS.

ON AUGUST 23, 1978, SERGEANT LAURA MIZE, DESK SERGEANT,

OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI, POLICE DEPARTMENT ADVISED THAT

DEPUTY (FIRST NAME UNKNOWN) REYUN, OF THE COMAL COUNTY, TEXAS,

SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT HAD ARRIVED AT THE OCEAN SPRINGS POLICE

DEPARTMENT EARLY THIS MORNING TO PICK UP PRISONER BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR. DESK SERGEANT MIZE ADVISED THAT DEPUTY REYUN

DEPARTED OCEAN SPRINGS AT APPROXIMATELY 10:00 A.M., THIS DATE

WITH WILSON EN ROUTE TO NEW BRAUNFELLS, TEXAS.

BI

2351901 HQ 1:

2352005 5A, =

69-544-71

the

Searched

Serialized

Indexed

Fileil

235195 TZ ME 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 280

---

## Page 281

~PD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8-21-78

LUKE JOSEPH BRODERICK, 1204 Hammer Smith Lane,

cean Springs, Mississippi, telephone number 875-1404

as advised of the identity of the interviewing Agent

Mie tent bel

and the nature of the interview. BRODERICK stated

that he is the manager of the Angle Inn Restaurant

and Lounge, Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

BRODERICK, a white male, stated that he

was born February 7, 1940, and has completed three

years of college.

BRODERICK stated that he is acquainted with

BILL WILSON, who has been coming to the Angle Inn

for approximately two months as a customer.

BRODERICK

stated that late on the night of August 16, 1978,

he,

BRODERICK, came to the Angle Inn and WILSON was

sitting at the bar and had been drinking Draft Beer

and was half drunk.

BRODERICK stated he started

talking to WILSON and WILSON said that he, WILSON,

knew more about the MARTIN LUTHER KING assassination

than people thought. WILSON started telling

BRODERICK about how

than EARL RAY. WILSON was describing the other

assassin in the third person.

after WILSON talked for a few minutes, he, BRODERICK,

realized that WILSON was actually talking about himself

person minutelking

BRODERICK stated that

When he questioned WILSON on this,

WILSON stated

• WILSON stated

that he had flown to Memphis, Tennessee,

in a private

plane and he stated that he had shot KING from approxi-

that RAY was a scapegoat in this conspiracy.

WILSON stated that he was turning himself

in to an old friend of his, GENE (last name unknown),

who is the Sheriff of Shelby County. WILSON tolc

Interviewed on _8-19-78

-at Ocean Springs, MississipPfile#_ Jackson 62-544-12

by

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/kbn

Date dictated -

8-21-78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 281

GPO: 1975 0 - 566-118

---

## Page 282

--==--=

JN 62-544

BRODERICK that he was scheduled to turn himself in at 9:30 a.M.,

on August 18, 1978, at the Holiday Inn in Biloxi, Mississippi.

At the time

WILSON was telling BRODERICK the above information,

WILSON had tears in his eyes and said he had been living with

this on his conscience for ten years and could not stand it

anymore. Also listening in to a portion of the above

conversation was part-time bartender, DOROTHY WOODSIDE.

BRODERICK stated that he asked WILSON during the

conversation on the night of August 16, 1978, if he was

RAOUL and WILSON did not either deny or confirm this

statement.

BRODERICK stated that WILSON had dated a female,

KLIA HERRINGTON, and that RITA HERRINGTON'S son, HOWARD

HERRINGTON, went to New Orleans with WILSON at one time.

BRODERICK stated that WILSON came into the Angle

Inn on the morning of August lo, 19/8, and stated that he

was turning himself in to the Sheriff

of Shelby County

at 6:30 p.M., on that day at the Holiday Inn in Gulfport,

WILSON used the pay telephone in the Angle

Inn to call the Sheriff of Shelby County and he wrote the

number of the sheriff on a Yellow Cab Company card on the

wall by the pay telephone.

BRODERICK made available this

Yellow Cab Company sign to the interviewing Agent.

Written on this sign was the telephone number 901:

528-3600. WILSON stated that he could not turn himself in

on the morning of August 10

1978, because the sheriff

could not be

at the motel because of the police strike

now going on in Memphis, Tennessee.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 282

---

## Page 283

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription.

8-21-78

WILLIAM HENRY CAMPBELL, 1706 Kensington Drive,

Gulf South Construction Company, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

CAMPBELL stated that he does know BILL WILSON

and that BILL WILSON had worked for him at Gulf South

Construction Company as a carpenter for approximately

directly under him, CAMPBELL, but that WILSON quit

after two weeks because he wanted more money and

CAMPBELI was not able to pay him more.

He stated that WILSON was a relatively quiet

erson who did not brag or talk about anything concernin

¡olence or notoriety and did not appear to have an

racial problems.

CAMPBELL made available the following application

for employment concerning BILL WILSON:

Interviewed on 8-19-78

_at Ocean Springs, MississipPfe#

dige

Jackson 62-544-15

by SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/bn

8-21-78

Date dictated

Your decure it contains nither ree not to be distined duside you ta y. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 283

GPO: 1975 0 - 566-118

---

## Page 284

JN .62-544

applisation for employment

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name

WiLSON:

Last

Prosent Address TWiN "PINES

Street

Daio 7-5:- ≥8. Socal Security Number 434- 22-1475

Bill

aSt

OCEANS

SPRING iDS 39344

Permanent Addr98$

Street

City

Stalo

Zip

Phone Number 8>5-0220

Date of Bith 8 - 28-31

Married

Single

Own Home

Height 5' /1" Weight / 70)

Rent

Board

of Hair BlAk:ES

of Eyes

Widowed

Dependants:Other?..,

han Wife or Childre

Divorced

Number of Children

It Relatad to Anyone in:Our Employ,

State Name and Department

Referred

By

Separated

Citizen

of U.S. A.

PAPER

Yes

No

EMPLOYMENT DESIRED

Position

CARPENTER

Are You Employed Now?

NO

Date You

Can Start 7-6-28

It So May We Inquire

of Your Present Empioyer

Salary

Desired Y.08 FR

Middle

Ever Applied to this Company Before?

Where

When

EDUCATION

Name and Location of School

Years

Attanded

Date

Graduated

Subjects Studied

Grammar School

ist.

12

High School

College.

Trade, Business or

Correspondence

School

Subjects of Special Study or Research Work

What Foreign Languages Do You Speak Fluently?

NONG

Read

Write

U. S. Military or

Present Membership in

Naval Service

USAL

Rank /1/S§T National Guard or Reserves

Activities Other Than Religious

EXCLUDE ORGANIZATIONS, THE SAME OR CHARACTER OF WHICH NOICANE TO ENCE GREED, COLOR OF NATIONAL ORION OF ITS MEMDEA,,

(Civic, Athletic, Fraternal, etc.)

(Continued on Other Side)

Form 660-26 V. S. A. WILSON JONES

APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

NW. 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 284

---

## Page 285

JN- 62-544

•FSAMER EMPLOYERS (List Below Last Four Employers, Starting With Last One First)

Date

Month and Year

From JAN Y8

TO JUN TR

From FEB 25

TO NAL Z1

From MA /42

TO FER DIS

From

To

Name and Address of Employer

Salary

Position

LA. DFFSHORIE

HOUMA, LA.:

CONTRAUTER

US AiR FORCE

REESLER AFB, I"S

4.05. H2

SELF

2000WKE d

1100ĐN NE.

Reason for Leaving

TiAGO WORdiNG

DEESHARI

NO WORK

AVAiLABLE

RETiRED

REFERENCES: Give Below the Names of Three Persons Not Related To You, Whom You Have Known At Least Ono Year.

Name. Sc

1 CARL FORTNA

Address her

"OCEAN SORINGS DRIVE

207 BALLANTRAR

Р. V: вох с0.

BRUSSARE, LA.

dr, .55

Business si

-" Years

Acquainted

RETiRED USAL

123

ENGINEER

LA- OFESENAL

Intrie

1. 2.

15

13...

3 MARVIN BRAO SHAN

PHYSICAL RECORD:

List Any Physical Defects

NONE

Were You Ever Injured? No

Give Detalls

Have You Any Defects in Hearing?

No

In Vision? •Na

In Speech? Ne

Emergency Notify MRS RiCALL ON SAY 2002 ESTAURN. COGISELS

GộI - 3700:1141

I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application. I understand that misrepresentation or omission of facts called for

Is cause for dismissal. Further, I understand and agree that my employment is for no definite period and may, regardless of the date of payment.

of my wages and salary, be terminated at any time without any previous notice.

Dats

7-5->8

- Signature

Ball Gie Chin

DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE

Interviewed By.

REMARKS:

Neatness

Personality

Hired

Approved: 1.

For Dept.

Position

Employment Manager

Character

Ability

2.

Will Report

Dept. Head

'Salary

Wages

General Manager

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 285

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## Page 286

FD 302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription _

August 21, 1978

DOROTHY RUTH WOODSIDE, 203 Morris Noble Road,

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, telephone number 875-4721, was

advised of the identity of the interviewing Agent and the

nature of the interview. WOODSIDE stated that she is a part-

time bartender at the Angle Inn Restaurant and Lounge located

on Highway 90 in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

She stated

she works full time as an accountant at Ingalls Shipbuilding

Division of Litton Industries, Pascagoula, Mississippi.

WOODSIDE is a white female, born August 27, 1924, and has a

high school education plus

graduating from

business college.

WOODSIDE stated that she does know BILL WILSON, and

she has talked to him numerous times at the Angle Inn. She

stated that she dated WILSON one time and has seen him once

or twice at his apartment.

WOODSIDE stated that at approximately 1:00 AM on

August 18, 1978, WILSON came to the Angle Inn. WILSON talked

to LUKE BRODERICK, the owner of the Angle Inn. While WILSON

was conversing with BRODERICK, WOODSIDE joined the conversation.

She stated that at the time WILSON was talking, he had had

several beers but was not drunk, but the longer he talked and

drank, the more inebriated he became.

heard WILSON say, "I'm the man that shot MARTIN LUTHER KING.

I have had this

on my conscience for ten years. I wanted to

get it off my mind."

She stated that WILSON stated that he

had a green airplane he had flown in to Memphis, Tennessee,

at the time he killed KING. She stated that the reason he was

going to surrender himself to authorities was that he had just

renewed his pilot's license and that he knew he would be caught

as a result of his pilot's license.

WILSON showed this pilot's

license to BRODERICK. WOODSIDE stated that she remembers

WILSON saying that he was looking through a window or over a

windowsill at the time he shot KING. He stated that after he

shot KING, there was a series of bangs or shots but WILSON

stated that he was the one that actually shot KING. She stated

that WILSON said he was going to turn himself in to the Sheriff

of Shelby County, Tennessee, and that WILSON

started crying at

the end of the conversation.

WOODSIDE stated that BRODERICK

said that he believed WILSON was telling the truth, but WOODSIDE

did not believe him.

Interviewed on

by

8/19/78

-Ocean Springs, Mississippifile # Jackson 62-544-74

HiDe

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/kbn/mae

Date dictated

8/21/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 286

---

## Page 287

JN 62-544

Sometime during the conversation, WILSON had

stated that he had at one time been a pilot for Governor

LIFF FINCH, the Governor of Mississippi. He stated he hac

flown FINCH

during FINCH's gubernatorial

campaign. WILSON

also stated that he had flown at one time with the original

Flying Tigers.

WOODSIDE stated that WILSON has been dating a friend

of hers, RITA HERRINGTON, who resides on Fountaine Lane in

Biloxi, Mississippi, telephone number 374-5311. HERRINGTON is

employed as a waitress at the Ramada Inn in Biloxi. HERRINGTON's

son, HOWARD HERRINGTON, supposedly accompanied WILSON to New

Orleans at one time.

WILSON also stated that he had been assigned to

Keesler Air Force Base,

at this time.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 287

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## Page 288

VZCZ CHQO 083

PP BH CG DL HO JN KC ME OC SL SA

DE HQ DD83 2342218

ZNR UUUUU

P 222256 AUG 78

FM DIRECTOR FBI (44-38861)

TO FBI BIRMING HAM PRIORITY

FBI CHICAGO PRIORITY

FBI DALLAS PRIORITY

FBI HOUSTON PRIORITY

FBI JACKSON PRIORITY

FBI KANSAS CITY PRIORITY

FBI MEMPHIS PRIORITY

FBI OKLAHOMA CITY PRIORITY

FBI SAN ANTONIO PRIORITY

FBI SI. LOUIS PRIORITY

B

UNCLAS

MURKIN

EXTENSIVE INVESTIGÁTION HAS ALREADY BEEN CONDUCTED IO

RESOLVE THE ALLEGATION BY BURGESS AUDIE WILSON THAT HE

ASSASSINATED MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., AND TO DETERMINE

68-544-75

7,43

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 288

---

## Page 289

in buis

PAGE TWO DE HQ 0083 UNCLAS

WILSON'S WHEREABOUTS ON APRIL 4, 1968, IHE DAY KING WAS

ASSASSINATED. IN ADDITION, IF NOI ALREADY DONE, THE

FOLLOWING OFFICES SHOULD CONDUCI THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL

INVESTIGATION:

SAN ANTONIO:

WILSON ALLEGED ON AN UNSPECIFIED DATE MIICH (NU)

FURNISHED HIM A JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE WHICH HE ALLEGEDLY

USED IO SHOOT KING. DEBRA JONES, DAUGHTER, ADVISED HE WAS

ARRESTED ABOUT FOUR AND ONE HALF YEARS AGO AT BROWNSVILLE,

TEXAS, WHILE INTOXICATED AFTER HAVING MADE THREATS TO KILL

HIS WIFE, AND THE POLICE FOUND A RIFLE IN HIS CAR.

SAN ANTONIO AT BROWNSVILLE, OBTAIN DETAILS OF THIS ARRESI,

AND OBTAIN ANY DESCRIPIION OF RIFLE REPORTEDLY LOCATED BY

POLICE.

JACKSON:

APPARENTLY REFERRING TO A SKETCH OF KING'S KILLER,

WILSON TOLD THE GLADDENS WORKING ASSOCIATES IN OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISSISSIPPI) THAT IT WAS ALMOST AN EXACT LIKENESS OF HIM AND

ECAUSE IT WAS RECENTLY SHOWN ON TV, HE DECIDED TO TURN HIM-

SELF IN. WILSON SAID HE HAS A SISTER IN FULION, MISSISSIPPI,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 289

---

## Page 290

!

PAGE THREE DE HQ

UNCLAS

WHO IELEPHONED HIM IN OCEAN SPRINGS TO SAY THAT THE SKETCH

LOOKED JUST LIKE HIM.

JACKSON, IN YOUR ATTEMPI TO LOCATE CHRISTINE WILSON,

SISTER, AT FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, IF NOT ALREADY DONE, ALSO

INTERVIEW HER RE ALLEGED CALL RE SKETCH DESCRIBED ABOVE.

MEMPHIS :

WILSON ADVISED THE TWO WHITE MALES IN MEMPHIS TOOK HIM TO

A HOTEL ON SOUTH MAIN STREET NEAR BEALE STREET AND TOOK HIM

TO A ROOM ON IHE THIRD FLOOR. MEMPHIS ADVISE PROXIMITY OF

THIS ADDRESS TO ACTUAL KING ASSASSINATION LOCATION.

OPAL HOOTEN, MOTHER OF BEITY LOU WADE, WAS UNABLE TO

FURNISH SPECIFIC DATES OF VISITS, OF BETTY AND DEBRA, HOWEVER,

WOULD CHECK FAMILY MEDICAL RECORDS. DEBRA ALSO STATED WHILE

HER MOTHER BETTY AND HER WERE IN MEMPHIS VISITING HOOTENS

AT TIME KING WAS ASSASSINATED, BETTY CALLED WILSON IN KANSAS

CITY AT LEAST TWO TIMES.

MEMPHIS FOLLOW STATUS OF HOOTEN LOCATING FAMILY MEDICAL

RECORDS, AND DETERMINE WHETHER SHE HAS ANY TELEPHONE RECORDS,

OR IF SAME ARE AVAILABLE AT TELEPHONE COMPANY, SHOWING ANY

CALLS TO KANSAS CITY, OR BRANDVIEW AREA, DURING PERIOD OF

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 290

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## Page 291

PAGE FOUR DE HQ BOS

UNCLAS

"APRIL, 1968.

ALL RECIPIENT OFFICES:

SUTEL SUMMARY RESULTS OF ANY INVESTIGATION STILL

OUTSTANDING, AND PROMPTLY SUBMIT REPORIS REPORTING ALL

INVESTIGATION CONDUCIED RE WILSON'S ALLEGATION, DESIGNATING

4 COPIES TO BUREAU, AND 3 TO MEMPHIS, WIIH COPY DESIGNATED

FOR USA MEMPHIS.

BT

0D83

NNNN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 291

---

## Page 292

VZCZCHQO 083

PP BH CG DL HO JN KC ME OC SL SA

DE HQ 0583 2342218

ZNR UUUUU

P 222266 AUG 78

FIL DIRECTOR FBI (44-38861)

TO FBI BIRMINGHAM PRIORITY

FBI CHICAGO PRIORITY

FBI DALLAS PRIORITY

FBI HOUSTON PRIORITY

FBI JACKSON PRIORITY

FBI KANSAS CITY PRIORITY

FBI MEMPHIS PRIORITY

FBI OKLAHOMA CITY PRIORITY

FBI SAN ANTONIO PRIORITY

FBI SI. LOUIS PRIORITY

UNCLAS

MURKIN

EXTENSIVE INVESTIGATION HAS ALREADY BEEN CONDUCTED TO

RESOLVE THE ALLEGATION BY BURGESS AUDIE WILSON THAT HE

ASSASSINATED MARTIN LUTHER KING, JRA, AND TO DETERMINE

62-544-75

tih

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 292

---

## Page 293

PAGE INO DE HQ NOBS UNCLAS

WILSON'S HEREABOUTS ON APRIL 4, 1966, THE DAY KING VAS

ASSASSINATED. IN ADDITION, IF GOT ALREADY DONE; THE

FOLLOWING OFFICES SHOULD CONDUCT THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL

INVESTIGAIION:

SAN ANTONIO:

WILSON ALLEGED ON AN UNSPECIFIED DATE HITCH QiUS

FURNISHED HIM A JAPANESE SNIPER RIFLE WHICH HE ALLEGEDLY

USED TO SHOOT KIG • DEBRA JONES, DAUGHTER ADVISED HE VAS

ARRESTED ABOUT FOUR AND ONE HALF YEARS AGO I BROUNSVILLE,

TEXAS, UHILE INTOXICATED AFTER HAVING MADE THREATS IO KILL

HIS VIFE, AID THE POLICE FOUND A RIFLE IN HIS GAR.

SAN ANTONIO AT BROUNSVILLE, OBTAIN DETAILS OF THIS ARRESI,

AND OBTAIN AVY DESCRIPTION OF RIFLE REPORTEDLY LOCATED BY

POLICE•

JACKSON :

APPARETLY REFERRING TO A SKETCH OF KING'S KILLER,

WILSOU TOLD THE GLADDENS CORKING ASSOGATES IN OCEAN SPRIGS;

MISSISSIPPI, THAT IT VAS ALMOST AN EXACI LIKENESS OF HAI AND •

ECAUSE IT WAS RECENILY SHOUN OI IV, HE DECIDED TO TURN MIN-.

SELF IN • WILSON SAID HE HAS A SISTER IN FULTON, MISSISSIPPI,

MW 65994 Docld:32989768. Page 293

---

## Page 294

PAGE THREE DE HQ

0083 UNCLAS

~ WHÕ TELEPHONED HIM IN OCEAN SPRINGS TO SAY THAT THE SKETCH

LOOKED JUST LIKE HIM.

JACKSO!, IN YOUR ATTEMPI TO LOCATE GHRISTINE WILSON,

SISTER, AT FULTON, MISSISSIPPI, IF NOT ALREADY DONE, ALCO

INTERVIEW HER RE ALLEGED CALL RE SKEICH DESCRIBED ABOVE.

MEMPHIS :

WILSON ADVISED THE TUO VHITE MALES IN MEMPHIS TOOK HIM TO

A HOTEL ON SOUTH MAIN STREET NEAR BEALE STREET AND TOOK HIN

TO A ROOM ON THE THIRD FLOOR, MEUPHIS ADVISE PROXIMITY OF

THIS ADDRESS TO ACTUAL KIEG ASSASSINATION LOGATION+

OPAL HOOTEN, NOTHER OF BETTY LOU WADE, VAS UNABLE TO

FURNISH SPECIFIC DATES OF VISITS OF BETTY AND DEBRA, HOWEVER,

WOULD CHECK FAHILY MEDICAL RECORDS, DEBRA ALSO STATED WHILE

HER NOTHER: BETTY AND HER WERE IN HEMPHIS VISITING HOOTENS

AT TIME KIKG WAS ASSASSINATED, BETTY CALLED WILSON IN KANSAS

CITY AT LEAST IVO TIMES.

MEMPHIS FOLLOW STATUS OF HOOTEN LOCATING FAMILY MEDICAL

RECORDS, AID DETERINE WHETHER SHE HAS ANY TELEPHONE RECORDS,

OR IF SAME ARE AVAILABLE AT TELEPHONE COMPANY, SHOVING ANY

CALLS TO KANSAS CITY, OR BRAWVIEW, AREA, DURING PERIOD OF

: NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 294

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## Page 295

PAGE FOUR DE HQ 0083 UNCLAS

~ APRIL, 1968.

ALL RECIPIENT OFFICES:

SUTEL SUMMARY RESULTS OF ANY INVESTIGATION STILL

OUTSTAID ING, ALD PROMPTLY SUBMIT REPORTS REPORTING ALL

INVESTIGATION CONDUCTED RE WILSON'S ALLEGATION, DESIGNATING

4 COPIES TO BUREAU, AID 3 TO NEPHIS, WITH COPY DESIGNATED

FOR USA MEMPHIS,

0083

NNNN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 295

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## Page 296

VZCZCHQO 665 2351735

00 HQ ME JN

DE SA

0 2316457 AUG 78

FM SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) P

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS • (44-1987) (SUB M) IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) IMMEDIATE

ALL OFFICES VIA FBI HQ

BT

UNCLAS EFT O

• ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH BUILDING.

MURKIN,

RE SA TEL AUGUST 18, 1978; DL TEL AUGUST 19, 1978, SETTING

FORTH INTERVIEW OF BETTY LOU WADE IN WHICH SHE INDICATED

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., WAS "COMMITTED IO A HOSPITAL AT

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, IN 1974 - 1975 FOR HIS UNSTABLE MENTAL CONDITION"

AND SA TEL AUGUST 19, 1978, SETTING FORTH INTERVIEW OF JO ANN

CHILDRESS WHICH INDICATED WILSON TREATED AT VETERANS ADMINISIRATION

(VA) HOSPITAL AT SAN ANTONIO.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, WALTER FELLERS, SHERIFF, COMAL COUNTY,

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ADVISED THAT BURGESS WILSON, DEPARTMENT

OF PUBLIC SAFETY OPS) NUMBER 1808984 HAD BEEN INCARCERATED IN

62-544-76

NEX TA

AUG 2 3 1978

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 296

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## Page 297

PAGE TWO (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E FI O

THE COMAL COUNTY JAIL ON THE FOLLOWING OCCASIONS: ARREST NUMBER

A8491, MARCH 1, 1976, THEFT OVER $200 AND UNDER $10, 000, ADDRESS

401 FIFTH STREET, SOUTH COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, PLED GUILTY AND

WAS SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS IN THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF

CORRECTIONS, HOWEVER, SENTENCE PROBATED FOR EIGHT YEARS.

BREST NUMBER A 8942, JUNE 8, 1976, FOR VIOLATION OF PROBATION.

ARREST NUMBER A9636, NOVEMBER 21, 1976, ON A CAPIAS FOR VIOLATION

OF PROBATION AT WHICH TIME HIS ADDRESS WAS LISTED AS ROUTE 4,

BX 6206, CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. ARREST NUMBER A 18576 ON JULY 13,

1977, FOR VIOLATION OF PROBATION.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, HAZEL KUHN, DISTRICI CLERK'S OFFICE,

STATE DISTRICI COURT, COMAL COUNTY, NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, MADE

AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW RECORDS OF THE COMAL COUNTY DISTRICT COURT •

A REVIEW OF THESE RECORDS REVEALED THAI ON SEPTEMBER 3, 1974,

WILSON WAS INDICTED BY GRAND JURY FOR THEFT OVER $209, A COLOR

* SET BEING THE PROPERTY OF DOROTHY E. WIMBERLY. ARREST WARRANT

WAS SERVED ON SEPTEMBER 2D, 1974, IN BAXTER COUNTY, ARKANSAS,

(MOUNTAIN HOME ). WILSON WAIVED EXTRADITION AND RESTITUTION

WAS MADE. CHARGE WAS FORMALLY DISMISSED ON MARCH 30, 1976.

!

| NW 65991 Docld: 2989768 Page 297

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## Page 298

PAGE THREE (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E F I O

ON FEBRUARY 7, 1975, INFORMATION WAS FILED IN COMAL

COUNTY DISTRICT COURT CHARGING WILSON WITH THEFT BY CHECK•

A CAPIAS WAS ISSUED ON FEBRUARY 7, 1975. WILSON, AKA WILLIAM

WILSON, HIGHWAY 5, MOUNTAIN HOME, ARKANSAS, WAS DOING BUSINESS

AS OZARK JEWELRY AND WATCH REPAIR. THE CHARGE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY

DISMISSED ON DECEMBER

22, 1977.

ON AUGUST 7, 1974, WILSON WAS INDICTED FOR THEFT OF

DER S20D AND UNDER $10,000. WILSON SUBSEQUENTLY PLED GUILTY

TO CHARGES AND PLACED ON EIGHT YEARS PROBATION. AS OF MARCH,

1976, WILSON ALSO HAD CAUSE NUMBER 21-797 PENDING IN THE 18IH

JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, JOHNSON COUNTY, TEXAS, FOR CRIMINAL

NON-SUPPORT AND A CASE PENDING IN OKTIBBEHA COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI,

FOR FRAUD BY FALSE PRETENSES.

HIS SPOUSE AT THAT TIME WAS LISTED AS PATRICIA WILSON,

103 KATHERINE DRIVE, STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI. WLSON WAS

SUBSEQUENTLY ARRESTED FOR VIOLATION OF PROBATION ON JUNE 8, 1976,

NOVEMBER 20, 1976, JULY 9, 1977, AND JULY 13, 1977. WILSON

WAS RELEASED FOLLOWING EACH OF THESE CHARGES AND PROBATION

CONTINUED •

__ NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 298

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## Page 299

PAGE FOUR (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E FT O

ON APRIL 22, 1974, BETTY LOU WILSON FILED PETITION FOR

DIVORCE IN COMAL COUNTY DISTRICT COURT SEEKING TO DISSOLVE

HER MARRIAGE TO BURGESS A . WILSON. THE PETITION LISTED A SON

MARK ANTHONY WILSON, BORN JANUARY 25, 1958, AT MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE.

A CROSS PETITION FILED BY WILSON

INDICATED THEY WERE

ORIGINALLY MARRIED ON DECEMBER 13, 1948, AND DIVORCED ON

NGUST 28, 1966, IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. THEY REMARRIED ON

FEBRUARY 28, 1967, AND SEPARATED ON MARCH 28, 1974. A DECREE

OF DIVORCE WAS ENTERED ON JUNE 27, 1974, GRANTING CUSTODY OF

MARK ANTHONY WILSON TO BETTY LOU WILSON AND REQUIRING BURGESS A .

WILSON TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT • A MOTION FOR CONTEMPT WAS FILED

& AUGUST 19, 1974, AS WILSON WAS IN ARREARS IN CHILD SUPPORT

PAYMENIS. THE COURT HAS BEEN UNABLE UNTIL THIS TIME TO LOCATE •

WILSON FOR THE PURPOSE OF SERVING NECESSARY PAPERS.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, FRANK ALLEN, PROBATION OFFICER, COMAL

COUNTY, TEXAS, ADVISED THAT BURGESS WILSON WAS REFERRED TO HIS

ĐFICE FOR PRESENTENCE INVESTIGATION. ALLEN ADVISED THAT AS

A RESULT OF HIS PRESENTENCE INVESTIGATION HE REPORTED THAT

FE CHANCES OF SUCCESSFUL PROBATION BY WILSON WOULD BE POOR •

INW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 299

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## Page 300

PAGE FIVE (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E F T O

ALLEN FURTHER ADVISED THAT ON JUNE 8, 1976, WILSON REPORTED

TO THE PROBATION OFFICE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL.

WILSON ADVISED THAT HE HAD BEEN WORKING WITH U.S. SECRET SERVICE,

IN SEGUIN, TEXAS, ON A COUNTERFEITING RING AND THAT MEMBERS

OF THIS RING WERE ATTEMPIING TO KILL HIM. HE ADMITTED IO BEING

UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND ASKED HIS PROBATION BE

REVOKED • WILSON WAS INCARCERATED IN THE COMAL COUNTY JAIL.

SUBSEQUENT INQUIRY BY ALLEN WITH U.S. SECRET SERVICE DETERMINED

THAT WILSON HAD FURNISHED INFORMATION OF NO VALUE TO THAT

AGENCY AND THAT THERE WAS NO COUNTERFEITING RING. AFTER

APPROXIMATELY THREE DAYS INCARCERATION WILSON ADVISED ALLEN

THAT THE REASON HE HAD REQUESTED HIS PROBATION BE REVOKED WAS

BECAUSE HE WAS SEEKING PROTECTION. HE INDICATED THAT HE WANTED

HIS PROBATION CONTINUED •

ALLEN STATED THAT HE DID NOT BELIEVE WILSON TO BE CAPABLE

OF VIOLENCE AND NOTED THAT HE EXPERIENCES ILLUSIONS OF GRANDEUR

AD IS CAPABLE OF TELLING "WILD STORIES" WHEN DRINKING.

ON APRIL 22, 1978, BARBARA HARTIGAN, RECORDS, MCKENNA

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ADVISED THAI WILSON

WAS ADMITTED TO THAT HOSPIIAL ON MAY 23, 1974, SUFFERING WITH

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 300

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## Page 301

PAGE SIX (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E F T O

SEVERE CHEST PAINS AND NUMBNESS IN THE RIGHT ARM. HE HAD AN

ABNORMAL ELECTROCARDIOGRAM AND WAS TREATED FOR CORONARY OCCLUSION.

HE FOLLOWING DAY THE PAIN DISAPPEARED AND THE ELECTROCARDIOGRAM

WAS NORMAL. WILSON LEFT THE HOSPITAL AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE

• MAY 24, 1974.

WILSON WAS AGAIN ADMITTED TO THE HOSPITAL ON MAY 28, 1974,

FOR A POSSIBLE RATTLESNAKE BITE. NO FANG MARKS WERE LOCATED

HOWEVER, THERE WAS A SLIGHTLY RAISED SCRATCHED AREA ON HIS LEFT

WRIST. SUCTION WAS APPLIED, HOWEVER, NO VENOM WAS LOCATED •

HE WAS DISCHARGED ON MAY 3D, 1974.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, HAZEL KUHN, SUPRA, ADVISED THAT ON

THE DAY WILSON WAS SCHEDULED TO APPEAR IN COMAL COUNTY DISTRICT

COURT IN CONNECTION WITH HIS DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS HE WAS ADMITTED

D THE MCKENNA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOR AN "ALLEGED" RATTLESNAKE

BITE. HIS ATTORNEY, IRVIN BOARNET OF NEW BRAUNFELS, WITHDREW

FROM THE CASE FOLLOWING THIS INCIDENT.

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, MARGI MARTIN, VA HOSPITAL, SAN ANTONIO,

TEXAS, ADVISED THAT WILSON WAS TREATED AS AN IN-PATIENT FROM

JUNE 27, 1976, IO JUNE 29, 1976, FOR INSECT BITES. HE WAS

•

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 301

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## Page 302

PAGE SEVEN (SA 44-1242) UNCLAS E FT O

TREATED AS AN OUT -PATIENT ON AUGUST 4, 1976, FOR A LIME BURN ON

HIS LEFT FOOT AND ON DECEMBER 11 AND 14, 1976, FOR A SWOLLEN

LEFT ELBOW •

REPRESENTATIVE OF COMAL COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE DEPARTED

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ON AUGUST 22, 1978, FOR THE PURPOSE

OF RETURNING WILSON TO NEW BRAUNFELS. HE IS EXPECTED TO RETURN

ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 25, 1978•

REPORT FOLLOWS.

BT

FOR ANY CORRECTIONS OR CORRECTIONS PLS CONTACT

SAN ANTONIO

23518452 JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 302

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## Page 303

VZCZCHGO 065 2351735

0O HQ ME JA

DE. 54

0 2316452 AUB . 78

FIA SAN ANTONIO. (44-1242) P

TO DIRECTOM CA4-3ES61) IMMEDIATE

MEMPHIS (44-1067) (SUB MY

IMMEDIATE

JACKSON (62-544) LAMEDIATE

ALL OFFICES VIA FEE-HO

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INGUIRIES UOIT, ROOM 3938, JEN BUILDING.

MUR KIN.

RE SA TEL AUGUST 18, 1978; DL. TEL AUGUST 19, 1976, SETTING

FORTH INTERVIEW OF SETTY LOU WADE IN WHICH SHE INDICATED.

BURGESS AUDIS VILSON, JHA, VAS "COMMITTED TO. A HOSPITAL AT

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, IN 1974 - 1975 FOR HIS UNSTÁBLE MENTAL CONDITION"

AND SA CEL AUGUST 19, 1978, SETTING FORTH INTERVIEN OF DO AN

CHILDRESS WICH INDICATED WILSON TREATED AT VETERANS AUMINISTRATION.

NAS HOSPITAL AI SAN ANTONIO.

• ON AUGUST 22, 1978, WALTER FELLERS,

SHERIFF, COMAL COUNTY,

NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, ADVISED THAT BURGESS WILSON, DEPARTMENT

OF PUBLIC SAFETY OPS, NUUBER 1838984 HAD BEEN INCARCERATED IN

63-544-16

SEARCHED

SERIALIZED.

AUG 2 3 1978-

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 303

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## Page 304

PAGE TWO (SA 44-1842) UNCLAS EF.T

THE COBAL COUNTY JAIL ON THE FOLLOWING OCCASIONS: ARREST WUMBER

AE49L, MARO!! 1,

1975, THEFT OVER 5200 AND UNDER 510,000, ADDRESS

101 FIFTN STREET, SOUTH COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI, PLED GUILTY AND

WAS SENTENCED TO FICHT YEARS IN THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF

CORRECT , .

HOWEVER, SENTENCE PROBATED FOR EIGKI YEARS:

PREST NUMBER A8942, JUNE 8, 1976, FOR VIOLATION OF PROBATION.

ARREST NUMBER A9636, NOVEMBER 21, 1976, ON A CAPIAS FOR. VIOLATION

UP, PROBATION AT WHICH TIME HIS ADDRESS WAS LISTED AS ROUTE 4,

BX 6206, CANYON LAKE, TEXAS. ARREST NUMBER A 10576 ON JULY 13,

1977, FOR VIGLATION OF PROBATION.

ON AUGUST 22; 1978s HAZEL KUMA, DISTRICT CLERK'S OFFICE,

SLATE DISTRICI COURT, COMAL COUNTY, NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS, MADE

AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW RECORDS OF INE COMAL COUNTY DISTRICI COURT.

A REVIC OF THESE RECORDS REVEALED THAT ON SEPTEMBER

3g 1974,

WILSON WAS INDICTED BY GRAND JURY FOR IMEFT OVER $200, A COLOR

V. SET BEING THE PROPERTY OF DOROTHY E: WIMBERLY• ARREST WARRAN

WAS SORVED ON SEPTEMBER 20, 1972, IN BAXTER COUNTY, ARKANSAS,

(MOUNTAIN HOME). WILSON WAIVED EXTRADITION AND RESTITUTION

VAS

MADE. CHARGE WAS FORMALLY DISMISSED ON MARCH 30g 1976.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 304

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## Page 305

PAGE TIGER (SA 14-142) UNCLAS E FID

ON FERRUARY 7, 1975, INFORMATION WAS' FILED IN COMAL.

COUNTY DISTRICT COURT CHARGING WILSON WITH THEFT BY CHECK•

A CAPIAS VAS ISSUED ON FEBRUARY T, 1817. WILSON, ANA WILLIAN

WILSOR, NIGHWAY 5, MOUNGAIN HOME, ARKANSAS , WAS DOING BUSINESS

AS UZARK JEVELRY AND WATCH REPAIR. THE CHARGE WAS SUBSEQUENILY

DISMISSED ON DECSMBER 28, 19770

ON AUGUST 7, 1974, WILSON WAS INDIOTED FOR THEFT OF Y

DEX BEBD-AND UNDER 310,000.

WILSON SUDSEQUENTLY PLED GUILTY

TO CHARGES

AND PLACED ON EIGHT YEARS PROBATION. AS CE MARCH,

1976, WILGON ALSO HAD CAUSE NUNBER 21-797 PENDING IN THE ISTH

JUDICIAL DISTRICT

COURT, JONNSON COUNTY, TEXAS, FOR CRIMINAL

NON-SUPPORT AND A CASE PENDING EN OKTIBBEMA COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI,

FOR FRAUD BY FALSE PRETENSES A

HIS SPOUCE AT THAT TIME WAS LISTED AS PATRICIA WILSON,

103 KATHERINE DHIVE, STARKVILLE, WISSISSIPPI. ULSON WAS

SUBSEQUENTLY ARRESTED FOR VIOLATION OF PROBATION ON JUNE 8, 1976,

NOVEMBER 21, 1975, JULY 9, 1977 AND JULY 13, 1977., WILSON

MAS RELEASED FOLLOWING EACH OF THESE CHARGES AND PROBATION

CONTINUED

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 305

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## Page 306

PAGE FOUR (SA 44 - 1242) UNCLAS EFTO

ON APRIL 22, 1974, BETTY LOU WILSON FILED PETITION FOR

DIVORCE IN COMAL COUNTY DISTRICT COURT SEEKING TO DISSOLVE

HER MARRIAGE TO BURGESS A . WILSOW. INE PETITION LISTED A SUN

MARK ANTHONY WILSON, BORN JANUARY

.25, 1958, AT HEMPHIS, TENESSEE.

A CROSS PETITION FILED BY WILSON INDICATED THEY WERE

ORLGINALLY MARRIED ON DECEMBER 13, 1948, AND DIVORCED ON

SGUST 28, 1966, IN MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE. THEY REMARRIED ON

FÉBRUARY 28, 1957, AND SEPARATED ON MARCH 28, 19740: A DECREE

O DIVOROS WAS ENTERED ON JUNE 27, 1974, GRANTING CUSTODY OF

MARK ANTHONY WILSON TO BETTY LOU WILSON AND REQUIRING BURGESS A •

WILSON TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT.. A MOTION FOR, CONTEMPT WAS FILED

& AUGUST 19, 1914, AS WILSON WAS IN ARREARS IN CHILD SUPPORT

PAYMENTS. THE COURT HAS BEEN UMABLE UNTIL

THIS TIME TO LOCATE

WILSON FOR THE PURPOSE OF. SERVING NECESSARY PAPERS •

ON AUGUST 22, 1978, FRANK ALLEN, PROBATION OFFICER, COMAL

COUNTY, TEXAS, ADVISED THAT BURGESS WILSON WAS REFERRED TO MIS

DICE FOR PRESENTENCE INVESTIGATION, ALLEN ADVISED THAT AS

•A NESULT OF MIS PHESENTENCE INVESTICATION HE REPORTED THAI

HE CHANGES OF

SUCCESSFUL PROBATION BY WILSON WOULD BE POOR

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 306

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## Page 307

PAGE FIVE (54 44- 1242) UNCLAS EFT O

ALLEN FURTHER ADVISED THAT ON JUNE. B, 1976, WILSOW REPORTED

TO TAC PROBATION OFFICE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL .

WILSON ADVISED THAI HE HAD. BEER WORKING WITH U.S. SECRET SERVICE,

IN SECUIN, TEXAS, ON A COUNTERFEITING RING

AND THAT MENDERS

OF THIS RING WENE ATTEMPTING TO, MILL HIM. ME ADMITTED

• TO BEING

UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND ASKED MIS PROBALION BE

REVOKED • WILSON WAS INCARCERATED IN THE COMAL COUNTY JAIL •

GUSSEQUENT INQUIRY BY ALLEN WITH U,S. SECRET SERVICE DETERMINED

THAT WILSON HAD FURNISHED INFORMATION OF MO VALUE TO THAT

"AGENCY AND THAT TRERE WAS NO COUNTERFEITING RING.

AFTER

APPROXIMATELY THREE DAYS INCARGERATION WILSON ADVISED ALLEN

THAT THE REASON HE HAD REQUESTED HIS PROBATION BE REVOKED WAS

BECAUSE HE WAS SECKING PROTECTIONS ME INDICATED THAT HE WANTED

HIS PROBATION CONTINUED.

ALLEN STATED THAT HE DID NOT BELIEVE WILSON TO BE CAPABLE

OF VIOLENCE AND NOTED THAI HE EXPERIENCES ILLUSIONS OF GRANDEUR

AD IS CAPABLE OF TELLING "WILD STORIES" WHEN DRINKING.

ON APRIL 22, 1978, BARBARA MARTIGAN, RECORDS, MCKENNA

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, NEW BRAUNPELS, TEXAS, ADVISED THAT WILSON

WAS ADMITTED TO THAT MOSPITAL ON MAY 23, 1974, SUFFERING WITH

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 307

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## Page 308

PAGE SIX (SA 44- 1242) UNOLAS EFT O

SEVERE CHEST PAINS AND-PUNBUESS IN THE RIGKE ARM. HE HAD AN

AS NORMAL ELECTROCARDICGRAM AND WÁS TREATEN FOR CORONARY OCCLUSION®

RE FOLLOWING DAY THE FAIN DISAPPEARED AND THE ELEOTROCARDIOGRAM

WAS DORNAL. WILSON LEFT THE HOSPITAL AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE

• MAY 240 1974.

WELSON WAS AGAIN ADMITTED TO THE HOSPITAL ON MAY 28$ 1974,

FOR A POSSIBLE RAITLESTAKE BITE A

NO FARG MARKS WERE LOCATED

HOVEVER, THERE WAS A SLIGHTLY RAISED SCRATCHED AREA ON HIS LEFT

MRIST • SUCTION WAS APPLIED, HOWEVER, NO VENOM WAS LOCATED.

NE WAS DISCHAROED ON MAY 30, 19740.

UN AUGUSE 22S 1973, HAZEL KUMit, SUPRA, ADVISED IMAI OW

THE DAY WILSÓN VAS SCHEDULED TO APPEAR IN CONAL COUNTY DISTRICT

COURT IN CONNECTION WITH HIS DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS HE WAS ADMITTED

O THE MCKENUA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOR AN "ALLEGED" RATILESNAKE

BITE, HIS ATTORNEY, IRVIN SOARNET OF NEW BRAUNFOLS, WITHDREV

FRUM THE CASE FOLLOWING THIS INCIDENT

ON AUGUSE 2RS 1978, MARGI MARTIN, A HOSPITAL'S SAN ANTONIO;

TEXAS, ADVISED THAI WILSON WAS TREATED AS AN IN-PATIENT FROM

JUNE 27, 1076, TO JUNE 29,

1976, FOR INSECI BITES.

HE WAS

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 308

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## Page 309

PAGE SEVEN (SA 44- 1049) UNCLAS EFT O

TREATED AS AN QUE-PATIENT ON AUGUST 4, 1976, FOR A LIME BURN ON

HIS L2rT

FOOI AND ON DECEABER 11 AND 14, 1976, FOR A SWOLLEN

LEFT ELBOW

REPRESENTATIVE OF COVAL COUNTY SHERISE'S OFFICE DEPARTED

NEY BRAUNPELS, TEXAS, Oil AUGUST 224. 1978, FOR THE FURPOSE

OF RETURNING WILSON TO NEW BRAUWELS. NE IS EXPECTED TO RETURN

ON OR DEPORE AUGUST 25, 1978.

REPORT FOLLOWS,

FOR ANY CORRECTIONS OR CORRECIIONS PLS CONTACT SAN ANTONIO

23518457.

JN 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 309 .

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## Page 310

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

X Teletype

_ Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[X Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

A GLEAR UNCLAS E ETIO

Date AUGUST 23, 1978

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY 2235 Z

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

2245₴

BT

UNCLAS EF TO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE BUTEL, AUGUST 22, 1978.

ON AUGUST 19, 1978, MRS. LEON (CHRISTINE) GUNTHARP, FULTON,

MISSISSIPPI, WAS TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED AT HER RESIDENCE AT

WHICH TIME SHE ADVISED THAT SHE IS THE SISTER OF BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR., WHOM SHE HAS HAD LIMITED CONTACT WITH DURING THE PAST

ELEVEN YEARS SINCE THE DEATH OF THEIR NATURAL FATHER AT GRENADA,

MISS. MRS. GUNTHARP ADVISED THAT HER PAST EXPERIENCE WITH HER

BROTHER, HAS PROVEN HIM TO BE AN INDIVIDUAL WITH ALCOHOL AND

APPARENT MENTAL PROBLEMS IN VIEW OF HIS ERRATIC BEHAVIOR AND

TENDENCY TO FABRICATE. SHE ADVISED THAT UNTIL THIS CONTACT SHE

&- JACKSON

62-544-79

DHG/BWW/1rm

seen

Searched

Serilised

Inder

Filed

Approved: 11/743

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 310

Transmitted

004

(Number

A bone

(Time)

WAITS

Per

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 311

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

DEFTO

I CLEAR

Date

PAGE TWO

JN 62-544

UNCLAS E F

TO

HAS HAD NO KNOWLEDGE OF HER BROTHER'S WHEREABOUTS AND HAS HAD

ONLY ONE TELEPHONE CALL FROM HIM IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, FROM AN

UNKNOWN LOCATION. SHE ADVISED THAT ALTHOUGH SHE CONSIDERS HER

BROTHER TO BE AN INTELLIGENT INDIVIDUAL, SHE RARELY BELIEVES

ANYTHING HE SAYS, ESPECIALLY WHEN HE HAS BEEN DRINKING. SHE

STATED THAT HE AT QNE TIME FLEW FOR AN AIR FREIGHT SERVICE OUT

OF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, AND ALSO HAS THE CAPABILITY OF JEWELRY

AND WATCH REPAIR.

MRS. GUNTHARP EMPHATICALLY

STATED ON AUGUST 23, 1978, THAT

SHE DID NOT CONTACT HER BROTHER "BILL" WILSON IN OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISS., IN THE RECENT PAST CONCERNING HER RECOGNITION OF A LIKENESS

TO HIM WITH REGARD TO A SKETCH OF THE KILLER OF MARTIN LUTHER KING

SEEN IN A NEWSPAPER.

INVESTIGATION, COLUMBUS, MISS., DETERMINED THE GUN REPAIR SHOP•

LOCATED BEHIND BANK IDENTIFIED AS BOX 4N GUN SHOP. THIS SHOP WAS

RUN BY A GUNSMITH NAMED PARKER NEELY WHO HAS SINCE MOVED TO TENNES-

SEE, AND WHOSE CURRENT WHEREABOUTS ARE CURRENTLY UNKNOWN TO HIS

PAST ASSOCIATES IN COLUMBUS, MISS.

INVESTIGATION AT STARKVILLE, MISS., DETERMINED WILSON WAS

MARRIED TO PATRICIA SHINDALA. SHINDALA WAS A DIVORCEE AND WILSON

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 311

Transmitted (Number)

(Time)

-

Per —

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 312

FD-36,(Fev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

[ Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

EF T O

I CLEAR

Date

PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS EFT O

USED HER ALIMONY MONEY ALONG WITH HER SETTLEMENT MONEY TO OBTAIN

A LOAN AND START A JEWELRY STORE AT A MALL IN STARKVILLE, MISS.

THIS OCCURRED IN THE SPRING OF 1975 AND THE BUSINESS LASTED

APPROXIMATELY SIX MONTHS BEFORE WILSON "FLED IN THE NIGHT," DESERT-

ING HIS WIFE AND OWING SEVERAL INDIVIDUALS. SHINDALA IS CURRENTLY

ENROLLED IN THE NURSING PROGRAM AT WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY,

SILVA, NORTH CAROLINA. WILSON IS WELL KNOWN IN THE STARKVILLE

AREA AS A "CON-ARTIST".

INVESTIGATION CONTINUING TO LOCATE PARKER NEELY AND HAVE HIM

INTERVIEWED RE WILSON'S STATEMENT THAT HE HAD THE JAPANESE SNIPER

RIFLE REWORKED AT A GUN SHOP IN COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI.

BT

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 312

Transmitted _

(Number)

Per

(Time)

FBI/ DOJ

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## Page 313

JNO 004 23522357

• PP HQ ME

DE JN

P 232230Z AUG 78

FM JACKSON (52-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00 : MEMPHIS.

RE BUTEL, AUGUST. 22, 1978.

ON AUGUST 19, 1978, MRS. LEON (CHRISTINE) GUNTHARP, FULTON,

MISSISSIPPI, WAS TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED AT HER RESIDENCE AT

WHICH TIME SHE ADVISED THAT SHE IS THE SISTER OF BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR., WHOM SHE HAS HAD LIMITED CONTACI WITH DURING THE PAST

ELEVEN YEARS SINCE THE DEATH OF THEIR NATURAL FATHER AT GRENADA,

MISS. MRS. GUNTHARP ADVISED THAT HER PAST EXPERIENCE WITH HER

BROTHER HAS PROVEN HIM TO BE AN INDIVIDUAL WITH ALCOHOL AND

APPARENT MENTAL PROBLEMS IN VIEW OF HIS ERRATIC BEHAVIOR AND

TENDENCY TO FABRICATE. SHE ADVISED THAT UNTIL THIS CONTACT SHE

62-544-77

Searched

Serialized

Indexed

Filed

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 313

---

## Page 314

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F T O

HAS HAD NO KNOWLEDGE OF HER BROTHER 'S WHEREABOUTS AND HAS HAD

ONLY ONE TELEPHONE CALL FROM HIM IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, FROM AN

UNKNOWN LOCATION. SHE ADVISED THAT ALTHOUGH SHE CONSIDERS HER

BROTHER TO BE AN INTELLIGENT INDIVIDUAL, SHE RARELY BELIEVES

ANYTHING HE SAYS, ESPECIALLY WHEN HE HAS BEEN DRINKING. SHE

STATED THAT HE AT ONE TIME FLEW FOR AN AIR FREIGHT SERVICE OUT

OF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, AND ALSO HAS THE CAPABILITY OF JEWELRY

AND WATCH REPAIR.

MRS. GUNT HARP EMPHATICALLY STATED ON AUGUST 23, 1978, THAT

SHE DID NOT CONTACT HER BROTHER "BILL" WILSON IN OCEAN SPRINGS,

MISS., IN THE RECENT PAST CONCERNING HER RECOGNITION OF A LIKENESS

TO HIM WITH REGARD TO A SKETCH OF THE KILLER OF MARTIN LUTHER KING

SEEN IN A NEWSPAPER.

INVESTIGATION, COLUMBUS, MISS., DETERMINED THE GUN REPAIR SHOP

LOCATED BEHIND BANK IDENTIFIED AS BOX 4N GUN SHOP. THIS SHOP WAS

RUN BY A GUNSMITH NAMED PARKER NEELY WHO HAS SINCE MOVED TO TENNES-

SEE, AND WHOSE CURRENT WHEREABOUTS ARE CURRENTLY UNKNOWN TO HIS

PAST ASSOCIATES IN COLUMBUS, MISS.

INVESTIGATION AT STARKVILLE, MISS., DETERMINED WILSON WAS

MARRIED TO PATRICIA SHINDALA• SHINDALA WAS A DIVORCEE AND WILSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 314

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## Page 315

PAGE THREE JN 62-544 UNCLAS E F I O

USED HER ALIMONY MONEY ALONG WITH HER SETTLEMENT MONEY TO OBTAIN

A LOAN AND START A JEWELRY STORE AT A MALL IN STARKVILLE, MISS •

THIS OCCURRED IN THE SPRING OF 1975 AND THE BUSINESS LASTED

APPROXIMATELY SIX MONTHS BEFORE WILSON "FLED IN THE NIGHT," DESERT-

ING HIS WIFE AND OWING SEVERAL INDIVIDUALS. SHINDALA IS CURRENTLY

ENROLLED IN THE NURSING PROGRAIT AT WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY,

SILVA, NORTH CAROLINA. WILSON IS WELL KNOWN IN THE STARKVILLE

AREA AS A "CON-ARTIST".

INVESTIGATION CONTINUING TO LOCATE PARKER NEELY AND HAVE HIM

INTERVIEWED RE WILSON'S STATEMENT THAT HE HAD THE JAPANESE SNIPER

RIFLE REWORKED AT A GUN SHOP IN COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI.

2352145Z HQ A 2

IKS

235215DZ ME 1

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 315

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## Page 316

DLO 923 23663XXX 23602347

PP HQ JN OC ME

DE DL

X DP 232345Z AUG 78

FM DALLAS (44-2649) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

JACKSON (62-544) PRIORITY

OKLAHOMA CITY (44-686) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987) PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS

MURKIN; 00 = MEMPHIS.

RE OKLAHOMA CITY TELETYPE TO DALLAS, AUGUST 23, 1978.

FOR INFORMATION OF RECEIVING OFFICES, REFERENCED TELETYPE

REQUESTED DALLAS IO CONDUCI TITLE SEARCH RE BONANZA AIRCRAFI,

REGISTRATION NUMBER 34L, REPORTEDLY OWNED BY BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON.

A REVIEW OF RECORDS AT THE FEDERAL RECORDS CENTER (FRC)

REFLECTS REGISTRATION NUMBER N34L WAS ASSIGNED TO A TWIN ENGINE

BEACH CRAFT IN CONTRAST TO A SINGLE ENGINE BEACH BONANZA •

THIS AIRCRAFT

WAS ORIGINALLY IMPORTED INTO SWITZERLAND

62-544-78

ada'd

goon

SEARSHED

SERIALIZED®

INDEXED.

FILED

AUG 281=73

qun

Wats AKsoN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 316

---

## Page 317

PAGE TWO DL 44-2649 UNCLAS

SOME TIME AROUND 195D. THE AIRCRAFT WAS SUBSEQUENTLY BROUGHT

BACK INTO THE UNITED STATES IN 1956, AT WHICH TIME IT RECEIVED

THE REGISTRATION NUMBER N34. IN 1959 THE OWNER, MR. LEAR, SR.,

OF LEAR, INC. SUBSEQUENTLY TOOK THE AIRCRAFT BACK TO SWITZERLAND

AND SOLD IT TO AN ITALIAN CORPORATION IN 1962. APPARENILY, FOR

INSURANCE PURPOSES, THE AMERICAN REGISTRATION NUMBER, N34L, WAS

REQUESTED TO BE DEREGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES, WHICH IT WAS

ON JULY 27, 1962.

THERE IS NO INFORMATION IN THE FILES REGARDING A SINGLE

ENGINE BONANZA, BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, OR ANY PREVIOUS OWNER WITH

LAST NAME FISHER.

JERRY PACE, SECURITY, SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS,

FAA, FORT WORTH, TEXAS, ADVISED HE TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED FAA,

OKLAHOMA CITY, AND DETERMINED REGISTRATION NUMBER N34L HAS BEEN

UNASSIGNED SINCE 1962. PACE ALSO STATED A REVIEW OF IHE 1963,

1968 AND 1969 UNITED STATES CIVIL AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION BOOKS

FAILED TO REFLECI THIS REGISTRATION NUMBER.

JACKSON WILL RE-INTERVIEW BURGESS AUDIE WILSON RE CORRECT

REGISTRATION NUMBER OF BONANZA AIRCRAFT HE CLAIMED HE OWNED AT

THE TIME OF KING'S DEATH.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 317

---

## Page 318

PAGE THREE DL 44-2649 UNCLAS

FOR INFORMATION OF RECEIVING OFFICES, IT IS NOTED WILSON

GAVE THE REGISTRATION NUMBER OF HIS AIRCRAFT AS 34L. ALL UNITED

STATES AIRCRAFT BEAR THE PREFIX "N" BEFORE THE REGISTRATION NUMBER.

DALLAS WILL SUBMIT RUC REPORT.

JN 1.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 318

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## Page 319

DLO923 23613X 23602547

PP MA JD OC HE

DE DLi

232.3452 AUG

78

FN DALLAS (44- 2649) (P)

• TO DIRECTOR (44-33801) PRIORITY

JACKSOR <62-544)

PRIORITY

OKLAHOMA CITY (44- 686) PRIORITY

MERPHIS (44-1987) • PRIORITY

37

UNCLAS

MURKIM: 00 : MERPHIS.

PE OKLAHONA CITY TELETYPE 1O DALLAS, ALGUST 23, 1973.

FOR INFORGATION OF RECEIVING OFFICES, REFERENCED TELETYPE

REQUESTED DALLAS TO CONDUCT TITLE SEARCH RE BONANZA AIRCRAFT.

KEGISTRATION KUNDER 34 , REPORISELY OUNED BY BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON.

A REVIEW OF RECORDS AT THE FEDERAL. RECORDS CENTER (FRC)

CAFLECES REGISTRATTON WUNDER N34. WAS ASSIGUED TO A TVIU ENGLE

ELACH CRAFT IN COCTRAST TO A SINGLE ENGIME BEACH BONANZA&

THIS AIRDRAFT WAS ORIGIMALLY IMPORTED INTO SUITZERLAND

SEARCHED

SERIALIZED,

6.8,544-28

INDEXED

FILED

AUG 2 3 1978

FBI-JACKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 319

---

## Page 320

PAOD TWO DL. 44-2543 UNCLAS

Sode

TIME AROGOD 10500 THS AIRCRAFT WAS SUBSCOUENTLY BROUG iT

BAGIC INTO THE UNITCO STATES IN 1956, AC WHICH TIME IT RECEIVED

THE REGISTRATION

MUMBCA 134L0. IN 1952 TRE OUNEN, iR LEAF, SR O3

OF LEAR, ING • SUESECUENTLY TOOK THE AIRCRAFT. BACK TO SWITZENLANO

AND SOLD IT TO AN ITALING CORPORATION IN 10520 APPARENTLY, FOR

TSUNANCE PURPOSES, THE AMERICAN REGISTRATION NUMBER, N34A WAS

EQUESTED TO BE DEREGISTERED IN THE UNITED STAIES, WHICH IT VAS

THERE. IS AU IEFORMATIOS IN THE FILES REGARDINO A SINGLE

ENGINE BORANA & BUCCESS AUDIE WILSON, ON ANY PREVIOUS QUNER WITH

LAST HAVE FISMER.

JERRY PACE, SECURITY; SOUTIVESTERN MEGIONAL HEADQUARTERS,

PRA, FORT VORTH, TEXAS, ADVISED HE TELEPHONICALLY CONTACTED FAA,

OKLAHONA CITY, AND DETERINED RECISIRATION NUBER A34L HAS BEEN

• UHASSIONOD SINCE 1962%

PACE ALSO STATCO & REVIED OF THE 1963+

1OSO AND 1965 UNITED STATES CIVIL AIRCRAFT REGISTRATIOM BOOKS

FAILED TO REFLECT THIS REGISTRATION RUNDER E

•JACKSON FILL RE-INTERVIEW DUNGESS ALDIE WILSON RE CORRECT

REGISIRACION NUMBER OF BONANZA AIRCRAFT HE CLAIMED HE OWNED AT

THE FINE OF KIRO 'S DEATK

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 320

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## Page 321

PAGE THREE DL 44-2549 UNCLAS

FOR INFORDATION OF RECEIVING OFFICES, IT IS NOTED WILSON

CAVE THE RECISTRATION NUMBER OF HIS AIRCRAFI AS 34L. ALL UNITEE

SIATES ALMORAFT. SEAR THE PREFIX

"j" DEFORE THE REGISTRATION MUNDER •

DALLAS WILL SUDOIT. RUC REPORT

JN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 321

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## Page 322

• SAO 123 2352209Z

PP HQ JN ME

DE SA

P 232209Z AUG 78

FM SAN ANTONIO (44- 1242) P

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY

JACKSON

(52-544) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS: (44-1987) (SUB M) PRIORITY

*LASE FTO

MERKIN.

RE BUIEL AUGUST 22, 1978.

ON AUGUST 23, 1978, A SEARCH ON BROWNSVILLE POLICE

DEPARTMENI RECORDS, CAMERON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE RECORDS,

AND CAMERON COUNTY JAIL RECORDS, FAILED TO REFLECT ANY RECORD

• IDENTIFIABLE WITH BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

BT

White-spanner

quir

SEARCHED _

62-544-19

SERIALIZED WINDED.

_ INDEXED

ANG 2 3 1978

FBI-JACKSON

Waits

fon

-NW-65994-Doeld:32989768-Page_322

---

## Page 323

SAO 123 23502294

PE HO JA ME

DE. SA

P 230205L AUG 78.

• DU CAN ANTONIO (44-1242) F

SOY DIRECTOR

144-D806D: PRIORITY

JACKSON (52-544) PRIORITY

SPHIS (44-1957) (SUB M) PRIORITY

LASGETO

HE HUTEL HUGUST 20, 1978%

WE AUQUST 229.1973, A SEANCH OF BROUSSVILLE POLIOZ

DEPARTIENT RECORDS, CAMERON COUNTY SHERIFE"S OFFICE RECOROSS

AND CAVERON

-COUNTY JAIL RECORDE, FAILED TO REFLECT ANY RECORD

IDE TIFIABLE WICH BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

SEARCHED

SERIALIZED

62-544-79

_INDEXED

FILED

AUG 2 3 1978

FBI-JACKSON

. NW 65994. Docld:32989768 Page 323

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## Page 324

FD-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

E Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[x] Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

I CONFIDENTIAL

• CLEAR

Date AUGUST 24, 1978

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) PRIORITY

1545₴

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

1840 ₴

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) PRIORITY 1555 ₴

BT

UNCLAS EFTO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00: MEMPHIS.

RE JACKSON TELETYPE, AUGUST 23, 1978; AND DALLAS TELETYPE TO

BUREAU, AUGUST 23, 1978.

DALLAS DIVISION ADVISED THAT SEARCH OF RECORDS AT FEDERAL

RECORDS CENTER (FRO) CONCERNING REGISTRATION NUMBER 34L, REPORTEDLY

FOR A BONANZA AIRCRAFT OWNED BY BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, REVEALED

THAT THE CORRECT NUMBER WOULD HAVE BEEN N34L INASMUCH AS ALL

AIRCRAFT REGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES HAS THE PREFIX "N".

REGISTRATION NUMBER N34L WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED FOR USE ON A TWIN

ENGINE BEACH CRAFT IN 1956, THE OWNER BEING MR. LEAR, SR., OF LEAR,

68-544-80

1) - JACKSON

JWN/Irm

(2) In

Inder. i

Filed

tit

Approved: ir T. Kelly As ransmital -

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 324

(Number)

Abere

(Time)

Per

FBI/DOJ

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## Page 325

J-36 (Rev. 3-24-77)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

[ Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

CONFIDENTIAL

ДЕЕТО

I CLEAR

Date

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS EE TO

INC., WHO SUBSEQUENTLY TOOK THE AIRCRAFT TO SWITZERLAND AND SOLD

IT TO AN ITALIAN CORPORATION IN 1962. A REQUEST WAS RECEIVED THAT

THE PLANE BE DE-REGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES, WHICH IT WAS ON

JULY 27, 1962. NO RECORD COULD BE LOCATED WHICH WOULD INDICATE

ANY USE OR REFERENCE TO THIS REGISTRATION NUMBER AFTER THAT DATE.

NO RECORD WAS LOCATED REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON.

SAN ANTONIO DIVISION AT NEW BRAUNFELLS, TEXAS. WILL REINTER-

VIEW BURGESS AUDIE WILSON RE CORRECT REGISTRATION NUMBER OF THE

BONANZA AIRCRAFT HE CLAIMED HE OWNED AT THE TIME OF KING'S DEATH.

BT

Approved: -

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 325

Transmitted

Per

(Number)

(Time)

FBI/DOS

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## Page 326

JNO 0D1 2361545Z

PP HQ ME SA

DE JN

P 241530Z AUG 78

FM JACKSON (62-544) (P)

TO DIRECTOR (44-33861) PRIORITY

MEMPHIS (44-1987 SUB M) PRIORITY

SAN ANTONIO (44-1242) PRIORITY

BT

UNCLAS E FIO

ATTENTION: CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRIES UNIT, ROOM 8988, JEH.

MURKIN; 00 : MEMPHIS.

RE JACKSON TELETYPE, AUGUST 23, 1978; AND DALLAS TELETYPE TO

BUREAU, AUGUST 23, 1978.

DALLAS DIVISION ADVISED THAI SEARCH OF RECORDS AT FEDERAL

RECORDS CENTER (FRC) CONCERNING REGISTRATION NUMBER 34L, REPORTEDLY

FOR A BONANZA AIRCRAFT OWNED BY BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, REVEALED

THAT THE CORRECI NUMBER WOULD HAVE BEEN N34L INASMUCH AS ALL

AIRCRAFT REGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES HAS THE PREFIX "N".

REGISTRATION NUMBER N34L WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED FOR USE ON A TWIN

ENGINE BEACH CRAFT IN 1956, THE OWNER BEING MR . LEAR, SR • , OF LEAR,

62-544-80

Searched

serinlised.

Irdera1

Piled

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 326

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## Page 327

*.

PAGE TWO JN 62-544 UNCLAS E FI O

INC., WHO SUBSEQUENTLY TOOK THE AIRCRAFI TO SWITZERLAND AND SOLD

IT TO AN ITALIAN CORPORATION IN 1962. A REQUEST WAS RECEIVED THAT

THE PLANE BE DE REGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES, WHICH IT WAS ON

JULY 27, 1962. NO RECORD COULD BE LOCATED WHICH WOULD INDICATE

ANY USE OR REFERENCE TO THIS REGISTRATION NUMBER AFTER IHAI DATE.

NO RECORD WAS LOCATED REGARDING BURGESS AUDIE WILSON.

SAN ANTONIO DIVISION AT NEW BRAUNFELLS, TEXAS. WILL REINTER -

VIEW BURGESS AUDIE WILSON RE CORRECT REGISTRATION NUMBER OF THE

BONANZA AIRCRAFT HE CLAIMED HE OWNED AT THE TIME OF KING'S DEATH.

BT

2361743 Z ME

1

33615152 SA

NW 65994 Pesld:32289768 Page 327

---

## Page 328

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/22/78

presence of WILSON and the following items were contained

therein:

Current Texas driver's license #7911315 under

A slip of paper bearing the name MADLYN, 304

Beresford, no city listed, telephone 455-3765.

A slip of paper with the name WILL CAMPBELL,

875-4380.

A business card for DANIEL D. GUICE, JR.,

Field supervisor, Mississippi Probation and Parole

Office, Biloxl, Mississippi, telephone 432-2271.

On the reverse side of the business card

was an inked notation 1005 Hickory Hill Lane, C-103,

Hermitage, Tennessee 37076.

Business card for MAX D. MURRAY, Advertising

Representative,

Austin, Texas, American Statesman.

Business card for DAN LEARNER, telephone 388-9601,

Craftsman Workshop, Edgewater Mall, Biloxi, Mississippi.

Business card for DENNIS SULLIVER, Chief Engineer,

Red Fox Industries,

_ Incorporation, New Iberia, Louisiana,

telephone number 365-8131.

Business card for LOUIS P. HELM, Realtor,

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 875-2098 and 875-0016.

Interviewed on

8/18/78

_at Ocean Springs, MississipPile#

Jackson 62-544-81

K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./bjw

by

Date dictated

8/21/78

i deceit contain coriches recent to be distro con luside out By. It is the property of the FBI and is loned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 328

---

## Page 329

JN 62-544

Business card for TRAVIS GARNER, Building

Officials, City of Ocean Springs, 875-4236.

In inked note "State Farm Claims Office

Gulfport, Mississippi, 896-6353".

An inked note bearing the name of KARL

FASOID, 863-4761.

A payroll check voucher for WILSON from

July 12, 1978.

Business card for Louisiana Off-short Caterors,

JIM FONTENOT, Personnel Director, Houma, Louisiana,

876-3642.

A note bearing the name BOB CAZOET, 214-521-4195.

A bill of sale bearing the name of VERA M.

NEVILL, Canyon Lake, Texas, Route 4, Box 620G.

A payroll voucher for WILSON from Gulf Coast

Catering Company, New Iberia, Louisiana, for the

period ending June 16, 1978.

A note bearing the name TAD MURRAY, Monroe,

Louisiana, 323-7382, or 728-4060.

A credit bill for Beall's Department Store,

Jacksonville, Texas, under the name of BURGESS A. WILSON,

067001572.

A Veteran's Administration patient data card

card 42234127 ° BURGESS A. WILSON, Canyon Lake, Texas,

Incorporat bu doese card fox, out, short services, .

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 329

---

## Page 330

JN 62-544

Lake, Texas.

A Federal Communications Commission radi

license #6H4659, issued to WILSON on September 26, 1960.

A business card for Ler-Son International

Incorporated, Houma, Louisiana.

An inked note bearing the names of STAN

3ULLARD and Jones Builders of Long Beach, Mississippi.

A business card for BILL WILSON Builders,

Solar Screens and Doors, Custom Homes, Canyon Lake,

Texas, and 817 East Nuclid, San Antonio, Texas.

A card bearing WILSON's Social Security

Number 422-34-1275.

A credit type card from the Security State

Bank, Starkville,

Mississippi, under the name of

Colonel BURGESS A. WILSON, USAF, retired, #3038940.

Private pilot certificate number 1106770

64030, is authorized to fly single and multi-engine

land airplanes.

A Department of Transportation form for a

bi-annual flight review dated July 18, 1978, giving

instructor's name CARL FOWLER, and aircraft piper

C-152, certificate #542727734, dated September 30,

1978, to expire July 31, 1980, showing that subject

is authorized to fly private

aircraft.

certificate first class form signed by DI. JAMES B.

MARtIN, Ocean springs, Mississippi, on August y, 19/0,

A Par at of Tranport i not 5, 3978,

iving the examining physician serial as 12021-1.

A receipt from Dr. JAMES B. MARTIN, #14168,

dated August 9, 1978, in the amount of $25 for a flight

physical.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 330

---

## Page 331

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/23/78

Detective KEVIN ALVES, Ocean Springs, Mississippi,

Police Department, accompanied by Ocean Springs Patrolman

MICHAEL W. PITALO

and Officer-Intern JOHN CHARLES THOMPSON

arrested BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., also known as "BILL"

at 7:35 p.m., on August I8, driven by Reverend NoEL

while WILSON was a

Mississippi.

The arrest was affected without incident and was based

on information

on a probation violation by the New Braunsells, Texas,

Police Department.

Immediately after the arrest, WILSON was transported

by the Ocean Springs Police to the Ocean Springs Police

Department where he was processed for confinement in the

Ocean Springs City Jail.

Detective ALVES advised that after WILSON was

brought to the Ocean Springs Police Department, he voluntarily

stated on three different occasions without being questioned

that he was the man that shot MARTIN LUTHER KING.

According

to Detective ALVES, WILSON referred to the Shelby County,

Tennessee, Sheriff

saying that it had been arranged prior

to this date that WILSON would give himself up to the

sheriff. ALVES further advised that WILSON claimed he

had been a colonel in the U.S. Air Force and had flown

with the Shelby County Sheriff while in the service.

ALVES further advised that WILSON stated he wants

to "deal with the FBI"

WILSON told ALVES that he would

talk to the FBI only if "we take him to Memphis to see

the sheriff of shelby county where he will talk in front

of any FBI Agent"• WILSON also voluntarily told Detective

ALVES that the reason he shot MARTIN LUTHER KING was that

KING was directly or indirectly the cause of the death of

some member of WILSON's family.

Interviewed on

8/18/78

_ot Ocean Springs, Mississippile# Jackson 62-544-82

SA R. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./bjw

Date dictated -

8/21/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 331

---

## Page 332

JN 62-544

Detective ALVES advised that he had warned

the subject of his rights and WILSON had signed a

Waiver of Rights for Detective ALVES.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 332

---

## Page 333

ED-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription August 19, 1978

ba teNd trialed the following information co A ROXOE

Mr. WILSON advised that he was born August 28, 1931,

at Fulton, Mississippi, and that he resided with his family at

Golden, Mississippi, until 1936, at which time the family moved

to Eldridge,

attended school until the eighth

grade and then went to high school at Carbon Hill, Alabama,

until 1947.

He advised on May 2, 1947, he entered the U. S. Air

Force and was discharged in 1950. He stated that after being

out of the Air Force for approximately eight months he was

recalled for the Korean War and stayed in until February, 1960,

at which time he was given an honorable discharge.

He and his wife, BETTY LOU WILSON, moved to Memphis,

Lennessee,

following his discharge, where he worked for

Prudential Insurance Company for approximately one year•

After Leaving Prudential Insurance Company, he operated &

laundry and cleaning business in Memphis.

During this time,

he was also in the Tennessee Air National Guard.

He left Memphis, Tennessee, went to Grandview,

Missouri, where he became a civil service employee in the Air

Force Reserve.

He stayed employed in the Air Force Reserve

until 1970.

From 1966 until 1970, he also operated a jewelry

store business.

In 1970, he and wife, BETTY WILSON, moved to Memphis,

Lennessee, and opened a jewelry business in Bartlett,

Tennessee.

In addition to the jewelry business, he also built

aluminum storage buildings. He stated that in

tornado hit his business and destroyed it.

He then went to San Antonio, Texas, and became

employed by the Air Force Reserve as a flight engineer.

Her

also operated a jewelry store in San Antonio until 1974, when

Interviewed on -

_8/19/78

_acean Springs, MississippiFile# Jackson 62-544-53

SA LIE DAVID TANTRIC

Date dictated

8/19/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 333

---

## Page 334

JN 62-544

He then went to Mountain Home, Arkansas, and opened

a jewelry store and married AVIS LEA HUNTER.

He was married

O HUNTER for approximately six months

and they divorced.

JUNTER now resides at 1010 Hickory Hill Lane, Hermitage,

Tennessee.

He then went to Columbus, Mississippi, where he

worked in the gubernatorial campaign for Governor CLIFF FINCH

While in Columbus, he married PATRICIA SHINDALA of Starkville

Mississippi. He also advised that while in Columbus he sola

He stated that during the gubernatorial

campaign it was suggested that he tell people that he was a

retired colonel and

an ex-prisoner of war to campaign for

FINCH.

He stated that after the campaign was over, he was

dropped by the FINCH people.

He left Columbus,

Mississippi, in January, 1976, and

He went to Texas for the purpose of

clearing up some "charges" against him at New Braunfels, Texas.

He advised that he went to Dallas, Texas, to see a

friend, and while there, he called his son and asked him to

come see him, and shortly thereafter the police arrived and

arrested him

on a charge of non-child support on a warrant

issued for him at Cleveland,

Texas.

He was released to

authorities from New Braunfels, where he pled guilty to a

charge of theft by check and received a sentence of eight

years probation.

He advised that he then stayed in the vicinity of

New Braunfels where he did construction work. He had an

altercation with another employee; and he was arrested for

violation of his probation but was released a couple of weeks

later •

He continued working around New Braunfels and was again

arrested for possession of stolen merchandise which actually

was a dispute between himself and

an associate over some

property that he had stored for the associate, and the charges

were subsequently dropped. He continued in the construction

business and married JO ANN CHILDRESS, and they were divorced

after three months.

In January of 19/8, he went to Houma, Louisiana,

and went to work for Louisiana Off-Shore Caterers and worke

there until April, at which time he went to work for Gulf Coast

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 334

---

## Page 335

JN 62-544

Caterers of New Iberia, Louisiana, and worked there until

Springs, Mississippi, and opened a jewelry shop. He lived

at the Twin Pines Apartments the first three weeks he was

in Ocean Springs and then moved to Route 6, Box 387.

He furnished the following description of himself:

Name

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

Also known as

Bill

Date of birth

August 28

3, 1931

Place of birth

Fulton, Mississippi

Height

5 feet 11 inches

Weight

170 pounds

Eyes

Brown

Hair

Gray

Social Security Number

422-34-1275

Education

Military service

High school graduate

U. S. Air Force

1947-1960

Father

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, SR.

(deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

Mother

Stepmother

Brother

MITTIE DALE (deceased)

LILLIE MAE WILSON (deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

ALLISON

TOWERS WILSON

Reform,

Alabama

Sister

LYDA MC GAHEY

2002 East Eighth Avenue North

Columbus, Mississippi

Sister

CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE

Fulton, Mississippi

Ex-wife

BETTY LOU WILSON WADE

Burleson, Texas

Ex-wife

AVIS LEA HUNTER

1010 Hickory Hill Lane

Hermitage, Tennessee

Ex-wife

PATRICIA SHINDALA

Starkville, Mississippi

believed killed in car

accident)

Ex-wife

JO ANN CHILDRESS

113 Mill Street

San Marcos,

Texas

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 335

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## Page 336

.. ...

JN 62-544

Daughter

Son

Son

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 336

DEBORAH ANN JONES,

husband CHARLES,

Belvedere, Illinois

STEVEN WAYNE WILSON

Texas

BARL ANTHONE WILSON

Burleson, Texas

---

## Page 337

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription -

August 19, 1978

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

information to ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT and K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.,

who he knows to be Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investi-

gation, after having been advised the purpose of the interview being

his knowledge and involvement in the murder of Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING

after having been advised of his Constitutional rights which he

waived as indicated by an Advice of Rights and Waiver of Rights Form

which he signed:

Mr. WILSON advised that at the time prior to the murder of

MARTIN LUTHER KING, he was living in Grandview, Missouri, in a house

on byers Road with his wife, BElTY LOU, and his three children,

DEBORAH, STEVE, and MARK. He was in the Air Force Reserve and

also

operated a jewelry store.

In the course of his jewelry business, he met a white male

Italian who was in his late sixties and was approximately 5 feet 9

inches tall, weighed approximately 230 pounds, and who operated a

jewelry trade shop on Walnut Street.

He stated that this white male

introduced him to another white male Italian by the name of MITCH

(Last Name Unknown), who was in his mid fifties and was approximately

5 feet 10 inches tall, and weighed approximately 190 pounds, who had

hair and had some connection with a bonding company, and

a13C MITCH's brother, name not recalled, who fit the same physical

description as MITCH, but who had numerous cut scars on his face.

He stated that, MITCH started delivering jewelry to him for

the purpose of having the stones removed from the fittings. He stated

MITCH usually met him at a bar on Walnut Street which was run by a

white female and it also

appeared that MITCH might have been a part

owner of had an interest in this bar. He stated that due to the

volume of jewelry that MITCH was bringing to him, he asked MITCH

about it, and MITCH advised him that it was stolen jewelry. MITCH

told him, however, that he, WILSON, was in as deep as he, MITCH,

and that he would have to continue

working with MITCH. He stated

this relationship with MITCH continued until 1970.

He stated that MITCH brought up the idea of killing KING

and said that there was a

$50,000 contract on him. However, he

8/19/78

Interviewed on

_atocean Springs, Mississippfile# Jackson 62-544-54

SA K. P.

WHITE-SPUNNER Lip

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT/RDH/mae

8/19/78

by

Date dictated

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 337

---

## Page 338

JN 62-544

never said who put out the contract but said that he could get

the money for WILSON if he killed. KING.

WILSON stated that MITCH was well aware of his, WILSON's,

thoughts concerning KING and the black civil rights movement, in

that his father, who was a pastor of the Central Baptist Church at

Grenada, Mississippi, died of a heart attack which he, wILSON,

thought was caused as a result of racial tensions at Grenada brought

on by the forceful integration of his father's church.

WILSON stated that approximately five or six months before

KING's murder, he started

gathering information on the movements,

habits, and whereabouts of KING.

WILSON advised that he had a red and white Bonanza airplane,

Register Number 34L, and a Cessna 310 twin-engine aircraft, which was

blue and white, which planes he used to fly to different places

where KING was

supposed to be.

He stated that he recalls going to

Huntsville, Alabama; Tupelo, Mississippi; Jackson, Tennessee; Atlanta,

Georgia; and Greenville, South Carolina.

He stated that while at

Tupelo, Mississippi, he stayed in the Ramada Inn and believes that

other places

he visited he stayed in Holiday Inns.

He stated that MITCH furnished him a Japanese sniper rifle.

He stated that he kept the rifle and that just before Christmas of

1975, he had it reworked at a gunshop in Columbus, Mississippi, on

Fourth Street across from a bank. He stated that the last knowledge

he had of the rifle, his older son, STEVEN WAYNE WILSON, had the

rifle and

a shotgun

but had told him that he had sold it.

Mr. WILSON advised that there was a garbage strike in

progress at Memphis, Tennessee, and that MITCH called him at his

store in Grandview,

Missouri, and told him that KING was coming to

Memphis Ior. a rally and instructed WILSON to come to Memphis where

he was to meet two men at the Wonder Bar located at the corner of

Summer Avenue and White Station Road.

Mr. WILSON advised that he Ilew to Memphis, l'ennessee,

in the Bonanza aircraft and landed at an airport just north of

Raleigh, Tennessee.

He stated that the airport was operated by a

long-time acquaintance of his who had attended a church which was

pastored by WILSON's father in the past.

WILSON stated that his

daughter, DEBORAH, picked him up at the airport in her 1965 white

Mustang,

which WILSON had previously bought for her and which was

registered in his name in Missouri.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 338

---

## Page 339

JN 62-544

He advised that DEBORAH and her mother, BETTY LOU, were

staying at the residence of WILSON's father-in-law, VERNON HOOTEN,

3095 Ruskin Road, Memphis, Tennessee.

He stated that HOOTEN had had

a heart attack and that his wife and daughter were temporarily stay-

ing at the HOOTEN residence.

WILSON advised that he went to the Wonder Bar and while

having a drink two white men approached him, one having an accent

similar to a Puerto Rican.

The two white males furnished him with FBI credentials,

which he stated had a black and white photograph of himself on it,

and they took him and showed him where KING was to hold the rally.

They then took WILSON to a hotel on South Main Street near Beale

Street and took him to a room on the third floor.

They told him

he was to be in the crowd at the rally and that a decoy shot was to

be fired and that he was then to shoot.

They said that KING had a

habit of raising his arms over his head when he was making a speech

and that the second time that he did so, the shots were to be fired.

WILSON stated that on the day of the murder he was in the

crowd standing near

a wood fence approximately 60 feet from where

KING was standing and that when KING raised his arms the second time

he shot him.

Mr. WILSON advised that he had the rifle which he used

strapped to his belt under a suit coat and attached to his belt on

a swivel.. He stated that the barrel protruded from below his coat

but no one questioned him concerning it. He said that he had prac-

ticed a great deal swiveling the rifle and firing it.

He advised that after the shooting, he was stopped by the

Memphis police, but he showed them the credentials, and they let

him go, and he

walked on down the street approximately two blocks

to where he had left the

Mustang parked. He advised that he got

in the. Mustang and drove back to

the HOOTEN residence, and his

laughter,

DEBORA, then took him to the airport, and he got his

flew back to Kansas City. He stated that the airport

that he used was on the Kansas side on the highway to Olathe,

Kansas. He stated the airport was run by (First Name Unknown)

FISHER.

He also stated that he had purchased the Bonanza aircraft

from FISHER.

WILSON advised that approximately one week before the

murder, MITCH

murder, MITCH gave him $25,000 in $20 bills, and following the

gave him another $25,000, at which time he gave the

credentials back to MITCH.

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 339

---

## Page 340

JN 62-544

WILSON advised that he has no knowledge of JAMES EARL

RAY having been involved in the conspiracy.

4

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 340

---

## Page 341

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

--

Date of transcription.

8/23/78

Reverend JOE BELL, Pastor, Central Baptist

Church, Grenada, Mississippi, furnished the following

information:

seate at chures are an a hear attack ba.

January 7, 1967. BELL stated that WILSON was the

pastor of the Central Baptist Church for approximately

13 years, or from 1954 to 196/•

BELL stated that prior to coming to Grenada,

B. A. WILSON was at Camp Creek at Fulton, Mississippi,

and prior to that was at Lynn Station, which is

located north of Jasper, Alabama, and also at

Eldridge, Alabama.

Concerning the WILSON family, BELL stated

that B. A. WILSON's wife was known as LILLY WILSON.

chaser are on and he her at that eti.

children

BELL identified the WILSON children as

follows:

1.

Mrs. CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic)

Fulton, Mississippi

2.

BILL WILSON

Kansas City, Kansas

3.

LIDA (Last Name Unknown)

Columbus, Mississippi

4. One other son, name not known.

BELL stated that LILLY WILSON was B. A. WILSON's

second wife as B. A. WILSON's first wife died when the children

were young.

Interviewed on -

8/19/78

-File # JN 62-544 - 85

by

at _Oxford, Mississippi

SA KENNETH P. HUGHES/dew

Date dictated 8/20/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor codclusions of the ft. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned tos

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 341

---

## Page 342

JN 62-544

Mississippi, sa was past he at the entral Baptisen da,

Church beginning in March, 1967.

Concerning BILL WILSON, BELI stated that he

Freight or ferried planes from Kansas City, Kansas, to

the island of Guam.

BELL stated that BILL WILSON caused his

father, B. A. WILSON, many problems with debts and

money, and BELL stated he believed that BILL WILSON

was arrested in California for embezzlement, city and

state not known.

BELL stated that BILL WILSON flew into

Memphis, Tennessee,

on a sunday atter his father

died on

January 7, 1967, and BELL stated he believed

chat Bild WILSON was met by the family at the Memphis,

lennessee airport. BELL recalled that the funeral

for B. A. WILSON was on the followng

he, BELL, left Grenada, Mississippi o the Tuesday after

B. A. WILSON's funeral. BELL stated he did not know

how long BILL WILSON stayed in Grenada, Mississippi

after his father's funeral.

BELL described BILL WILSON as a white male,

sandy hair, and stated that he did talk with BILL

WILSON's second wife whom he described as a bleached

BELL stated he did no

BELL stated that B. A. and LILLY WILSON

BELL stated that he had talked with

LILLY WILSON after B. A. WILSON's death, and stated

that LILLY WILSON was desperately afraid of BILL

WILSON, and told BILL WILSON she never wanted to

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 342

---

## Page 343

JN 62-544

lay eyes on him again, or have him, BILL WILSON, set

foot in her house.

BELL further stated that LILLY

WILSON did not want BILL WILSON to get any of his

BILL WILSON

R, had asey received he shahe of the

estate by his father, B. A. WILsO

BaLl stated paying believed

amount of $5,000 was the figure mentioned.

BELL stated that LILLY WILSON is now

deceased, stating that she had left Grenada, Mississippi,

and went

to a nursing home at Fulton, Mississippi,

where she died approximately one year go.

BELL stated that he did hear that BILL WILSON

did get his father'

brother,

name not known, argued or disagreed over

who would get this shotgun, which BELL stated was worth

approximately $150 or $200 at that time.

that he heard that the other WILSON brother walked

out in disgust, and apparently left the shotgun with

BILL WILSON.

BELL stated that CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic)

was the administrator of the estate, and an attorney

by the rame of FREDERIsks read the will.

BELL concluded by stating that the State

and their locations.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 343

---

## Page 344

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/22/78

LYDIA MC GAHEY, 2002 East 8th Avenue North,

Columbus, Mississippi, was advised of the identity

of the interviewing Agent and of the nature of the

inquiry. MC GAHEY thereafter provided the following

information:

MC GAHEY stated that she is the sister of

serious drinking problem that came to the surface

shortly after the death of their father in 1967.

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON had been

very close to their father and became extremely upset

and distressed after he passed away. MC GAhey advised

that WILsON may have had

a drinking problem prior to

the death of their father, but that she only noticed

it after their father passed away in 1967.

MC GAHEY advised that on this past Thursday

night at approximately 11:00 p.m. (August 1/, 1910),

she received a telephone call

from her brother, BILI

WILSON, and during that call he indicated to her that

he had

killed Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MC GAHEY

stated that she did not take her brother

seriously

as he has a history of telling untrue

and stated that

she quickly asked him if he was "rauel"

MC GAHEY

advised that her brother indicated to her he did not

know what she was talking about.

MC GAHEY advised that approximately one week later

she received a similar telephone call from BILL WILSON

and on this occasion, he told her that their brother,

ALLYSON WILSON, Reform, Alabama, had suffered a heart

attack. MC GAHEY stated that she immediately called

her brother in Reform, Alabama, and found that he was

in perfect health.

MC GAHEY stated that on another occasion, BILL

WILSON had called her and told her that he had been involved

Interviewed on -

8/19/78

by

-at Columbus, Mississippi

ЯХН

SA GWYNNE L. HUPFER/bjw

_ File #

Jackson 62-544-86

Date dictated

8/21/78

This document cont ais nites are not to be distri con lusion out a . It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 344

---

## Page 345

JN 62-544

in an airplane crash but that he had survived this crash.

She stated that she later found out this was not true

at all.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON has been

married several times and has had numerous girl friends.

She stated that several of his ex-wives and several of

his girl friends have contacted her and asked her if

it was true that BILL WILSON had been a prisoner of

war. She stated that she assured all of them that this

was

not the case.

MC GAHEY advised that in 1968, to the best of

her recollection, BILL WILSON was living in Grandview,

Missouri, and was working at the Wilbur Jewelry Store,

Belton,

Missouri.

She stated that WILSON told her that

he owned this jewelry store, but she later found out

that he just was an employee there.

She stated that

BILL WILSON never went to Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968,

to the best of her knowledge.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON moved to

Columbus, Mississippi, around the first of June, 1975,

but left Columbus,

Mississippi, around the last of

August, 1975.

She stated that when he left Columbus,

Mississippi, he moved to Starkville197 ssissippi, and

stayed there until

around January,

She advised

that while he was living in Starkville, Mississippi,

he married PAT SHINBOLA, 103 Catherine Drive, Starkville,

Mississippi, telephone number 323-6717.

MC GAHEY indicated

that arter her brother left Starkville, Mississippi,

(and left PAT SHINBOLA) he went to the State of Texas.

She indicated that shortly after his arrival in Texas,

he was placed in jail in San Antonio.

She stated that

she received numerous letters from BILL WILSON while

ne was incarcerated in san Antonio, Texas, and recalled

that the jail was on

"Mill Street"

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON was married

to BETTY WADE, 233 Smith Street, Burleson, Texas, for

several years. She stated that to the best of her

recollection, her brother was married to BETTY WADE in

1968. She stated that he received a divorce from her on

one occasion and that they later remarried. MC GAHEY

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 345

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## Page 346

JN 62-544

advised that her brother and BETTY WADE had three

children, one daughter and two sons.

Bette ro 1, 20 te one ser 8453, 73 -

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON's oldest

She stated that WILSÖN's youngest

is not certain where he is presently living.

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON's former

mother and father-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. VERNON HOTTEN,

reside at 3095 Ruskin Road, Bartlett,

Tennessee, and

subscribes to telephone number 901-386-4628.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON married an

individual in San Marcos, Texas, whose first name was

JOANN and whose last name she did not know. She stated

that this individual resides at 113 Mill Street,

San Marcos,

512-392-4025•

GAHEY stated that JOANN indicated

to her in a telephone conversation on one occasion

that she planned to divorce BILL WILSON and during

the same conversation she asked MC GAHEY whether or

not WILsON had, in fact, been a prisoner of war.

MC GAHEY stated that she told JOANN that he had never

been a prisoner of war.

MC GAHEY stated that she, as the oldest child

in the family, has always felt an obligation to look out

Eor the interest of her brothers and sisters.

She stated

that she has been quite concerned for the past several

years with the behavior pattern of her brother, BILL

WILSON. She stated that on more than one occasion she

has discussed the possibility of admitting him to an

institution for alcoholics with her brother,

ALLYSON WILSON,

who Lives in Reform, Alabama.

She stated that both she

and ALLYSON WILSON feel that

their brother, BILL WILSON,

desperately needs some type of help.

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 346

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## Page 347

JN 62-544

CLH/bjw

The following investigation was conducted by

SA GWYNNE L. HUPFER at Columbus, Mississippi, on

August 19, 1978:

A physical observation of 401 5th Street South,

olumbus, Mississippi, r'evealed that this is the addres:

of the Candlewood Apartments

JAMES LANCASTER, 810 Holland Avenue, advised

that he is the owner of the Candlewood Apartments.

LANCASTER stated that he does not recall anyone by the

name BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRO, Or BILL WILSON, renting

an apartment from him.

LANCASTER advised, however,

that

he has had a great deal turnovers in these apartments

over the past several years and he could not possibly

recall

all his tenants by name. LANCASTER advised

that his daughter, RITA BROWNLEE, was the resident

manager of the Candlewood Apartments for him for several

years. He stated that she might recall this individual.

RITA BROWNLEE, 3504 Camilia Circle, advised that

she was the resident manager of Candlewood Apartments

during

portions of lyle and all of 191s and 19/6.

BROWNLEE

advised that she

does not recall anyone named BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., or BILL WILSON renting an apartment

from her.

She stated, however, that she located a payment

from a BIlL WILSON, dated July 16, 1975, for apartment 19

at the candlewood Apartments.

She advised that this is

the only record she could find of this individual and

stated that he must have paid his rent payments in cash.

DONALD BEARD, Columbus Police Department,

advised that their records indicate BURGESS A. WILSON

was the complainant and victim of a strong-arm robbery

on August 7, 1975.

BEARD advised that is the only record

they have of a BURGESS A. WILSON in their files.

BEARD stated that they have a record of a BILI

as being

again on August 13, 1975. BEARD advised that

Apartment 49, Candlewood Apartments'1 a review of

his records indicate that on both of these occasions another

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 347

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## Page 348

JN 62-544

2

tenant at the Candlewood Apartments had called the

police to complain of excessive noise at the apartment

Of BILL WILSON.

Both of these incidents were handled

by officers of their department with no arrests being

made and no charges being filed.

BARBARA HENSON, Dispatcher, Lowndes County

Sheriff's Office,

advised that their records are negative

concerning BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRO, OF BILL WILSON.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 348

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## Page 349

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION.

Date of transcription

8/21/78

Mr. WILLIAM DON GLADDEN, age 46, white male,

Route 3, Box 205-H-3 (Meadowlark Drive), Gulf Park Estates,

Ocean Springs, Mississippi (telephone number 875-3518), was

contacted at

the Seasons and Reasons Gift Shop located at

1446 Highway yU Last,

number 875-2531)•

information:

He is employed as the manager of the social

Security Administration Office in Gulfport, Mississippi

(telephone number 896-3221), but also is owner of the above

noted gift shop along with his wife, ALICE A. GLADDEN.

GLADDEN advised that he and his wife opened the gift shop

in Ocean Springs on July 3, 1978.

shop and identified himself as

On or about July 26, "Ball" WILSON.

a man came to the gift

He talked with

GLADDEN's wife stating

that he was getting ready to open a

watch repair business in the Edgewater Shopping Mall in

Biloxi, Mississippi, and wanted to use the GLADDEN's gift

shop as a pickup point for watches to be repaired.. Mrs.

GLADDEN discussed the matter with her husband and

gift shop.

According to GLADDEN, neither he nor his wife ha

ever met WILSON before but he was a triendly outgoin.

individual whonthey came to trust.

He was a very good

worker and always was the first one to open the store in

the morning.

ads for his watch repair business. WILSON had some of his

own jewelry and watch repair equipment but after moving into

GLADDEN's gift shop, spent several thousand dollars of his

GLADDEN advised that

effort was that he agreed to go in half with WILSON on an

$800 sign for the store.

GLADDEN again described WILSON as being a very

fast, good worker, who was tactful with customers and was

Interviewed on _

8/18/78

_acean Springs, Mississippirile# Jackson 62-544-8°

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT andLe

by -

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./ KWS/njb

Date dictated

8/21/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the fBI and is loamed to.

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 349

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## Page 350

JN 62-544

all signs were that BILL WILSON was going to

stay with the gift shop as a watch repairman on a permanent

basis.

After a few days, WILSON advised Mr. and Mrs.

GLADDEN that he had changed his mind about opening up

a watch and jewelry repair business in the Edgewater Mall

31lOX1, MISsisSippi•

GLADDEN advised that neither he nor his wife

ver visited the WILSON residence 'in Ocean Springs but

it was their understanding that WILSON resided in Apartment

No. 9 at the Twin Pines Motel on Highway 90 in Ocean Springs

for several days after first arriving in town. Later

WILSON advised the

GLADDENs that he had moved to a residence

located at Route 6, Box 387, Ocean Springs (telephone number

875-9542): GLADDEN advised

that this residence apparently

is located on the Vancleave Road north of the Ocean Springs

Hospital. WILSON told the GLADDENs that the house is owned

by an unidentified friend who was letting him live there

in exchange for keeping the house in good repair.

GLADDEN advised that WILSON is an excellent pilot.

GLADDEN and his son flew with WILSON in a rented plane and

according to GLADDEN, WILSON appeared to know everything

about flying the plane and could handle it well in

weather.

GLADDEN did not know the extent of WILSON's education

but described him as being an "extremely intelligent man"

WILSON would come and go in the shop every day and had numerous

advertising fliers printed up which he apparently hand

delivered in various businesses around the Ocean springs area.

GLADDEN advised that sometime after WILSON began

Poten bone yet, i no to Lot of pen Finking:

he watch repairs that were waiting for him and then he woul

Leave for the day. GLADDEN advised that one salesman (identit

inrecalled) who apparently had some contact with WILSON

stated that WILSON told him that he had a drinking problem

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 350

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## Page 351

JN 62-544

On August 17, 1978, at around 11:45 p.M.

WILSON telephoned ALICE GLADDEN at the GLADDEN residence

in Ocean Springs.

He asked to speak to WILLIAM D. GLADDEN

who at that time was asleep.

GLADDEN answered the phone and

WILSON told him that he had

to seehim and his wife imnediately

about a matter which would not wait until the morning. WILSON

refused to come to the GLADDEN residence and stated that

GLADDEN stated that he became worried

a.m. on August 18, 1978.

WILSON arrived at the gift shop at the appointed

time driving his old model blue Chevrolet with a white top

and unrecalled Louisiana license tags. He had been drinking

extremely red; however, he did not talk like an intoxicated

person.

He appeared very depressed according to GLADDEN.

the mystery man. "pened the conversation by saying, "I am

When questioned by GLADDEN as to what

he meant by this remark WILSON said,

"I am the man that

murdered Martin Luther King." GLADDEN advised that WILSON

then talked with him for the next hour and 15 minutes about

how he had grown up in Grenada, Mississippi, where his father

was a Baptist preacher.

WILSON described how his father's

church was open for local blacks to worship in and they were

treated like neighbors.

When the racial unrest was running

father welcomed them to the church only if they were not there

'for trouble"

of a heart attack

as a result of the racial unrest.

pulled the trise the st seated that the

"I am the one that

He stated that the KING killing was

a conspiracy and that he was the logical one to pull the

trigger. WILSON told the GLADDENs that he had been with the

Government (not further described) and had been involved in

he knew MARTIN LUTHER KING's father and brother and grew up

right next door to KING's cousin and knew the entire family.

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 351

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## Page 352

JN 62-544

(VADSIN did not furnish the name of KING's cousin to the

GLADDEN advised that WILSON told him that he had

daughter had driven the white Mustang to Memphis, Tennessee,

WILSON was supposed

WILSON told GLADDEN that JAMES EARL RAY was the

"fall guy". He said that RAY only saw him twice but WILSON

knew who RAY was.

RAY was supposed to have gotten away clean.

WILSON said that he was surprised that RAY has brought it

all back up again inasmuch as he (RAY) is probably due for

parole in about two years.

WILSON told GLADDEN, "You won't see me anymore

after tonight."

He wanted the GLADDENs to have his watch

repair equipment.

WILSON stated that he would only deal with the "Sheriff

of Memphis, Tennessee, whom WILSON use to fly with". WILSON

also said that he felt the Government (not further described)

wanted the KING killing to happen and he (WILSON) knew it

needed to be done and did not expect to get much time for it.

the KING killing since the

in since the meets a fee son lates

in their conversation WILSON did say he was sorry that he had

WILSON told the GLADDENs that the Sheriff of Memphis

had talked to him on the telephone and had agreed to meet

robably be allowed to repair watches or give instruction

in watch repair while in prison.

4

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 352

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## Page 353

JN 62-544

WILSON also told the GLADDENS that he fired the

shot that killed MARTIN LUTHER KING not from 50 yards but

from about 50 feet away and he saw the bullet hit.

in me mention shit of can he use need te

tell the GLADDENs the location from which he allegedly fired

the shot.

Loped at be point ring to eat eate or use he

could tell he did not approve of what he had done but that

he had better keep his nose out of it.

WILSON, who apparently had served in the U. S.

Air Force, indicated that he had worked in some type of

investigative work while in the military service.

WILSON kept bringing up the fact that he was

going to meet with the Sheriff of Memphis, Tennessee,

norning of August 18, 1978, and even offered to furnist

GLADDEN this individual's name and telephone number if he

wanted it for verification. GLADDEN declined.

WILSON said that he had gone through 10 years of

hell because he killed KING. He said that it had ruined

26 years of a good marriage and now his conscience was bothering

him more than ever in the last few years.

WILSON referred to a sketch of the KING murder

suspect which apparently had been recently shown on television

and told GLADDEN that the sketch was almost an exact likeness

5

NW 65994 Docid:32989768 Page 353

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## Page 354

JN 62-544

our able the sat he

GLADDEN advised that at the end of their

WILSON left the gift shop and drove east

GLADDEN feels sure that WILSON probably

drove to the Angular's Inn Tavern which is located a

short distance from the gift shop and was apparently

GLADDEN advised that shortly before noon on

August 18

the Holiday

the Holiday In ture ties e sherined by

The sheriff of

Memphis, Tennessee, had not shown up; however,

there were

individuals there believed by WILSON to be FBI Agents.

believed he had been betrayed and was now ready to "blow

anyone's head off who comes to my house except the father".

About three hours after this conversation WILSON walked into

GLADDEN's gift shop.

He was clean and neat and told GLADDEN

that he apparently

had been in touch with the FBI and that

the fBi was not going to do anything

• to him.

According

CO GLADDEN, WIION indicated that he had worked out some

"bargain" with the FBI and now WILSON wanted to live a normal

routine life. He asked GLADDEN if he could continue working

in the watch repair business. GLADDEN advised WILSON that

he and his wife were seriously contemplating selling the

business and they would make no decision about retaining

Outside the possibility that WILSON had a drinking

security Office he deals with a lot of people who have

He does not fit WILSON into any of the

i cal the ame anyan i son can that he by on en the

twice to the same woman.

MisSisSippI Coast only for about three months even though he

6

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 354

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## Page 355

JN 62-544

GLADDEN described WILSON as a white male, five

feet eight, medium build, 155 to 170 pounds, graying hair,

with a red ruddy complexion.

is apparently

partial to vodka and Coca-Cola.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 355

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## Page 356

JN 62-544

BWW/1rm

1

PARKER W. NEELY, 1814 Short Main Street, Columbus,

Mississippi, advised he did business until 1976 as the

Box 4-N Gun Shop.

ifle, which rifle was a Japanese military type with the

serial number obliterated

The rifle was a long barrel

model.

NEELY redid the stock and action. The gun was in

working order when he got it.

the gun was picked up or

December 9, 1975. NEELY advised all other records regarding

the gun were destroyed; however, he does recall the subject

as he sold the subject

a Colt Diamondback 38 revolver,

inch barrel, for which the subject still owes him.

stated he determined later the subiect was arrested somewhere

in west Texas and this revolver was confiscated. NEELY could

provide no other information regarding the subject or his

activities.

NEELY did recall the subject stated he obtained

the rifle from some individual in Tupelo, Mississippi, name

unrecalled.

62-544-88

SE-40:00

AUG % 3 1978

F3I-JACKISON

72,4/8

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 356

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## Page 357

FD-350 (Rev- 10-19-77)

(Mount Clipping in Space Below)

Evidence Distorted,

James

Barl Ray Says

"They, can surprise you with doc

NASHVILLE,f Tennere(AP.): T

James, Darl Ray says the House As

sassinations, Committee, aidedy by: sifor years, and thus give;a alse.im

reporters, is distorting evidence, in pression or the evidence, Ray

af wrote in his letter.

"I was in Missis

Last week, federal marshals. took

Ray: to. Washington to testify before

the,committee about:the killing. of

civil rights leader Dr. Martin Lu-

ther King Jra And.as he has for.

nearlyca decade, Ray,recanted his

1969 gulty plea,: saying the was.

duped by a mysterious: man named

Raow, ill-served by his former law

yer and coerced PIt

the the rigors of:

his confinement.

In a letter' written

Mountain " Penitentiary

the hearing, apparently they had

everything layed out:to, quotating]

Cong. Mandel Davis, 'nail: us to the *2

cross? My assesment of the hear-

ings are the same as Cong. Davis;

and it-seems that most.of the press..

did their: best to assists, the:

committēe."

Some questions and evidence pre-

sented during Ray's three days of

testimony in Washington concerned

his -whereabouts just : before the

King: was shot. on April 4, 1968, in

Memphis There were suggestions

that Ray

stalked

King through

Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee, *

The committee produced a laun-

dry ticket purportedly placing Ray

in Atlanta on April la day. Ray

says he, was driving through Missis

sipphe foward Memphis' to

meet

Raout?™

iner. their

_The committee's.investigation. of

King's death resumes this winter.

Ray. has recanted his guilty. plea to:

year paint to , : .90.

Flown by helicopter from. the Pe

tros prison on April 15, Ray said hel

iwas taken to a federal prison:near

Petersburg: Vale ai haste

he tuch a wild on antine

2c"T got into jan altercation with

pictures, etc.,.

checked into the prison under the

¿rame: Michael Brewer. I suppose?

the row' was supposed to effect my

rability to. testuy. There was note

much to it, 'my shirt was torn" öff

and intended wearing it to- the

hearing,

however, the FBI came

and confiscated it. en

(indispate pra gly and afate.)

Page 4A

The Clarion Ledger

Jackson,

MS

Date: 8/26/78

Edition: Home

Title: MURKIN

Character:

or

Classification: CIVIL RIGHT

Submitting Office: JACKSOL

02-544-90

SEARCHED.

SERIALIZED SEND HE

AUG 2 € 1978

FBI-JASKSON

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 357

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 358

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/23/78

Mrs. CHRISTINE (LEON) GUNTHARP was telephonically

contacted at Fulton, Mississippi, telephone number 862-9355.

Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that she is the sister of BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., and resides at Route 1, Box 36, Fulton,

Mississippi.

Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that her brother BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., is commonly known as "Bill"

Mrs. GUNTHARP

stated that she has another brother, ALLISON WILSON,

age 50,

who resides in Reform,

Alabama. Her sister LYDIA MC GAHEY

resides at 2008 East 8th Avenue North, Columbus, MiSSISSippI,

telephone number 327-1141.

Mrs. GUNTHARP stated that she has had extremely

limited contact with "Bill" during the last ll years since

her father's death.

Mrs. GUNTHARP related that her father

B. A. WILSON, SRodied in 1967.

was a Baptist minister in Grenada,

Mississippi, and

Mrs. GUNTHARP stated

s death that she, CHRISTINE,

B. A. WILSON's personal property to his wife LILLY who was

his second wife and stepmother to each of the children.

MIS•

GUNTHARP stated that her stepmother LILLY WILSON remained

alive until 1976 and during her life span from 1967 until 1976

she was extremely dependant upon others for assistance.

MrS. GUNTHARP

stated

that she and her sister LYDIA were the

only children to show any concern for LILLY WILSON's needs.

GUNTHARP stated that she therefore handled the disbursement

of the WILSON estate in accordance with the interest of

of the brothers and sisters.

She stated that this created

hard feelings with the brothers since they did not feel as

matter and, in fact, called the GUNTHARP residence on one

occasion several weeks ago stating that CHRISTINE had "killed"

her brother referring to ALLISON who resides in Reform,

Alabama. Mrs. GUNTHARP stated that she understood her brother

"Bill" to mean that her

handling of the estate was responsible

for her brother ALLISON's death.

Mrs. GUNTHARP stated" that

ALLISON is alive and healthy and this statement by "Bill" was

totally incorrect. Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that her deceased

Interviewed on

8/19/78

-a Tupelo, Mississippi

File #

Jackson 62-544 - 90

by

SA DONALD H. GREENE/njb

Date dictated

8/21/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 358

---

## Page 359

JN 62-544

father tried to get help for

occasions concerning

"Bì11'

prov drinker and tends to fabricate stories when under

Mrs. GUNTHARP stated that

"Bill"

attention.

untrue.

Mrs. GUNTHARP explained that "Bill" entered the

United States

Air Force by forging his father's signature

at age 14 or 15 and remained in the Air Force for almost

20 years.

She advised that he served one tour in England

Better She sus co that he had be vive ved i hat

She advised that he had been involved in insurance

the past.

Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that her brother has been

narrled five times and she has learned through family

conversations that her brother "Bill" told one of his

vives that he had been a prisoner of war in the past. Mrs.

Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that her brother had threatened

her husband LEON in the past over the will settlement and she

and her husband have very little to do with him in view

of his erratic behavior.

"Bill" living

in compaste bored chat cotton enough to ase nadseat1o

Air Force.

resides in

ANTHONY.

2

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 359

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## Page 360

JN 62-544

Mrs. GUNTHARP concluded by stating that she has

very little confidence in any statements made by her brother

in view of her past experience with him.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 360

---

## Page 361

sound

FD-263 (Rev. 7-15-75)

REPORTING OFFICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

OFFICE OF ORIGIN

MEMPHIS

DATE

SAN ANTONIO

8/30/78

INVESTIGATIVE PERIOD

8/18-23/78

TITLE OF CASE

REPORT MADE BY

JAMES EARI RAY, aka;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV

CHARACTER OF CASE

VICTIM

CR - CONSPIRACY

TYPED BY

mmk

REFERENCES:

Memphis teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/18/78;

San Antonio teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/18/78;

Dallas teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/19/78;

Jackson teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/19/78;

San Antonio teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/19/78;

San Antonio teletype to the Bureau, dated 8/21/78;

Bureau teletype, dated 8/22/78;

San Antonio teletype, dated 8/23/78;

Jackson teletype, dated 8/23/78; and

Jackson teletype, dated 8/24/78.

- RUC -

ADMINISTRATIVE

A review of San Antonio indices revealed that BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR. is a subject of San Antonio file 29-2620

ACCOMPLISHMENTS CLAIMED

→ NONE

ACQUIT-CASE HAS BEEN:

CONVIC. BIVERSION FUG.

FINES

SAVINGS

RECOVERIES

TALS

PENDING OVER ONE YEAR

YES

PENDING PROSECUTION

OVER SIX MONTHS

YES

SPECIAL AGENT

APPROVED

IN CHARGE

COPIES MADE:

4-Bureau (44-38861)

3-Memphis (44-1987 Sub M)

(L-USA, Memphis, Tennessee)

Jackson (62-544)

1-San Antonio (44-1242)

DO NOT WRITE IN SPACES BELOW

62 544

91

LANNED

SEP 6

1978

Dissemination Record of Attached Report

Agency

Request Recd.

Date fwd.."

How Fwd.

By

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 361

A

COVER PAGE

*BI/DOJ

---

## Page 362

It me

SA 44-1242

captioned "BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., BE&E, 00:

San Antonio."

WILSON allegedly defaulted on a

• $1,000.00 note at the Kyle

State Bank, Kyle, Texas, and in a security agreement and

financing statement filed with the Hayes County District

Clerk's Office, WILSON indicated that the $1,000.00 note was

obtained to purchase cattle.

By teletype, dated August 24, 1978, Jackson Division

requested San Antonio to re-interview WILSON regarding a dis-

crepancy in the registration number of the Bonanza Aircraft he

claimed he owned at the time of KING's death.

was not conducted based on telephonic instructions received

from ASAC, Memphis Division, on August 24, 1978.

=+292560155

B*

COVER PAGE

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 362

---

## Page 363

*FD-204 (Rev. 3-3-59)

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Copy to:

Report of:

Date:

Field Office File #:

'Title:

I-U. S. Attorney, Memphis, Tennessee

THOMAS E. MOODY, IV

8/30/78

44-1242

JAMES EARI RAY;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. - VICTIM

Oifice: San Antonio, Texas

Bureau File #: 44-38861

Character:

CIVIL RIGHTS - CONSPIRACY

Synopsis:

NCIC inquiry revealed BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., born

8/28/31, in Mississippi, Social Security Account Number (SSAN)

422-34-1275, wanted by New Braunfels, Texas, Police Department.

as Probation Violator as of 8/18/78. WILSON presently on pro

bation out of Comal County District Court, Texas, for theft over

$200.00 and under $10,000.00. WILSON previously treated at

McKenna Memorial Hospital, New Braunfels, Texas, and Veterans

Administration (VA) Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. No record

1a, to please ten

located for treatment of mental disorders.

Results of record

reviews of both hospitals, Comal County District Court Clerk's

Office, Comal County Probation Office, Comal County Sheriff's

Office, and interview of ex-wife set forth.

- RUC -

DETAILS:

AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

On August 18, 1978, inquiry of the National Crime

Information Center (NCIC) revealed that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.;

born August 28, 1931, in Mississippi, Social Security Account

Number (SSAN) 422-34-1275, Texas Drivers License Number 77911315,

was wanted by the New Braunfels, Texas, Police Department as a

Probation Violator, date of warrant April 18, 1978.

The following investigation was conducted by Special

Clerk DAVID A. WALL:

AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

1W 659g it elations nor conclusions of the FBX. It is the property of the FI and is loaned to your agency; it and its contents

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## Page 364

SA 44-1242

A review of the records, Identification Bureau, Bexar

County Jail, San Antonio, Texas, on August 18, 1978, indicated

that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., white male, born August 28, 1931,

height 5'1l", hair black, eyes

brown, was booked into the Bexar

County Jail on June 19, 1972 on Contempt of Court charges out of

State District Court 57 (case number F248-084) • WILSON served

twelve days and was released on June 30, 1972.

The following investigation was conducted by Special

Clerk CARMEN J. HINES:

AT SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

On August 21, 1978, a review of court records, Bexar

County 57th District Court, San Antonio, Texas, revealed WILSON

was incarcerated for Contempt of Court growing out of a civil

| "Allison-Kaufmann Company, a California corporation,

V. North Star Diamond Corporation (case number F248-084) of which

This civil suit involved a fraud

case and WILSON was incarcerated following his refusal to furnish

the court with an inventory of merchandise in his possession

belonging to Allison-Kaufmann Company. This incarceration did

not involve any action growing out of child support.

The following investigation was conducted by Special

Agent WAYNE SMITH:

• • AT SAN MARCOS, TEXAS

On August 19, 1978, JO ANN CHILDRESS, 113 Mill, San

Marcos, Texas, advised

that she met BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

also known as

Bill Wilson, at Sadler, Texas, in September, 1977,

and they were married in November of 1977.

They separated

February 15, 1978 and the divorce was finalized on April 26, 1978.

On August 12, 1978, she received a telephonic message from WILSON

indicating that he was in the state of Tennessee and was involved

in an automobile accident.

WILSON stated that as a result of

this accident both of his legs were amputated. CHILDRESS advised

that WILSON is a "very convincing liar and a con-man". He has

never mentioned the death of MARTIN LUTHER KING and has never dis

played any hatred or dislike for members of the black race.

2

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## Page 365

SA 44-1242

According to CHILDRESS, she believes that WILSON was in the

United States Army during 1968, and WILSON has stated that

he was

a Prisoner Of War (POW)

during the Vietnam conflict.

She is aware that WILSON visited the Veterans Administration

(VA) Hospital in San Antonio, Texas on several occasions, but

she possesses no knowledge of him suffering from any psychiatric

problems.

sons and one daughter, locations not known by CHILDRESS.

CHILDRESS advised that it is her personal opinion

that WILSON is sick and she is

not in a position to provide any

information regarding his whereabouts in 1968 other than the

fact that he did mention that he once resided in Memphis,

Tennessee.

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1

SA 44-1242

TEM: eya

The following investigation was conducted at

San Antonio, Texas, by SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV:

Veterans Administration (VA)

furnished an Authority to Release Medical Information

executed by BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., furnished the

following background and descriptive data:

Name

VA Claim Number

BURGESS A. WILSON

14592430

Social Security

Account Number

422-34-1275

Date of Birth

August 28, 1931

Place of Birth

Fulton, Mississippi

U. S. Air Force

Service Number

142 25 795

Dates of Service

May 2, 1947

-

February,

1960

Type of Discharge

Honorable

Address

2601 Westward Drive

Apartment 104

San Antonio,

Texas

(June, 1976)

Route 4, Box 620-D

Canyon Lake,

Texas

78130

(August 4, 1976)

Occupation

Jeweler

Relatives

STEPHEN WILSON (Son)

5627 Culebra

San Antonio, Texas

Telephone 433-0588

Further review of the record indicated that no

compensation was being received from the VA bY WILSON and

that he had received no treatment at that facility for

mental disorders. In June, 1976, his claim folder was

; located

in the Wichita VA Center.

4

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2

SA 44-1242

On June 27, 1976, WILSON was admitted as an

in-patient to the VA hospital in San Antonio for insect

bites.

Initial diagnosis indicated Cellulitis of the right

knee, Lymphangitis and Lymphadenitis; inflammation of lymph

glands and multiple pus nodules on all extremities and neck.

Additional diagnosis included chronic obstructive pulmonary

disease; mild cardio infarction and a questionable cerebral

vascular attack at age 30.

On June 29, 1976, WILSON went on pass from the

hospital to visit his son who had been involved in a motor-

cycle accident in Dallas, Texas. WILSON did not return to

the hospital.

On August 4, 1976, WILSON was treated as an out-

patient for lime burn

on his left foot. He was seen and

released. On August 6, 1976, he telephonically contacted

the hospital to report that his foot was healing properly.

On December 11, 1976, he was again treated as an

out-patient for a swollen left elbow. He returned on

December 14, 1976, for additional treatment. On December 21,

1976, WILSON failed to keep an appointment at the VA hospital

for additional treatment and has not been treated subsequent

to that time.

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1

SA 44-1242

TEM: eya

The following investigation was conducted at

New Braunfels; Texas, by SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV:

On August 22, 1978, WALTER FELLERS, Sheriff, Comal

County, advised that BURGESS WILSON, also known as BILL WILSON,

Texas Department of Public Safety Number 1808984, had been

incarcerated in the Comal County Jail on the following occasions:

Arrest Number

A 8491

Date

March 1, 1976

Charge

Theft Over $200 and under

$10,000

Address

401 5th Street

South Columbus,

Mississippi

Disposition

Pled guilty and sentenced

to 8 years in the Texas

Department of Corrections -

probated to 8 years

Arrest Number

Date

Charge

Address

Arrest Number

•Date

Charge

Address

Arrest Number

Date

Charge

Address

Disposition

8942

June 8, 1976

Violation of Probation

401 5th Street

South Columbus, Mississippi

9636

November 21, 1976

Violation of Probation

(Capias Number 7721)

Route 4, Box 6206

Canyon Lake, Texas

A 10576

July 13, 1977

•Violation of Probation

Route 4, Box 6206

Canyon Lake, Texas

On bond to District Court

6

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## Page 369

SA 44-1242

Sheriff FELLERS advised that a Deputy from his office

lepartea on August L2

indicated that he expects WILSON to be returned prior to

the end of the week.

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## Page 370

SA 44-1242

TEM: eya

The following investigation was conducted by

SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV at New Braunfels, Texas:

On August 22, 1978, HAZEL KUHN, Clerk, District

Clerk's Office, Comal County District Court, New Braunfels,

Texas, made available for review the records of the Comal

County District Court. She noted that on the day BURGESS

WILSON was scheduled to appear in Comal County District

hereinater, he was admitted to the McKenna Memorial

following this incident.

A review of the Comal County District Court

records revealed that on September 3, 1974, WILSON was

indicted by a Comal County Grand Jury for Theft Over

$200, a color television set being the property of DOROTHY E.

WIMBERLY, under Cause Number 7520, in the 22nd Judicial

District Court. An arrest warrant was served on WILSON

on september 20, 1974, in Baxter County, Arkansas

(Mountain Home) • WILSON waived extradition and restitution

was made. The charge was formally dismissed on March 30,

1976.

On February 7, 1975, an information was filed

in Comal County District Court charging WILSON with Theft

By Check. A capias was issued on February 7, 1975. WILSON,

also known as WILLIAM WILSON, Highway 5, Mountain Home,

Arkansas, was doing business as Ozark Jewelry and Watch

Repair, (501) 425-8636.

The charge was subsequently

dismissed on December 22, 1977.

On August 7, 1974, WILSON was indicted by the

Grand Jury in Comal County for Theft of Over $200 and

Under $10,000 from ALBERT J. CRAUSE, Apartment 18, 1786

Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas, under Cause Number 7712.

WILSON pled guilty to this charge on March 11, 1976, at

which time the following other charges were pending

against him:

8

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## Page 371

2

SA 44-1242

Cause Number 7520

Theft Over $200 -

To be dismissed upon

Restitution

Cause Number 7686

•Theft Under $200 -

To be dismissed upon

Restitution

Cause Number 21,797

Pending in the 18th

Judicial District Court,

Johnson County, Texas -

Criminal non-support case

Case Pending in Oktibbeh,

Mississippi - Fraud by

False Pretenses

WILSON's spouse at that time was listed as

PATRICIA WILSON, 103 Catherine Drive, Starkville, Mississippi.

on 8 years probation by the 22nd Judicial District Court,

Comal County, beginning March 25, 1976. He was to report

weekly to the Probation Officer and pay $2500 restitution

and $62.50 for court costs.

On June 8, 1976, the 22nd Judicial District Court

issued a warrant for WILSON's arrest for violation probation.

the influence of intoxicating liquors; his admission to

frequently consuming alcoholic beverages and his failure

and refusal to pay restitution.

On June 25, 1976, an order for continuing probation

was issued after his

serving

20 days in jail.

9

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## Page 372

3

SA 44-1242

On November 18, 1976, an order for arrest was

issued by 207th Judicial

District Court, Comal County, for

WILSON's arrest for violation of probation.

The capias

was served on November 20, 1976.

On November 25, 1976,

an order continuing probation was issued after WILSON

spent four days in jail.

On July 8, 1977, an order for WILSON's arrest

was issued by the 207th Judicial District Court. Capias

was served on July 9, 1977. Also on that date, an order

20, 2977.

for his arrest was issued by the 207th Judicial District

Court for violation of probation involving the Theft of

Over $200. The capias was served. on July 13, 1977.

On April 18, 1978, an order was issued for

WILSON's arrest by the 22nd Judicial District Court for

violation of probation. The capias was issued on April 18,

1978.

On April 22, 1974, BETTY LOU WILSON filed a

petition

for divorce in Comal County District Court seeking

to dissolve her marriage to BURGESS A. WILSON. The petition

listed a

son, MARK ANTHONY WILSON, born January 25, 1958, at

Memphis, Tennessee. In the petition BETTY LOU WILSON

listed her address as 1505 West Canyon Lake Drive, Startzville,

Texas, and BURGESS WILSON's address as 101-B Wonderland

Shopping Center, Timex Center, San Antonio, Texas.

The

petition indicated that they were married on February 25,

1967, and separated on March 28, 1974.

In a cross petition filed by BURGESS WILSON on

May 21, 1974, he indicated that they were originally married

on December 13, 1948, and divorced on August 28, 1966, in

ana divorced on.

Memphis, Tennessee•

They were remarried on February 28, 1967,

and

separated on March 28, 1974.

The cross petition indicated that the son, MARK

ANTHONY WILSON, was residing with WILSON's daughter, DEBORAH

ANN JONES. A degree of divorce was entered on June

• 27, 1974,

granting

custody of MARK ANTHONY WILSON tO BETTY LOU WILSON

and requiring BURGESS A. WILSON to pay child support. A

motion for Contempt was filed on August 19, 1974, as WILSON

was in arrears in child

support payments.

The court has been

unable, until this time, to locate WILSON for the purpose of

serving the necessary papers.

10

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## Page 373

SA 44-1242

TEM: eya

The following investigation was conducted by

SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV at New Braunfels, Texas:

On August 22, 1978, FRANK ALLEN, Probation Officer,

Comal County, New Braunfels, Texas, advised that BURGESS

WILSON was referred to his office for pre-sentence investigation

on March 1l, 1976. As a result of his pre-sentence

investigation, he reported that the chances of successful

probation by wILSON would be poor.

ALIEN stated that he'did not believe WILSON to be

capable of violence and noted that WILSON experiences

illusions of grandeur and is capable of telling "wild

stories" when drinking.

A review of the records of the Comal County

Probation Office regarding

information:

WILSON revealed the following

*

Name

Date of Birth

Race

Sex

Height

Weight

Eyes

FBI Number

Texas Department of

Public Safety Number

Social Security Account

Number

Mississippi Driver's

License Number

Address

Spouse

Length of Marriage

Number of Marriages

Number of Dependents

BURGESS WILSON

August 28, 1931

White

Male

5'11"

165 pounds

Brown

879 421 E

1,80-898-4

422-34-1275

422-34-1275

5627 Culebra, Number 1401

San Antonio, Texas 7822€

PATRICIA ELSIA

3 months

4

11 •

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SA 44-1242

References

Relatives

_NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 374

KENNETH L. KING

Pastor, First Baptist

Church of Canyon Lake,

Star Route #2

Box 94,

New Braunfels, Texas 78130

(512) 964-3457

LAWRENCE F. HUGHEY

Route 1

Box 1955

Winona, Texas

(In letter of recommendation,

HUGHEY indicated that he

had never known WILSON to

be hostile, although he

did drink too much)

Sister:

Mrs. LYDIA MCGAHEY

÷*

2002 East 8th Avenue

North Columbus,

Mississippi

(WILSON indicated that this

sister is the relative who

understands him best)

Sister: Mrs. CHRISTINE GUNTHORP

Route 1

Fulton, Mississippi

One Brother (not further

identified)

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## Page 375

3

SA 44-1242

Previous Employments

Prior Marriages

Crittenden Drywall

8310-A Speedway

San Antonio, Texas

Telephone 341-2407

(5/76)

Austin Power,

Incorporated

Buda, Texas

Telephone 295-7351 (12/77

U. S. Air Force (May, 1947 -

February, 1960)

Knights Life Insurance

Memphis, Tennessee

(July, 1963 - December, 1965)

Prudential Insurance Company

Memphis, Tennessee

(February, 1960 - July, 1963)

U. S. Air Force Reserve

Richards - Gebaur Air

Force Base, Missouri -

Panel Engineer (January, 1966 -

January, 1967)

Self-employed Jewelry and

Watch Repairs,

Starkville, Mississippi

(January, 1967 - January,

1976)

BETTY LOU (HOOTEN) WILSON,

December 13, 1948 - 1966;

1966-1973

AVIS LEA (PRUETT) WILSON,

December 31, 1974 - June 7, 1975

13

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## Page 376

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SA 44-1242

Prior Arrests

1963 - LOS Angeles, California -

Bad Check - Restitution Made

-

Dismissed

1973 - San Antonio, Texas -

Contempt of Court - Dismissed

1972 - San Antonio, Texas -

Post-dated check - Made Good

1966 - Memphis, Tennessee -

forgery - Dismissed

February, 1975, Mountain Home,

Arkansas - Public Drunk -

Fined

January, 1976, Hurst, Texas -

Child support - pending

1974 - Fulton, Mississippi

DWI - Fined

On March 25, 1976, under Cause Number 7712, WILSON

was placed on 8 years probation by the 22nd Judicial

District

Court,

Comal County, for Theft Over $200 and Under $10,000.

The charge resulted

from WILSON's taking a check for $2500

from a supposed business partner to Dallas, Texas, for the

purpose of purchasing stock for their jewelry store. WILSON

did not return. A condition of the probation was the restitution

of $2500 and payment of court costs in the amount of $62.50.

On June 8, 1976, WILSON reported to the Probation

Office while under the influence of alcohol.

WILSON advised

that he had been working for the U. S. Secret Service in

seguin, Texas, on a counterfeiting ring and that members of

this ring were attempting to kill him.

He admitted to being

under the influence of alcohol and asked that his probation

be revoked. WILSON was incarcerated in the Comal County Jail.

14

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## Page 377

5

SA

44-1242

Subsequent inquiry by ALLEN with the U.S. Secret

Service determined that WILSON had furnished information of

no value to that agency and that there was no counterfeiting

ring. After approximately three days of incarceration WILSON

advised ALLEN that the reason he had requested his probation

be revoked was because he was seeking protection.

He indicated

that he wanted his probation continued. By report dated

to the Probation Office, WILSON indicated

that he was residing at 113 Mill Street, San Marcos, Texas,

78666, telephone number 392-2776. He listed his employment

as self-employed - construction.

The report indicated that

he was living with his wife, JO ANN WILSON.

. 15

-NW-65994-Docld:32989768_Page_37Z

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## Page 378

1

SA 44-1242

TEM: eya

The following investigation was conducted at

New Braunfels, Texas, by SA THOMAS E. MOODY, IV:

On August 22, 1978, BARBARA HARTIGAN, Records,

Mckenna Memorial Hospital, New Braunfels, Texas, after

having been furnished an Authority to Release Medical

Information, executed by BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR, furnished

the following background and descriptive data:

Name

Date of Birth

Address

BURGESS WILSON

August 28, 1931

Box 1444

Startzville, Texas

Relatives

STEPHEN WILSON (son)

5427 Little Creek

San Antonio, Texas 78242

Telephone 623-4939,

U. S. Air Force

Occupation

Telephone Number

Retired

899-2764

Medical records indicate that on May 22, 1974,

• at 10:35 p.M., WILSON arrived at the Emergency Room, Mckenn

Memorial Hospital by ambulance experiencing severe chest pains

and numbness of his right arm. Examination indicated an

abnormal electro-cardiogram.

WILSON was admitted at 12:05 a.M.,

May 23, 1974. He was treated for coronary occlusion.

following day the pain disappeared and the electro-cardiogram

was normal.

His past medical history listed alcoholism and

heart attack, the last "heart attack" being in 1963 in Memphis,

Tennessee.

On May 24, 1974, WILSON left the hospital via taxi

against medical advice at

3:20 p.m.

• It was noted in the medical records that WILSON has

upper dentures.

On May 28, 1974, WILSON again appeared at the McKenna

Memorial Hospital Emergency Room at 8:45 a.m., indicating that

he had received a rattlesnake bite at approximately 7:30 a.m.,

16

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## Page 379

2

SA 44-1242

while pulling weeds at his residence near Canyon Lake.

He was admitted to the hospital at 9:45 a.m., with the

initial diagnosis being "rattlesnake bite, possible;

toxic hepatic dysfunction probably secondary to ethanol

intake."

Examination of the wound revealed a slightly

raised, scratched area on the left wrist, however, no

fang marks were located. WILSON was determined to be

allergic to anti-venom.

Suction was applied to the wound

area, however, no venom was located.

His medical history indicated that he supposedly

has carcinoma of the prostate which was diagnosed at the

University of Tennessee about six months prior to May 30,

1974. Patient admitted to slightly heavy use of alcohol.

WILSON was discharged at 9:10 a.m., on May 30,

1974•

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 379

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## Page 380

SA 44-1242

The following investigation was conducted by

SA MANUEL, MARQUEZ, JR.:

AT BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS

On August 23, 1978, a search with Brownsville, Texas,

Police Department records, Cameron County Sheriff's Office

records, and Cameron County Jail records, failed to reflect

any record identifiable with BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

18*

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## Page 381

FD-302 (REV. 11837-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

8/25/78

Date of transcription.

ather NOEL FANNON, Pastor,

Church, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was contacted at the

entrance of the Holiday Inn, U. S. Highway 90, Gulfport.

Mississippi, approximately 6:50 p.m. WILSON was advised

of the identity of SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES and he was asked

if he were BURGESS AUDIE WILSON and he acknowledged that

he was WILSON and further stated that he was a junior.

WILSON was advised that Sheriff GENE BARKSDALE

of Memphis, Tennessee, was not at the motel to meet him;

however,

FBI Agents were there and desired to talk with

him, particularly about his daughter's supposedly having

driven a white Mustang from Kansas City, Missouri, to

Memphis, Tennessee. He stated he had no information to

furnish

the FBI.

WILSON inquired as to whether or not he was under

arrest and he was advised that he was not under arrest.

WILSON

commented he was not going to give anyone any trouble.

He was

asked if he had any weapons on him and he stated he

did not and that

SA GRAVES could search him if he so desired.

WILSON was then "patted down"

and no weapons were felt on

his body.

WILSON commented that he and Father FANNON had been

to the motel at 9:30 a.m. on August 18, 1918, and again at

6:30 p.m. on August 18, 1978, to see Sheriff BARKSDALE and

the Sheriff had lied to them.

WILSON then asked Father FANNON if he would drive

him back to the place he had been picked up and Father FANNON

agreed to do so.

WILSON was again advised that FBI Agents were at the

motel and were still willing to talk with him and he reiterated

as he departed,

cn it thin the pet had are he is cater

without any explanation.

Interviewed on,

8/18/78

Gulfport, Mississippi

_File # Jackson 62-544-92

by.

SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES

/blc

__ Date dictated,

8/24/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the properly of the FBl and is loaned to your agency;

it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 381

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## Page 382

JN 62-544

WILSON and Father FANNON thereafter left the area

of the Holiday Inn in Father FANNON's 1976 Plymouth bearing

Jackson County, Mississippi, license JAH 637, and proceeded

east on U. S. Highway 90.

2

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## Page 383

FD-302 (REV. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription.

8/23/78

HOIDER arrived at the Holiday Im, Gulfport, Mississippi,.

of the Holiday Inn.

SSRA BENJAMIN E. GRAVES

veillance of WILSON, who was traveling with Father NOEL

a Catholic priest, in a 1970 green Plymouth four-door

FANNON bearing Jackson County, Mississippi, license JAH 637-

SAs BULLARD and HOLDER followed FANNON's vehicle to

Ocean Springs

at which time WILSON was placed

arrest as a state probation violator from Texas.

Interviewed on

by=

8/18/78

SA GEORGE L. HOLDERN

SA LOUIS S. BULLARD 2>

) Gulfport, Mississipp1

File # Jackson 62-544-93

LSB/blc

_ Date dictated_

8/23/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the properly of the FBl and is loaned to your agency:

it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 383

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## Page 384

FD-302 (REV. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription_

8/23/78

netted a physical be, quite cheste

Approximately 6:25 p.m., SA EDGAR L. O'NEILL, JR.

JR. and Father NOEL FANNON.

tive data, it was determined that these two men were not

then present in the dining room of the Holiday Inn.

A few minutes later, SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES was

observed to be talking with a man fitting the physical

a few minutes

individual

fitting the physical description of BURGESS AUDIE

WILSON, JR.

SA GRAVES thereafter advised SA O'NEILL that he had

JR. and that WILSON and

of this vehicle, which was traveling in an easterly direction

toward Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

SA O'NEILL maintained this vehicle under continuous

observation until such vehicle arrived in cean springs,

Mississippi, when it was stopped by units of the Ocean Springs

Police Department and WILSON was arrested by officers of the

Ocean Springs Police Department for state probation violation,

such warrant being outstanding from the State of Texas.

Interviewed on.

8/18/78

Gulfport, Mississippi

Jackson 62-544-94

SA EDGAR L. O'NEILL, JR.

_ Date dictated.

8/23/78

is document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBl and is loaned to your agenc

and its contents are not to be distributed oulside your agenc

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 384

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## Page 385

FD-302 (REV1 1-27-70)

• FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription.

8/24/78

Approximately 6:45 p.m., SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES

observed a green Plymouth, bearing a Jackson County

stop in front of the Holiday

Mate made was driving the ven eue pote, thie mal.

Inn located

was sitting on the passenger side of the vehicle.

individual on the passenger side got out of the vehicle

and it was observed that he was wearing a blue shirt and

checked

trousers and he was approximately 45 years of age,

SLeet 10 inches in height, and weighed about 150 pounds.

This individual entered the lobby of the motel. The

driver of the vehicle parked the vehicle on the west enc

of the motel and walked to the front door of the motel.

SA GRAVES asked the driver of the vehicle if he

were Father (NOEL) FANNON and he acknowledged that he was.

SA GRAVES identified himself to Father FANNON and advised

him that GENE BARKSDALE, Sheriff of Shelby County, Memphis,

was not going to meet BURGESS WILSON.

He was

advised that Agents of the FBI were in the motel and he was

requested to tell WILSON that the Sheriff was not going to

the FBI Agents were at the motel anc

lesired to talk with him if he WILSON) would agree to talk

with the Agents.

Father FANNON stated he would first like

to talk with WILSON because Sheriff BARKSDALE had lied about

his appearance in Gulfport.

Father FANNON thereafter entered the motel and talked

with WILSON in the lobby.

Interviewed on.

8/18/78

_ Gulfport, Mississippi

B7:

_Filo # Jackson 62-544-95

by_

SA BENJAMIN E. GRAVES

/blc

_Date dictated_

8/24/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to your agency;

il and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 385

---

## Page 386

FD-263 (Rev, 7-15-75)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

REPORTING OFFICS

JACKSON

OFFICE OF ORIGIN

MEMPHIS

TITLE OF CASE

JAMES EARI RAY, aka;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

VICTIM

DATE

9/12/78

INVESTIGATIVE PERIOD

8/18/78 - 8/23/78

REPORT MADE BE

SA WILLIAM E. BOOTH, IRe

CHARACTER OF CASE

CR - CONSPIRACY (B)

sin.

TYPED BY

Irm

REFERENCE:

Jackson airtel to Bureau, dated 8/21/78.

-

ADMINISTRATIVE:

this in esthe interest no evil done le generated

ACCOMPLISHMENTS CLAIMED

CONVIC. BINEHSON/FUG.

FINES

SAVINGS

APPROVED

COPIES MADE:

7,4B

SPECIAL AGENT

IN CHARGE

4

Bureau (44-38861)

3 - Memphis

(44-1987

Sub M)

(1 ~ USA, Memphis, Tenn.)

Jackson (62-544)

Dissemination Record of Attached Report

XXNONE

_ACQUIT- CASE HAS BEEN:

RECOVERIES

TALS

PENDING OVER ONE YEAR DYES IXINO

ENDING PROSECUTIO

VER SIX MONTH

YES LENO

DO NOT WRITE IN SPACES BELOW

. 2

-+4

196

Searched.

Serialized.

Indexed

Filed_

KH

Book Is

Waite

Agency

Request Recd.

Date Fwd.

How Fwd.

By

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 386

A%

COVER PAGE

+15-18-83188-1

aPO

---

## Page 387

FD-204 (Rev. 3-3-59)

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Copy to: 1 - UNITED STATES ATTORNEY, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

Report of: SA WILLIAM E. BOOTH,. JR.

September 12, 1978

Field Offiee File #: Jackson 62-544

Title:

JAMES EARL RAY;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

VICTIM

Office: JACKSON

Bureau File #:

44-38861

Character: CIVIL RIGHTS - CONSPIRACY

Synopsis: BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., claims that he is "man that murdered

enclosed interviews). WILSON arrested 8/18/78, by Ocean Springs,

MISSiSSIppI, Police Department on probation violation from New

Texas, PD and remanded to custody of Texas authorities

on 8/23/78• WILSON variously described by relatives anc

associates as a quiet man, intelligent and coherent, while

also at the same time, a

'problem drinker" who, while under the

influence of alcohol, loses contact with truth

and reality.

- RUÇ -

DELALLS:

This document contains neither secommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to your agency; it and its contents

are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 387

U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1970 0 - 406-840

---

## Page 388

11-802 fRey. Ti-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

MI. WILLIAM DON GLADDEN, age 46, white male,

Route 3, Box 205-J1-3 (Meadowlark Drive), Gulf Part Estates,

ocean Springs, Mississippi (telephone number 875-3518), Was

contacted at the Seasons and Reasons Gift Shop located

at

246 Highway

90 Bast,

ucean springs

Mississippi (telephone

number 875-2551). Mr. GLADDEN furnished the following

information:

He is employed as

security Administration Office in Guliport, Mississipp:

(telephone number 896-3221), but also is owner of the above

noted gitt shop along wich his wife, ALICE A. GLADDEN.

GLADDEN advised that he and. his wife opened the gift shop

in Ocean Springs on July 3, 1978.

shop and identified himself

He calked with

GLADDEN's wife stating that he was getting ready to open a

waich repair business in the edgewater Shopping Mall in

BILOKES MISSISSIPDI

and wanted to use the GLADDEN's gift

GLADDEN discussed the matter with her husband and

he and

gift shop.

According to GLADDEN, neither he nor his wite had

ever met WilsoN berose but he was a friendly outgoing

individual whanthey came to srust.

worker and always was the first one to open the store in

the morning, WILsON paid his own money for a lot of tadio

ads

for his watch repair business. WILSON had some of his

own jewelry and watch repair equipment but after moving into

GLADDENE

s gift shop, spent several thousand dollars of his

own money for additional equipment,

GLADDEN advised that

the only investment he (GLADDEN) had in the watch repair

effort was that he agreed to go in hale with WILSON on an

$800 sign for the store.

GLADDEN again described WILSON as being a very

fast, good worker, who was tactful with customers and was

Interviewed on ..

8/18/78

_Ocean Springs, Mississippirilal Jackson 62-544

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT and

by -

SA K. P. WIICE-SPUNNER, JR./KWS/njb

Date dictated

8/21/78

2

This dement contains weither reconmendations not conclusions of the fBl. I is the properly of the Il und is lowned bos

NW 85994"Dodd:32989768Page 3881o be distributed outside your agency.

---

## Page 389

JN 62-544

always trying io "drum up new business"

According

tO GLADDEN

all signs were that BILL WILSON was going to

basis.

After a few days, WILSON advised Mi. and Mrs.

GLADDEN that he had changed his mind about opening up

a watch and jewelry repair business in the Edgewater Mall,

Bilori, Mississippi.

GLADDEN advised that neither he nor his wife

ever visited the WILSON residence in Ocean Springs but

it was their understanding that WILSON resided in Apartment

No. 9 at the Twin Pines Motel on Highway 90 in Ocean Springs

for several days after first arriving in town.

WILSON advised

Later

the GLADDENs that he had moved to a residence

Located at louce bs Box 381, Ocean Springs (telephone number

875• 9542) 0

GLADDEN advised

advised®

that this residence apparently

is located

on the Vancleave Road north of the Ocean Springs

Hospital®

MLr.SON told the GLADDENs that the house is owned

by an unidentitied friend who was letting him live there

in exchange for keeping the house in good repair.

GLADDEN advised that WILSON is an excellent pilot.

GLADDEN and his son flew with WILSON in a rented plane and

according to GLADDEN, WILSON appeared to know everything

about flying the plane and could handle it well in rough

weather.

but described him as being an "

WILSON would come and go in the shop every day and had numerous

a sinn the

advertising Iliers princed up which he apparently hand

delivered in various businesses around the Ocean Springs area.

GLADDEN advised that sometime after WILSON began

working at his watch repair business in Ocean Springs, he

became aware that WILSON bad a drinking.

problem, however, did not affect WILSoN, Problem.

The drinking

s work because he

would come into the shop early every morning and do all of

he watch repairs that were waiting tor him and then he woulo

-eave for the day. GLADDiN advisec

that one salesman (identity

unrecalled) who apparently had some contact with WILSON

stated that NILSON told him that he had a drinking problem

but was trying to work hard at the watch repair business in

order to defeat this problem.

3

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 389

---

## Page 390

JN 62-544

on August 1/s 1918, at around 11:5 Pen

WILSON telephoned ALICE GLADDEN at the GLADDEN residence

in Ocean Springs.

He asked to speak to WILLIAM D. GLADDEN

who at that time was asleep. GLADDEN answered the phone anc

wilson told hin that he had to seern and his wife immediately

about a matter which would not wait until the morning.

WILSON

refused to come to the GLADDEN residence and stated that

they should meet at the gift shop to discuss a matter of

* GLADDEN stated that he became worried

at WILSON*s insistence so besides his wife: he took his to

year old son along and met WiLson at the gift shop at 12:15

allo on August 18, 1978.

WILSON arrived at the gift shop at the appointed

time driving his old model biue Chevrolet with a white top

and unrecalled Louisiana License tags. He had been drinking

extremely red; howevei, he did not talk like an intoxicated

person

He appeared very depressed according to GLADDEN.

the mystery man, "opened the conversacion by sayings "I an

he meant by this

remark WILSON

When questioned DyI am the man that

GLADDEN as to what

murdered Martin Luther Ring." GLADDEN advised that WILSON

chen talked with him for the next hour and 15 minutes about

how he had grown up in Grenada, Mississippi, where his father

was a Baptist preacher. WILSON described how his father's

church was open for local blacks to worship in and they were

treated Like neighbors.

When the racial unrest was running

rampant in the State of Mississippi in 1967 some "northern

blacks came to the church escorted by FBI Agents.

WILSON"s

Lather welcomed them to the church only if they were not there

"For trouble"

However, according to wilson, they did come

tor trouble and his father subsequently died

of a heart attack

as a result of the racial

unrest.

WILSON then stated again that, "I am the one that

pulled the trigger.

He stated that the KING Killing was

a conspiracy and that he was the logical one to pull the

trigger.

WInsON told the GLADDENs that he had been with the

Government (not further described) and had been involved in

undeclared wars (not further described).

WILSON also said that

he knew MARTIN LUTHER KING's father and brother and grew up

right next door to KING's cousin and knew the entire family.

4

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 390

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## Page 391

tunneces

JN 62-544

(WILSON did not furnish the name of KING's cousin to the

GLADDENS .)

GLADDEN advised that WILSON told him that he had

purchased a white Mustang for his daughter and that it was

similar to a vehicle which GLADDEN had purchased lor his

WILSON told GLADDEN that his

daughter had driver the white Mustang to Nemphis, Tennessee,

just prior to the KING assassinacion. RILSON was supposed

to be in Kansas City, Missouri, at the time of the assassina

tion and had alibis to prove it when actually he too was in

Memphis.

WILSON told GLADDEN that JAMES EARL RAY was the

"Fall guy"

He said that has only saw him twice but WiLsON

to GIA REN

Knew who RAY was.

RAY was supposed to have gotten away clean.

WILSON said that he was surprised that RAY has brought it

all back up again inasmuch as he (RAY) is probably due for

parole in about two years.

WILSON tOld GLADDEN, "You won't see me anymore

after tonight." He wanted the GLADDENs to have his watch

repair equipment. WILsON again insisted to the GLADDENS

that the KING assassination was a "group conspiracy"

WIlsoN stated that he would only deal with the

"Sheriff

of Memphis, Tennessee, whom WILSON used to fly with"

• WILSON

also said that he felt the Government (not further described)

wanted the KING kiLling to happen and he (WILSON) knew it

needed to be done and did not expect to get much time for It.

the KING killing since the

• Later

in their conversation WILSON did say he was sorry that he had

pulled the trigger.

WILSON told the GLADDENs that the Sheriff of Memphis

had talked to him on the telephone and had agreed to meet

a television set in his

cell and would

probably be ablowed to repair watches or give instruction

in watch repalr while in prison.

5

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 391

---

## Page 392

JN 62-544

5

WILSON also told the GLADDENs that he fired the

shot that killed MARIIN LUTHER KING not from 50 yards but

about 50 feet away and he saw the bullet hit. ILSON

said that,

"I shot the shit out of him and saw it fly.

WILSON never mentioned the type of gun he used nor. did he

tell the GLADDENs the location from which he allegedly fired

the shot.

could tell he did not approve of whac he had done but that

he had better keep his nose out of it.

WILSON, who apparently had served in the U.S.

Air Force,

indicated that he had worked in some type of

investigative work while in the military service.

going to meet with the sherift or hemphis, Tennessee

the

norning or August 18, 1978, and even offered to furnish

GLADDEN this individual's name and telephone number it he

wanted it for verification. GLADDEN declined.

WILSON said that he had gone through 10 years of

hell because he killed KiNG.

He said that it had ruined

26 years of a good marriage and now his conscience was bothering

him more than ever in the last few years.

WILSON seferred to a sketch of the KING murder

suspect which apparently had been recently shown on television

and told GLADDEN that the sketch was almost an exact likeness

of him (WILSON) .

WILSON said that he has a sister in Fulton,

Mississippi, Who telephoned him in Ocean Springs after the

sketch was

shown on television saying that the sketch looked

exactly Like him.

to WILSON he called his sister

and other members of his family to let them know he was

turning himself in.

6

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 392

---

## Page 393

JN 62-544

6

GLADDEN advised that at the end of their

conversation, WIlSON left the gift shop and drove east

0n Highway 90% GLADDEN feels sure that WILSON probably

drove to the Angular*s Inn Tavern which is located a

short distance from the gift shop

and was apparently

frequented by WILSON.

GLADDEN advised that shortly before noon on

the Holiday

Im in Gulfport, Mississippi, accompanied by.

"the father" (not further identified).

The sheriff of

Memphis, lennessee, had not shown up:

however, there were

individuals there believed by WILSON to be FBI Agents. He

believed he had been betrayed and was now ready to "blow

anyone's head off who comes to my house except the father".

About three hours after this conversation WILSON walked into

He was clean and neat and told GLADDEN

that he apparently

had been in touch with the FBI and that

the fBI was not going to do anything

to him.

According

to GladDeNs waloon indicated that he had worked out some

"bargain"

with the FBI

and now WILSON wanted to live a normal

routine life.

He asked GLADDEN if he could continue working

in the watch repair business.

GLADDEN advised WILSON thai

he and his wife were seriously contemplating selling the

business and they would make no decision about retaining

Outside the possibility that WILSON had a drinking

problem, GLADDEN observed nothing unusual about the person

and did not consider him to be

"the typical psychopath"

GLADDEN stated that in his job as manager of the Social

Security Office he deals with a lot of people who have

He does not fit WILSON into any of the

categorles of mental imparities that he has observed.

recalled that he has heard a lot about WILSON®

but nothing about his activities within the past i0 yearse

recalled WILSON saying he had been married five times,

twice to the same woman.

WILSON said that he had been on the

Mississippi Coast only for about three months even though he

grew up in che state of Mississippi:

7

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 393

---

## Page 394

JN 62-544

GLADDEN described WILSON as a white male, five

• •

8

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 394

---

## Page 395

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription -

8-21-78

LUKE JOSEPH BRODERICK, 1204 Hammer Smith Lane,

Jean Springs,

Mississippi, telephone number 875-1404,

was advised of the identity of the interviewing Agent

and the nature of the interview.

BRODERICK stated

that he is the manager of the Angle Inn Restaurant

and Lounge, Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

BRODERICK, a white male,

stated that he

was born February 7, 1940, and has completed three

years of college.

BRODERICK stated that he is acquainted with

BILL WILSON, who has been coming to the Angle Inn

for approximately two months as a customer. BRODERICK

stated that late on the night of August 16, 1978,

he, BRODERICK, Came to the Angle Inn and WILSON was

sitting at the bar and had been drinking Draft Beer

and was half drunk. BRODERICK stated he started

calking to WILSON and WILSON said that he, WILSON.

knew more about the MARTIN LUTHER KING assassination

than people thought. WILSON started telling

BRODERICK about how someone else had shot KING other

than EARL RAY. WILSON was describing the other

assassin in the third person. BRODERICK stated that

arter WILSON talked for a few minutes, he, BRODERICK,

realized that WILSON was actually talking about himself

• shooting KING.

When he questioned WILSON on this,

WILSON stated

"I definitely shot him. I was 50 feet

away.

I blew that nigger shit away"

• WILSON stated

that he had flown to Memphis, Tennessee, in a private

plane and he stated that he had shot KING from approxi-

mately 50 feet away while standing on the ground.

VILSON told BRODERICK there were more people involve

than himself and that firecrackers and other shot.

were going off at the time he shot KING. He stated

that RAY was a scapegoat in this conspiracy.

WILSON stated that he was turning himself

in to an old friend of his, GENE (last name unknown),

who is the Sheriff of Shelby County. WILSON told

Interviewed on

8-19-78

at Ocean Springs, Mississippfile #

Jackson 62-544

by

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/kbn

Dare dictated.

8-21-78

9

This ascent cond is oither a med at dis no conclusion out fly. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989760 Page 395

---

## Page 396

IN 62-544

BRODERICK that he was scheduled to turn himself in at 9:30 a.M.,

at the Holiday Inn in Biloxi, Mississippi.

on August 18 WILSoN was telling BRODERICk the above information,

At the time

WILSON had tears in his eyes and said he had been living with

this on his conscience for ten years and could not stand it

anymore.

Also listening in to a portion of the above

conversation was part-time bartender, DOROTHY WOODSIDE.

BRODERICK stated that he asked WILSON during the

conversation on the night of August 16, 1978, if he was

RAOUL and WILSON did not either deny or confirm this

statement.

BRODERICK stated that WILSON had dated a female,

RITA HERRINGTON, and that RITA HERRINGTON'S SOn, HOWARD

HERRINGTON, went to New Orleans with WILSON at one time.

BRODERICK stated that WILSON came into the Angle

inn on the morning of August 18, 1918, and stated that he

vas turning himself in to the Sheriff of Shelby County

at 6:30 Pomo, on that day at the Holiday Inn in Gulfports

Mississippi.

wILsoN used the pay telephone in the Angle

Inn to call the Sheriff of Shelby County and he wrote the

number of the sheriff on a Yellow Cab Company card on the

wall by the pay telephone.

BRODERICK made available this

Yellow Cab Company sign to the interviewing Agent.

Written on this sign was the telephone number 901:

528-3600.

WILSON stated that he could not turn himself in

on the morning of August 10, 1918, because the sheriti

could not be

at the motel because of the police strike

now going on in Memphis, Tennessee.

10

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 396

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## Page 397

atten at

FD- 302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription- August 21, 1978

DOROTHY RUTH WOODSIDE, 203 Morris Noble Road,

Ocean Springs, Mississippl, telephone number 8/5-4/21,

waS

advised of the identity of

the interviewing Agent and

the

nature of the interview.

WOODSIDE stated that she is a part-

time bartender at the Angle Inn Restaurant and Lounge located

on Highway 90 in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. She stated

she works full time as an accountant at Ingalls Shipbuilding

WOODSIDE stated that she does know BILL WILSON, and

she has talked to him numerous times at the Angle Inn.

She

stated that she dated WILSON one time and has seen him once

or twice at his apartment.

WOODSIDE stated that at approximately 1:00 AM on

August 18, 1978, WILSON came to the Angle Inn.

WILSON talked

to LUKE BRODERICK, the owner of the Angle Inn. While WILSON

was. conversing with BRODERICK, WOODSIDE joined the conversation.

She stated that at the time WILSON was talking, he had had

several beers but was not drunk, but the longer he talked and

drank, the more inebriated he became. WOODSIDE stated that she

heard WILSON say, "I'm the man that shot MARTIN LUTHER KING.

I have had this on my conscience for ten years. I wanted to

get it off my mind.

She stated that WILSON stated that he

had a green airplane he had flown in to Memphis, Tennessee,

at the time he killed KING.

She stated that the reason he

going to surrender himself to authorities was that he had just

renewed his pilot's license and that he knew he would be caught

as a result of his pilot's license. WILSON showed this pilot's

license to BRODERICK. WOODSIDE stated that she remembers

WILSON saying that he was looking through a window or over a

windowsill at the time he shot KING. He stated that after he

shot KING, there was a

series of bangs or shots but WILSON

stated that he was the one that actually shot KING. She stated

that WILSON said he was going to turn himself in to the Sheriff

of Shelby County, Tennessee, and that WILSON started crying at

the end of the conversation. WOODSIDE stated that BRODERICK

said that he believed WILSON was telling the truth, but WOODSIDE

did not believe him.

Interviewed on __ 8/19/78

_Ocean Springs, Mississippifile # Jackson 62-544

by - SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/kbn/mae

Date dictated

8/21/78

11

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 397

---

## Page 398

JN 62-544

2

Sometime during the conversation, WILSON had

stated that he had at one time been a pilot for Governor

CLIFF FINCH, the Governor of Mississippi. He stated he had

flown FINCH during FINCH's gubernatorial campaign. WILSON

also stated that he had flown at one time with the original

Flying Tigers.

WOODSIDE stated that WILSON has been dating a friend

of hers, RITA HERRINGTON, who resides on Fountaine Lane in

Biloxi, Mississippi, telephone number 374-5311. HERRINGTON is

employed as a waitress at the Ramada Inn in Biloxi. HERRINGTON's

son, HOWARD HERRINGTON, supposedly accompanied WILSON to New

Orleans at one time.

WILSON also stated that he had been assigned to

Keester Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi, at onè time, and

she, WOODSIDE, had the

impression that he was in the military

at this time.

12

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 398

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## Page 399

FD-302 (REV. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Dale of transcription.

8/24/78

Approximately 6:45 p.M., SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES

observed a green Ilymouth, bearing a Jackson county,

Mississippi, license tag, stop in front of the Holiday

this aring en

Inn located on U. S. Highway 40g

Gulfport, Mississippi.

A white male was driving the vehicle and a white male

was sitting on the passenger side of the vehicle.

The

individual on the passenger side got out of the vehicle

and it was observed that he was wearing a blue shirt and

checked trousers and he was approximately 45 years of age,

5 feet 10 inches in height, and weighed about 150 pounds.

This individual entered the lobby of the motel.

The

driver of the vehicle parked the vehicle on the west end

of the motel and walked to the front door of the motel.

SA GRAVES asked the driver of the vehicle if he

were Father: (NOEL) FANNON and he acknowledged that he was.

SA GRAVES identified himself to Father FANNON and advised

him that GENE BARKSDALE, Sheriff of Shelby County, Memphis,

He was

advised that Agents of the FBI were in the motel and he was

requested to tell WILSON that the Sheriff was not going io

the FBI Agents were at the motel anc

desired to talk with him if he (WILSON) would agree to talk

with the Agents.

Father FANNON stated he would

first like

to talk with WILSON because Sheriff BARKSDALE had lied about

his appearance in Gulfport.

Facher FANNON thereafter entered the motel and talked

with WILSON in the lobby.

Interviewed on_

8/18/78

_ Gulfport, Mississippi

_File # Jackson 62-544

by=

SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES

/blc

__ Dale diclated.

8/24/78

13

This document contoins neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. Il is the property of the FBI and is looned to your agency;

il and ils contents are not lo be distribuled outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 399

---

## Page 400

FD-302 (REV. 11-27,70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

1

Dale of transcriplion.

8/25/78

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRe, who was accompanied by •

Father NOEL FANNON, Pastor, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic

Church, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was contacted at the

Mississippi,

of the identity of SA BENJAMIN E. GRAVES and he was asked

if he were BURGESS AUDIE WILSON and he acknowledged that

he was WILSON and further stated that he was a junior.

WILSON was advised that Sheriff GENE BARKSDALE

of Memphis,

Tennessee, was not at the motel to meet him;

however, IBL Agents were there and desired to talk with

him, particularly about his daughter's supposedly having

driven a

white Mustang from Kansas City, Missouri, to

Memphis, Tennessee. He stated he had no information to

furnish the FBI.

WILSON inquired as to whether or not he was under

arrest and he was advised that he was not under arrest.

WILSON commented he was not going to give anyone any trouble.

He was asked if he had any weapons on him and he stated he

did not and that SA GRAVES could search him if he so desired.

WILSON was then "patted down" and no weapons were felt on

his body.

WILSON commented that he and Father FANNON had been

to the motel at 9:30

6: 30p mo en August 18, 1998, 1 see Sher75 BARd DAtin at

BARKSDALE and

the Sheriff had lied to them-

WILSON then asked Father FANNON if he would drive

him back to the place he had been picked up and Father FANNON

agreed to do so.

WILSON was again advised that FBI Agents were at the

motel and were still willing to talk with him and he reiterated

that he had nothing to say to the FBI and, as he departed,

commented that the FBI, in the past, had harassed his father

without any explanation.

Interviewed on_

8/18/78

Gulfport, Mississippi

_File # Jackson 62-544

by-

SA BENJAMIN F. GRAVES

/blc

_ Date dictaled

8/24/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. Il is the property of the FBI and is loaned lo your agency:

il and its contents ore not to be distribuled outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 400

14

---

## Page 401

JN 62-544

2

WILSON and Father FANNON thereafter left the area

of the Holiday Inn in Father FANNON's 1976 Plymouth bearing

Jackson County, Mississippi, license JAH 637, and proceeded

east on U. S. Highway 90.

• 15

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 401

---

## Page 402

stair states

JN 62-544

BFG/ blc

The following investigation was conducted by

SAS LEON ROSS GRABEN and BENJAMIN F. GRAVES approximately

6:50 p.M., August 18, 1918, at Gulfport, Mississippi:

The Harrison County Sheriff's Office, Gulfport,

Mississippi, was requested to determine the identity of

tag JAH 637 was registered,

mined this license

tag was

issued for use on a 1976 Plymouth,

operated by Rev. NOEL FANNON, Post Office Box 979, Ocean

Springs, Mississippi.

16

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 402

---

## Page 403

RD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription.

8/23/78

MICHAEL W. PITALO

arrested BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., also known as "BILL"

at 7:35 pollo, on August Is, 1978, while WILSON was a

in an automobile driven by Reverend NOEL

The arrest was effected without incident and was based

on infermation

ubtained from a National Crime Information

Genter (NCIC) "hit" indicating that WILSON

was wanced

on a probation violation by the New Braunfe ls, Texass

Police Department.

by the Ocean Springs Police to the Ocean Springs Police

Department where he was processed for confinement in the

Ocean Springs City Jail.

Detective ALVES advised that after WILSON was

brought to the Ocean springs Police department, he voluntarily

stated on three ditreient occasions without being questioled

that he was the man that shot MARTIN LUTHER KING.

According

to Detective ALVES, WILSON referred to the Shelby County:

Tennessee, Sheriff

saying that it had been arranged prior

to this date that Wilson would give himself up to the

sheriff. ALVES further advised thai WILSON claimed he

had been a colonel in the U.S. Air Force and had flown

with the Shelby County Sheriff while in the service.

to "deal with the FBI"

WILSON told ALVES that he would

of any FBI Agent"

• WILSON also voluntarily told Detective

ALVES that the reason he shot MARTIN LUTHER KING was that

KING was directly or indirectly the cause of the death of

some member of WILSON's family.

Interviewed on

8/18/78

_ot Ocean Springs, MississipPile#

Jackson 62-544

by

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./biw

Date dictated

8/21/78

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBl and is loaned to

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 403

lo be distributed outside your ayency.

---

## Page 404

Tavia steer

JN 62-544

Detective ALVES advised that he had warned

the subject of his rights and WILSON had signed a

Waiver of Rights for Detective ALVES.

18

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 404

__=_

---

## Page 405

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/22/78

Following the arrest by Ocean springs, MisSiSSippI,

police of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRes also known as Blus

he was taken to the Ocean Springs City Jail for processing.

The contents of WILSON's wallet were examined in the

presence of WiLSON and the following items were contained

therein:

Current Texas driver's license #7911315 under

the name of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JRo, 113 Mill Street,

San Marcoss Texas. License expires 1980 and indicates

the date of birth of August 28, 1931.

A slip of paper bearing the name MADLYN, 30L

Berestora, no city listed, telephone 455 3105.

A slip of paper with the name WILL CAMPBELL,

875-4380.

A business card for DANIEL D. GUICE, JRes

Field Supervisor,

Mississippi Probation and arole

OIIICe, BiloxI, MiSSiSSippi, telephone 432-22/1•

On the reverse side of the business card

was an inked notation 1005 Hickory Hill Lane, C103,

Hermitage, Tennessee 37076.

Business card for MAX D. MURRAY, Advertising

Representative, Austin, Texas, American Statesman.

Business card for DAN LEARNER, telephone 388-9601,

Graftsman Workshop, Edgewater Mall, Biloxi, Mississippi.

Business card for DENNIS SULLIVER, Chief Engineer,

Red Fox Industries

telephone number 365-8131.

Incorporation, New. Iberia, Louisiana,

Business card for LOUIS P. HELM, Realtors

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 875-2098 and 875-0016.

Interviewed on

8/18/78

Ocean Springs, MississipPfle#

Jackson 62-544

by

K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR. /biw

Date dictoted

8/21/78

19

This document contains neithes recommend i dis or conclusions of the fle is the properly of the F'Bl and is loumed too

our agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agenc

JV 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 4

---

## Page 406

JN 62-544

An inked note bearing the name BARTON and CHASE,

740 Sanson Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107.

Business card for TRAVIS GARNER, Building

Officials, City of Ocean Springs: 875-4236.

An inked note "State Farm Claims Office,

Gulfport, Mississippi, 896-6353"

FASOID, 863- inked note bearing the name of KARL

A payroll check voucher for WILSON from

$ 1978,

and a second pay voucher for the pay period ending

July 12, 1978.

Business card for Louisiana Off-shore Catererss

JIM FONTINOT, Personnel Director, Houma, Louisiana,

876-3642.

A note bearing the name BOB GAZOETs 214-521-4195.

A bill of sale bearing the name of VERA M.

NEVILL, Canyon Lake, Texas, Route 4, Box 620G.

A payroll voucher for WILSON from Gulf Coast

• Catering Company, New Iberia, Louisiana, for the

period ending June 16, 1978.

A note bearing the name TAD MURRAY, Monroe,

Louisiana, 323-7382, or 728-4060.

4 credit bill for Beall's Department Store.

Jacksonville, Texas, under the name of BURGESS A. WILSON,

067001572.

A Veteran's Administration patient data card

under the name of BURGESS A. WILSON, Canyon Lake, Texas,

card #422341.275.

A business card for Eserman Off-shore Services,.

Incorporation, Golden Meadow, Louisiana, 693-8287.

20

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 406 •

---

## Page 407

JN 62-544

Veteran's of Foreign Wars (VFV) membership

card #990998 for 1977 for VFW Post #8573 at Canyon

Lake,

Texas.

A Federal Communications Commission radio

license #6H4659, issued to WILSON on September 26, 1960.

A business card for Ler-Son International

Incorporated, Mouma, Louisiana.

An inked note bearing the names of StAN

BULLARD and Jones Builders of Long Beach, Mississippi.

A business card for BILL WILSON Builders,

A card bearing WILSON's Social Security

Number 422-34-1275.

A credit type card from the Security State

Bank, Starkville, Mississippi, under the name of

Colonel BURGESS A. WILSON, USAF, retired, #3038940.

Private pilot certificate number 1106770

issued by the federal Aviation Administration,

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma,

showing BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

of 13125 Herrick Avenue,

Grandview, Missouri,

64030,

is authorized to fly single and multi-engine

land airplanes.

A Department of Iransportation form for a

bi-annual flight review dated July 18, 1918, gIving

instructor's name CARL FONLER, and aircraft

C-152, certificate #542727734, dated September 30,

1978,

to expire July 31, 1980, showing that subject

Is authorized to fly private aircraft.

A Department of Transportation medical

certificate first class form signed by Dr. JAMES Bo

MARLIN, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, on August 9, 1978,

giving

the examining physician serial as 12021-1.

A

receipt from Dr. JAMES B. MARTIN, #14168,

dated August 9, 1978, in the amount of $25 for a flight

physical.

21

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 407

---

## Page 408

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription -

8/21/78

On August 19, 1978, Desk Sergeant LAURA MIZE, Ocean

springs, Mississippi,

Police Department, advised that one

of the Ocean Springs,

Mississippi, Police, Patrolman BOBBY

RACHUBA had taken breakfast to inmate "BILI" WILSON at

approximately 8:30 a.m., that date at which time Officer

RACHUBA asked WILSON

he was ready to sign papers waiving

extradition to the state of lexas on a probation viclation.

According to Desk Sergeant MIZE, WILSON replied that he was,

but prior to signing any waiver of extradition he wanted

to talk to the FBI.

Interviewed on

8/19/78

a Ocean Springs, Mississippic# Jackson 62-544

by

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR. /gah

Date dictated _8/21/78

22

This deny t contain either are no o be dis no con lusion other at. It is the property of the FBl and is lone to.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 408

---

## Page 409

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

Officer BOBBY RACHUBA,

Ocean Springs, Mississippi,

a.Mo, On

the Ocean Springs City Jail. At the direction of PolfBILI"

Desk Sergeant LAURA MIZE, he personally asked inmate

WILSON whether he was ready to sign a waiver of extradition

to the State of Texas.

According to Officer RACHUBA, WILSON

replied, "Yes, on one

condition, provided I can talk to the

FBI first."

Interviewed on 8/19/78

-at Ocean Springs, Mississippile H_Jackson 62-544

by

SA Ke Pe WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./ gah

Date dictated _8/21/78

23

our decent contain other see no be distro on lusion out a ra, i is the proporty of the FBI and is loaned los

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 409

---

## Page 410

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

F

•ERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIO

Date of transcription August 12, 1978

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., also known as Bill,

date of birth August 28

422-34-1275, Furnished the following information to SA ROYCE

Social Security Account Number

DAVID HIGNIGHT:

ME: WILSON advised that he was born August 28, 1931,

at Fulton, Mississippi, and that he resided with his family at

Golden, Mississippi, until 1936, at which time the family moved

to Eldridge

grade and

then what to here sentend dach in a abe eighth

until 1947.

He advised on May 2, 1947, he entered the U. S. Air

Force and was discharged in 1950. He stated that after being

out of the Air Force for approximately eight months he was

recalled for the Korean War and stayed in until February, 1960,

at which time he was given an honorable discharge.

He and his wife, BETTY LOU WILSON, moved to Memphis,

Lennessee

following his discharge, where he worked for

Prudential Insurance Company for approximately one year.

After leaving Prudential Insurance Company, he operated

laundry and cleaning business in Memphis.

During this time,

he was also in the Tennessee Air National Guard.

He left Memphis, Tennessee, went to Grandview,

Missouri, where he became a civil service employee in the Air

Force Reserve. He stayed employed in the Air Force Reserve

until 1970. From 1966 until 1970, he also operated a jewelry

store business.

In 1970, he and wife, BETTY WILSON, moved to Memphis,

Tennessee.

aluminum storage buildings.

He stated that in June, 19/0, a

tornado hit his business and destroyed it.

he then went to San Antonio, Texas, and became

employed by the Air Force Reserve as a flight engineer.

He

also operated a jewelry store in San Antonio until 1974, when

he and his wife BETTY divorced.

Interviewed on 8/19/78

-alcean Springs, MississippiFile # Jackson 62-544

by

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT/mae

Dote dictated

8/19/78

24

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is lowned tos

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 410

---

## Page 411

JN 62-544

He then went to Mountain Home, Arkansas, and opened

a jewelry store and married AVIS LEA HUNTER. He was married

Co HUNtER tor approximately six months

and they divorced.

at 1010 Hickory Hill Lane, Hermitage,

• Tennessee.

worked in the gubernatorial campaign for Governor CLIFF FINCH.

mike an one due a pato me,

He then went to Columbus, Mississippi, where he

he married PATRICIA SHINDALA of Starkville,

Mississippi.

He also advised that while in Columbus he sold

fire extinguishers.

He stated that during the gubernatorial

campaign it was

suggested that he tell people that he was a

retired colonel and an ex-prisoner of war to campaign for

FINCH.

He stated that after the campaign was over, he was

dropped by the FINCH people.

• He leit Columbus, MississippI, In January, 1976, and

went to lyler, Texas, where he stayed with LarRy HuGher, a

friend who had a farm. He went to Texas for the purpose of

clearing up some "charges"

against him at New Braunfels, Texas.

He advised that he went to Dallas, Texas,

to see a

friend, and while there, he called his son and asked him to

come see him, and shortly thereafter the police arrived and

arrested him on a charge of non-child support on a warrant

issued for him at Cleveland, Texas.

He was released to

authorities from New Braunfels, where he pled guilty to a

charge of theft by check and received a sentence of eight

years probation.

He advised that he then stayed in the vicinity of

New Braunfels where he did construction work. He had

an

altercation with another employee, and he was arrested for

violation of his probation but was released a couple of weeks

later.

He continued working around New Braunfels and was again

arrested for possession of stolen merchandise which actually

was a dispute between himself and an associate over some

property that he had stored for the associate, and the charges

were subsequently dropped. He continued in the construction

business and married JO ANN CHILDRESS, and they were divorced

after three months.

there until April, at which time he went to work for Gulf Coast

25

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 411

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## Page 412

JN 62-544

Caterers of New Iberia, Louisiana, and worked there until

the end of June of 1918, at which time he came to Ocean

Springs, Mississippi, and opened a jewelry shop. He lived

at the Twin Pines Apartments the first three weeks he was

in Ocean Springs and then moved to Route 6, Box 387.

He furnished the following description of himself:

Name

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.

Also known as

Bill

Date of birth

August 28, 1931

Place of birth

Fulton, Mississippi

Height

5 feet 11 inches

Weight

170 pounds

Eyes

BrOwn

Hair

Gray

Social Security Number

422-34-1275

Education

High school graduate

Military service

U. S. Air Force

1947-1960

Father

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, SR.

(deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

Mother

Stepmother

Brother

Sister

MITTIE DALE (deceased)

LILLIE MAE WILSON (deceased)

Grenada, Mississippi

ALLISON

TOWERS WILSON

Reform, Alabama

LYDA MC GAHEY

2002 East Eighth Avenue North

Columbus, Mississippi

Sister

CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE

Fulton, Mississippi

Ex-wife

BETTY LOU WILSON WADE

Burleson, Texas

Ex-wife

AVIS LEA HUNTER

1010 Hickory Hill Lane

Hermitage, Tennessee

Ex-wife

PATRICIA SHINDALA

Starkville, Mississippi

(believed killed in car

accident)

Ex-wife

JO ANN CHILDRESS

113 Mill Street

San Marcos, Texas

26

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 412

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## Page 413

JN 62-544

4

Daughter

Son

Son

DEBORAH ANN JONES,

husband CHARLES,

Belvedere, Illinois

STEVEN WAYNE WILSON

Burleson, Texas

MARK ANTHONY WILSON

Burleson, Texas

27

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 413

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## Page 414

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription -

August 19, 1978

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., an inmate of the Ocean Springs

City Jail, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, furnished the following

information to ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT and K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.,

who he knows to be Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investi-

gation, alter having been advised the purpose of the interview being

his knowledge and involvement in the murder of Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING

and after having been advised of his Constitutional rights which he

waived as indicated by an Advice of Rights and Waiver of Rights Form

Mr. WILSON advised that at the time prior to the murder of

MARTIN LUTHER KING, he was living in Grandview, Missouri, in a house

on Byers Road with

his wife, BETTY LOU, and his three children,

DEBORAH, STEVE, and MARK. He was in the Air Force Reserve and

also

operated a jewelry store.

In the course of his jewelry business, he met a white male

Italian who was in his late sixties and was approximately 5 feet 9

inches tall, weighed approximately 230 pounds,

and who operated a

jewelry trade shop on Walnut Street.

He stated that this white male

introduced him to another white male Italian by the name of MITCH

(Last Name Unknown), who was in his mid fifties and was approximately

5 feet 10 inches tall, and weighed approximately 190 pounds, who had

black, wavy hair and had some connection with a bonding company, and

MITCH's brother, name not recalled, who fit the same physical

description as MITCH, but who had numerous cut scars on his face.

He stated that. MITCH started delivering jewelry to him for

the purpose of having the stones removed from the fittings. He stated

MITCH usually met him at a bar on Walnut Street which was run by a

white female and it also appeared that MITCH might have been a part

owner of had an interest in this bar. He stated that due to the

volume of jewelry that MITCH was bringing to him, he asked MITCH

about it, and MITCH advised him that it was stolen jewelry. MITCH

told him, however, that he, WILSON, was in as deep as he, MITCH, was

and that

he would

• have to continue

working with MITCH. He stated

this

relationship with MITCH continued until 1970.

He stated that MITCH brought up the idea of killing KING

and said that there was a $50,000 contract on him. However, he

8/19/78

_Ocean Springs, Mississippffile# Jackson 62-544

Interviewed on -

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR.

SA ROYCE DAVID HIGNIGHT/ RDH/mae

by

Date dictated

8/19/78

28

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 414

---

## Page 415

JN 62-544

2

never said who put out the contract but said that he could get

the money for WILSON if he killed KING.

WILSON stated that MITCH was well aware of his, WILSON's,

thoughts. concerning KING and the black civil rights movement, in

that his father, who was a pastor of the Central Baptist Church at

Grenada, Mississippi, died of a heart attack which he, wILSoN,

thought

was caused as a result of racial tensions at Grenada brought

on by the forceful integration of his father's church.

WILSON stated that approximately five or six months before

KING's murder, he started gathering information on the movements,

habits, and whereabouts of KING.

WILSON advised that he had a red and white Bonanza airplane,

Register Number 34L, and a Cessna 310 twin-engine aircraft, which was

blue and white, which planes he used to fly to different places

where KING was supposed to be.

He stated that he recalls going to

runtsville, Alabama; Tupelo, Mississippi; Jackson, Tennessee; Atlanta,

Georgia; and

Greenville, South Carolina.

lupelo,

Mississippi, he

He stated that while at

stayed in the Ramada Inn and believes that

other places

he visited he stayed in Holiday Inns.

He stated that MITCH furnished him a Japanese sniper rifle.

He stated that he kept the rifle and that just before Christmas of

1975, he had it reworked at a gunshop in Columbus, Mississippi, on

Fourth Street across from a bank.

He stated that

the last knowledge

he had of the rifle, his older son, STEVEN WAYNE WILSON, had the

rifle and a shotgun

but had told him that he had sold it.

Mr. WILSON advised that there was a garbage strike in

progress at Memphis, Tennessee, and that MITCH called him at his

store in Grandview, Missouri, and told him that KING was coming to

Memphis for. a rally and instructed WILSON to come to Memphis where

he was to meet two men at the Wonder Bar located at the corner of

Summer Avenue and White Station Road.

Mr. WILSON advised that he flew to Memphis, Tennessee,

in the Bonanza aircraft and landed at an airport just north of

Raleigh, Tennessee.

He stated that the airport was operated by a

long-time acquaintance of. his who had attended a church which was

pastored by WILSON's father in the past. WILSON stated that his

daughter, DEBORAH, picked him up at the airport in her 1965 white

Mustang, which WILSON had previously bought for

her and which was

registered in his name in Missouri.

29

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 415

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## Page 416

JN 62-544

He advised that DEBORAH and her mother, BETTY LOU, were

staying at the residence of WIlsoN's father-in-law, VERNON HOOTEN,

• 3095 Ruskin Road, Memphis, Tennessee.

He stated that HOOTEN had had

a heart attack and that his wife and daughter were temporarily stay-

ing at the HOOTEN residence.

WILSON advised that he went to the Wonder Bar and while

having a drink two white men approached him, one having an accent

similar to a Puerto Rican.

The two white males furnished him with FBI credentials,

which he stated had a black and white photograph of himself on it,

and they took him and showed him where KING was to hold the rally.

They then took WILSON to a hotel on South Main Street near Beale

Street and took him to a room on the third floor. They told him

he was to be in the. crowd at the rally and that

a decoy shot was to

be fired and that he was then to shoot.

They said that KING had a

habit of raising his arms over his head when he was making a speech

and that the second time that he did so, the shots were to

be fired.

WILSON stated that on the day of the murder he was in the

crowd standing near a wood fence approximately 60 feet from where

KING was standing and that when KING raised his arms the second time

he shot him.

Mr. WILSON advised that he had the rifle which he used

strapped to his belt under a suit coat and attached to his belt on

a swivel,. He stated that the barrel protruded from below his coat

but no one questioned him concerning it.

He said that he had prac-

ticed a great deal swiveling the rifle and firing it.

He advised that after the shooting, he was stopped by the

Memphis police, but he showed them the. credentials, and they let

him

go,. and he walked on down the street approximately two blocks

to where he had left the Mustang parked. He advised that he got

In the. Mustang and drove back to the HOOTEN residence, and his

aaughter. Deborah, then took him to the airport, and he got nis

plane and flew back to Kansas City. He stated that the airport

that he used was on the kansas side on the highway to olathe,

Kansas. He stated the airport was run by First Name Unknown,

FISHER.

He also stated that he had

purchased the Bonanza aircraft

from FISHER.

WILSON advised that approximately one week before the

murder, MITCH gave him $25,000 in $20 bills, and following the

murder, MITCH gave him another $25,000, at which time he gave the

credentials back to MITCH.

30

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 416

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## Page 417

•

JN 62-544

4

WILSON advised that he has no knowledge of JAMES EARL

RAY having been involved in the conspiracy.

. •

31

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 417

---

## Page 418

F1-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

8/21/78

Photographs and major case fingerprints were taken of

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

JR.,

also known as

"BILI"

at the Ocean

Springs, Mississippi, City Jail.

Interviewed on

8/19/78

-at Ocean Springs, Mississippfilc # Jackson 62-544

by

SA Ko P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR./gah

Date dicrated _8/21/78

32

'his document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

our agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 418

---

## Page 419

JN 62-544

KPH/drw

1

The following investigation was conducted by

SA KENNETH P. HUGHES:

Grand city tich 2 20n.

On August 19, 1978, a review of the 1978

Grenada City Directory shows a listing for the Central

Baptist Church with Reverend JOE BELL as pastor at

333 Second Street, Grenada, Mississippi, telephone

226-2715.

The directory shows JOE BELI and wife,

MYRA N. BELL,

residing at 235 South Mound Street,

Grenada, Mississippi, home telephone 226-4133, and

that JOE BELL is the

pastor of the Central Baptist

Church.

On August 19, 1978,

FRED TILGHMAN, Chief of

Police, Grenada,

Mississippi, Police Department,

Grenada, Mississippi, advised he could locate nc

arrest record or outstanding warrants for BURGESS

AUDLE WILSON, JR.

also known as BILL WILSON, date

of birth, August 28, 1931, place of birth, Fulton,

Mississippi.

record or outstanding warrants on BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

also known as BILL WILSON, white male, date of birth,

August 20, 1931, at Fulton, Mississippi.

On August 19, 1978, HUBERT SPEARS, United

Mississippi, approximately four or five years ago.

33

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 419

---

## Page 420

JN 62-544

2

SPEARS stated that B. A. WILSON died, and his

defer, possibly at sa Laves after B. 4. WILSON'S

Street, Grenada,

Mississippi, which house is now vacant or in the

process of being torn down.

SPEARS further stated

that B. A. WILSON and his wife lived in the parsonage

behind Central Baptist Church, and SPEARS stated that

Lf WILSON had any children, none lived in Grenada, or

they were all grown when WILSON was the preacher at

Central Baptist Church.

A review of the Grenada City Directory for

the year 1978 shows a listing for MIS. LILLY M.

WILSON

at 375 South Levee Street, Grenada, Mississippi,

telephone number 226-4737.

34

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 420

---

## Page 421

11-202 (Rov. 11-27-40)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Datc of transcription .

8/23/78

Interviewed on

Reverend JOE BELLS

Pastor, Central Baptist

Church, Grenada, Mississippi, turished the tollowing

infoimation:

Bat stated that he knew B. A. WILSON,

stating

that Wlason was the tormer pastor at che

Central Baptist Church, Crobedas

stater that B. A. WILSON died

dan a heist at on

January 7, 1967.

BEll stated that WILSON was the

pastor of the Central Baptick Church for approximately

13 years, or from 1954 to 1967.

Band stated that mior to coming to Grenada,

Bo Ao WIlson was at namp Creek at culton.

st the cha get on

Mississippi,

and prior to that was at Lynn station, wich is

located norch of

Jasper, Alabana, and also at

Eldridge, Alabana.

BElL, stated

that. B. A. WILSON's wife was

Concerning the WILSON family LILLY WILSON.

known as

BELL stated that LILLY and Be

do WIiSON lived in

the church parsonage behind

the church, and their

children

were all grown and married at that time.

BELL identified the WILSON children as

follows:

MCS• CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic)

Fulton, Mississippi

BILL WILSON

Kansas City, Kansas

LIDA (Last Name Unknown)

Columbus, Mississippi

4. One other son, name not known.

BELL stated that LILLY WILSON was B. A. WILSON's

second wife as B. A. WILSON's first wife died when the children

were young.

8/19/78

at Oxford, Mississippi

_ File # JN 62-544

SA KENNETH P. HUGHES/dIw

Dote dictated _ 8/20/78

35

---

## Page 422

JN 62-544

BELL stated that he, himself, came to Grenada,

Mississippi, and was pastor at the

• Central Baptist

Church begining in March, 1967.

Concerning BILL WILSON, Ball stated that he

was fron Kansas City,

Kansas, was a pilot, and tiew

freight or ferried planes from Kansas City, Kansas,

the Island of Guam.

BELi. stated that BILL WILSON caused his

father, B.

Ao

WILSON, many problems with debts and

money,

and BELI stated he believed that BILL WILSON

was arrested in California for embezzlement, city and

state not kacin.

BELI stated that BILL WILSON flew into

Memphis, Tennassee, on a Sunday after his father

died on

January 7,

1967, and BELL stated he believed

that BILL WILSON

was met by the ramily at the Memphis,

Tennessee airport.

Bels recalled thei the funeral

for B. A. WILSON was on the followng

Monday, and that

he, Bell, Left Grenada, Mississippi on the Tuesday attcr

Ba do WILSON'

s funerol. BELL stated he did not know

how long BILL WILSON stayod in Grenada, Mississippi

after his father's funeral.

BELL described BILL WILSON as a white male,

sandy hair, and stated that he did talk with BILl

WILSON's second wife whom he described as a bleached

blonde with heavy male-tip.

BELL stated he did not

know if BILL WILSON had any children or not.

BELL stated that B. A. and LILLY WILSON

did own a house on the corner of Levee and Fourth

Streets

• in Grenada, Mississippi, and BELL stated

that he knew of no other land that B. A. WIISON

owned that BELL was aware of.

BELL stated that he had talked with

LILLY WILSON after B. A. WILSON's death, and stated

that LILLY WILSON was desperately afraid of BILL

WILSON, and told BILL WILSON she never wanted to

36

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 422

---

## Page 423

sha, sin a

IN 62-544

lay eyes on him againg or have him, BILL WILSON,

set

foot in her house.

BEL. further stated that LILLY

did nOt WEnt BILL WILSON

to get any, of his

Father's. B. A. WILSON

BILL WILSON

s, inceritance, as he,

had already

estate by his faches. B. A. WILSON, mying off

reccived his share of the

BILL WILSON®

s debts.

BELL stated that he believed

the amount of $5,000 was the figure mentioned.

BELL stated that LILLY WILSON is now

deceased, stating that she hed lect Grenada, Mississippi,

and went to a nursing home at fulton, Mississippi,

where she died approximately one year azo.

BELL stated that he did hear that BILl WiLSON

did get his father's, B. A. WILSON,

shotgun as part

of the inhentance, stating that BILL WILSON and his

name not known, argued or disagreed over

who would get this shotoun which belt stated was worth

approximately $150 or $200 at chac time.

BELL stated

that he heard that the other WILSON brother walked

out in disgust, and apparently left the shotgun with

BILI. WILSON.

BELL stated that CHRISTINE GUNTHORPE (phonetic)

was the administracor of the estate,

and an attorney

by the nane of FREDERIsh read the will.

BELL concluded by stating that the State

Mississippi

and their locations.

37

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 423

---

## Page 424

F1-302 (Rev. ! 1-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dute of transcription

8/22/78

LYDIA NG GAHEY, 2002 Fast 8ch Avenue North,

Columbus, Mississippi, was advised of the identity

of che interviewing Agent and of the nature of the

inquiry.

MC GAHEY thereafter provided the following

information:

MC GAHEY stated that she is the sister of

BURGESS AUDIE WILSON,

JRos known to the family as

"BILL" WILSON.

She advised that WILSON has a very

serious drinking problem that came to the surface

shortly after the death of their father in 1967.

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON had been

very close to their father and became extremely upset

and distressed after he passed away.

MC GAHEY advised

that WILSON

may have had

a drinking problen prior to

the death of their father, but that she only noticed

it after their father passed away in 1967.

MC GAHEY advised that on

this past Thursday

night at approximately 11:00 p.m. (August 1í, 1918)

she received a telephone call from her brother, BILl

WIlsON, and during that call he indicated to her that

he had killed Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MC GAHEY

stated that she did not take her brother

sariously

as he has a history of telling untruts and

staied

that

she quickly asked him if he was "Rauel"

MG GAHEY

advised that her brother indicated to her he did not

know what she was talking about.

MC GAHEY advised that approximately one week later

she received a similar telephone call from BILL WILSON

and on this occasion, he told her that their brothers

ALLYSON WILSON, Reform, Alabama, had suffered a heart

attack. MC GAHEY stated that she immediately called

her brother in Reform, Alabama, and found that he was

in perfect health.

ILSON had called not and thad der mothere a on involved

Interviewed on

8/19/78

-a Columbus, Mississippi

File #

Jackson 62-544

38

by

SA GWYNNE L. HUPFER/bj

Date dictated

8/21/78

is document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBl. It is the property of the fBi and is loane Do

W 65994 Doc/a:3298974ens are "gh to be distributed outside your agene

---

## Page 425

- hue mie

JN 62-544

in an airplane crash but that he had survived this crash.

She stated that she later found out this was not true

at all.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON has been

married several times and has had numerous girl friends.

She stated that several of his ex-wives and several of

his girl friends have contacted her and asked her it

it was true that BILL WILSON had been a prisoner of

war.

She stated that she assured all of them that this

was not the case.

MG GAHEY advised that in 1958, to the best of

her recollections

BILL WILSON

was living in Grandviews

Missouri,

and was

working at the Wilbur Jewelry Store,

Belton,

Missouri.

She stated that WILSON told her that

he owned this jewelry store, but she later found out

that he just was an employee there.

She stated that

BILL WILSON

never want to Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968,

to the best of her knowledge.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON moved to

Columbus, Mississippi, around the first of June, 1975,

but left

Columbus, Mississippi,

around the last of

August, 1975. She stated that when he left Columbus,

Mississippi, he moved to starkville sissippi, and

stayed there until around January,

that while he was

living in Starkville, Mississippi,

he married PAT SHINBOLA, 103 Catherine

What are ate ente 1ure Scary 1, Peo E05p, indicated

(and left PAT SHINBOLA) he went to

the State of Texas.

she indicated that shortly after his arrival in Texas,

ne was placed in jail in San Antonio.

She stated that

she received numerous letters from BILL WILSON while

he was incarcerated i"mill Streety, Texas, and recalled

that the jail was on

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON was married

to BETTY WADE, 233 Smith Street, Burleson, Texas, for

several years.

She stated that

to the best of her

recollection,

her brother was married to BETTY WADE in

She stated that he received a divorce from her on

one occasion and that they later remarried. MC GAHEY

39

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 425

---

## Page 426

JN 62-544

advised that her brother and BETTY WADE had three

children, one daughter and two sons.

MC GAHEY advised that their daughter is

DEBBIE JONES

• 2628 Newburg Road, Trailer F106,

Belvidere, Illinois, telephone number 815-543-91340

MC GAHEY advised that BILL WILSON's oldest

son, STEVE WILSON, resides at 3117 Livingston,

Fort Worth,

Texas.

She stated that WILSON's youngest

son, MARK WILSON, has been recently married and she

is not certain where he is presently living.

MC GAHEY advised that BILL. WILSON's former

mother and father-in-law,

Mr. and Mrs. VERNON BOTTEN,

reside

at 3095 Ruskin Road, Bartlett,

Tennessee, and

subscribes to telephone number 901-386-4628.

MC GAHEY stated that BILL WILSON marzied an

individual in san Marcos, Texas,

whose first name was

JOANN and those last name she did not know.

She stated

that this individual resides at 113 Mill Street,

San Marcos:

Texas, and subscribes to telephone number

512-392-40250

GAHEY stated that JOANN indicated

to her

in a

• telephone conversation on one occasion

that she planned to divorce BILL WILSON and during

the

same conversation she asked MC GAHLY whether or

not WILSON had, in fact, been a prisoner of war.

MC GAHEY stated that she told JOANN that he had never

been a prisoner of war.

MC GAHEY stated that she, as the oldest child

in the tamily, has always felt an obligation to look out

For the interest of her brothers and sisters

She stated

that she has been quite concerned for the past several

years with the behavior pattern of her brother,

BILL

WILSON•

She stated that on more than one occasion she

has

discussed the possibility of admitting him to an

institution for alcoholics with her brother,

ALLYSON WILSON,

who lives in Reform, Alabama.

She stated that both she

and ALLYSON WILSON

feel that their brother, BILL WILSON,

desperately needs some type of help.

40

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 426

---

## Page 427

Tsaid gy. 11-27-1111

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESCIGATION

Daic of transcription..

8/23/78

Mrs. CHRISTINE (LION) GUNCHAR? vas lele honically

contacted at Fulson,

nassissappi, telephone numbe: 864-93356

Mrso Guestral advised that she is the sister of BURGuso

AUbER MIlong JRo, and resides at Route I, Box 30g FulLons

Mississippie

MISo GUNTHARP adviced that her brother BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON g

MES• GUNTHAUP

telephone number 327-11410

MiSe

limitod contact with

t with Bista durinat he lass

had extremely

during the last li years since

her

father's death.

MiEs • GUNCHARD

related that her fathes

B. A. WILSON, SR.,

Baptist minister in Grenada,

Mississiopi,

and died in 1967. Mis. GUNTHARP stated

that

it was agroed prio: to her father's death that she, CHRISTINE,

would be named executrix of the will which would leave all of

B. A. WILSON's personai property to his wife LILLY who was

second wife

stopmother to each of the children.

Mrs.

GUNtinae staced thot her stcomother Ility MliSON remained

aLive uncil l9/s and during her Life span from 1901 until. 4976

she was extremely dupondanü upon others for assistances

Mrs. CUNTHARY stated that she and her

Sister LYDIr. were the

only children to show any concern fox LILLY

WILSON's needs.

GUNTAARP stated that she therefore handled the disbursement.

of the WiLSON escace in accordance with the interest of each

of the brochers and sisters. She stated that this created

hard reelings with the brothors since they did nor feel as

chougn they were seceiving an equitable share of the estate.

"Bill"

seemed to be extremely upset over this

matter and, in fact, called the GUNMARP residence on one

occasion several weeks ago stating that CHRISTINE had "killed"

her brother referring to ALLISON nho resides in Reform,

Alabama.

Mrs• GUNTHARE stated that she understoo hor

brother

"Bill" to mean that her

handling of the estace woo responsible

for her brother ALLISON's death.

Mas• GUNihAkt scated that

ALLISON is alite and healthy and this statement by "Bill" was

totally incorrect. Mrs, GUNCHARl advised that her deceased

Interviewed on -

8/19/78

_at Tupelo, Mississippi

-File| Jackson 62-544.

by

SA DONALD HI• GREENE/nib

Date diclared

8/21/78

41

This dooumom contains nosther recommonditions nor conclusions of the lil. It is the property of the Fit and is loner lo

NW 55994C:DocId:929897681'Page 427o be distribuled outside your agenes.

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 428

IN 62-544

father tried to get highlo. "3i11" on a number of

s" alcoholic and mental

Maso GUNTHAR? Scared that her brother 15 a

heavy inter and tends to fabricate stories when under

the influence of alcohol.

• Meso GUNTRATP stated that

"Bill" will fabricate

various types

of stories to gain

attention.

She recalled an incident whereupon she was

contacted by "Bill" just prior to entezing the hospital

whereupon "Bill" told her that he was going to the

penitentiary Mrs. GUNTHARP stated that this was totally

untrue.

Mrs. GUNTHARP explained that "Bill" entered the

United States

Als Force by forging his father's signature

at age 14 or 15 and remained in the Air Force for almost

20 years.

She advised that he served one tour in England

approximately three years and resigned prior io

completing his Lo.year tour.

She described her brother

as being a vasy intelligent

individual who was capable oi

piloting plenes and conducting a jewelry and watch repair

She advised that he had been involved in insurance

sales in

the past.

Mrs. GUNTHARP advised that her brother has been

married five times and she has learned through family

conversations that her brother

"Bill" told one of his

wives that he had been a prisoner of war in the pasto Mis

GUNTHARP Stated this is also untrue.

Mis. GUNTHARP advised that her brother had threatened

her husband LECN in the past over the will settlement and she

and her husband have very little to do with him in view

of his erratic behavior.

Mrs GUNTHARP stated that she recalls her brother

"Bill" living

where he was

in in some sype circuit servicest

She stated that her brother has lived in Memphis, Tennessee,

intownpast when he was married to BETTY LOU (Last. Name

she stated that

"Bill" has a high school education

and completed a portion of college through the United States:

Air Force. She advised he has one daughter DEBORAH ANNE who

resides in Bellview, Illinois, and two sons STEVE and NARK.

ANTHONY •

42

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 428

---

## Page 429

JN 62--544

las. GUNIVARP concluded by stating that she has

very little confidence in any statements made by her brother

in view of her past experience with him,

43

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 429

---

## Page 430

JN 62-544

HHC/kbn

}

The following investigation was conducted at

Ocean Springs, Mississippi by SA HARRY H. CARPENTER

on August 19, 1978:

LOUIS P. HELMS, Helms Realty, U. S. Highway

a photograph of WILSON and he still stated that he

did not know WILSON and did not know how WILSON had his

name.

MAUDIE ODOM, Bartender,

Angle Inn Restaurant

number 875-0220.

On August 19, 1978, Mrs. MARGARET ALLEN,

Assistant Manager,

Iwin Oaks

Motel

Mississippi, telephone number 875-5881, stated that

BILL WILSON

stayed at the Twin Oaks Motel for

approximately one month and was an ideal tenant.

She stated he caused no problems and she knows of

no close associates of WILSON.

44

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 430

---

## Page 431

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription -

August 21, 1978

CARL D. FORTNA, Route 6, Box 387, Ocean Springs,

Mississippi, telephone number 875-0220, was advised of the

identity of the interviewing Agent and

the nature of the

interview.

FORTNA, a white male, born June 2, 1932, in

Great Bend, Kansas, advised that

he completed the tenth

grade of high school, and he could read and write.

FORINA stated that he met BILL WILSON in Belton,

Missouri, in 1966 or 1967.

FORTNA was in the Air Force at

this time

stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base in

Belton, Missouri. FORTNA stated that WILSON and WILSON's

wife owned a jewelry store in Belton, Missouri, and that

WILSON was a member of the 442nd Air Force Reserve Unit

stationed at Richards-Gebauer Air Force Base. FORTNA stated

he knew WILSON through their association in the VEW in Belton,

Missouri.

FORINA stated that he, FORINA, retired from the Air

Force in lyby and did not see WILSON again except for one

brief moment in 1972 until approximately two months ago.

WILSON came to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, from Lafayette,

Louisiana,

about two months ago and lived

in the Twin Pines

Motel on Highway 90, Ocean Springs, Mississippi. On July 23,.

1978, WILSON moved into a house owned by FORTNA located next

door

to FORTNA's present residence.

At approximately 4:15 PM on August 18, 1978, WILSON'

asked FORTNA to come into WILSON's house, that he had

something

very important to tell him.

WILSON told

FORINA, "I killed that

black son-of-a-bitch." FORTNA asked WILSON who he was talking

and WILSON said,

"I am telling you the truth. I actually killed him. I've

been living with it for ten years, and I can't take it anymore."

WILSON told FORTNA that MARTIN LUTHER KING was responsible for

WILSON's father's death. WILSON did not elaborate further on

this. WILSON told FORTNA that this killing was

"engineered"

by LOU CRUZ (phonetic). FORTNA stated that he knows LOU CRUZ

and that LOU CRUZ owned or still owns Lou Cruz Jewelry, 1505

Main Street, Grandview, Missouri. WILSON told FORINA that he

drove to the State Line Airport in Kansas City, Missouri,

driving a new Ford Thunderbird. WILSON told FORTNA that CRUZ

Interviewed on -

8/19/78

-Ocean Springs, MississippiFilel Jackson. 62-544

by -

SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/mae

- Date dictated

8/19/78

45

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 431

---

## Page 432

JN 62-544

2

also owned an identical Ford Thunderbird. WILSON left his

s Thunderbird

and took it from the airport so it would not be noticed.

When WILSON arrived in Memphis, he borrowed a white Ford

DEBORAH.

Mustang that he had purchased for his daughtes' in the Mustang.

DEBORAH had driven from Kansas. City to Memphis

WILSON told FORTNA that he went to the motel where MARTIN

The the bit 19 2o 9nd has bason o, ison a paced

WILSON told FORTNA that he was driving away from the

in the Mustang, and he was stopped by the Memphis police,

but he talked himself out of a ticket, and the car was not

searched.

He stated that the rifle was in the trunk of the

car at this time.

WILSON

told FORTNA that he then flew his

airplane back to Kansas City, and CRUZ picked him up at the

airport and took him home.

FORTNA stated that when WILSON told him the above

s grave in

front of a priest that it was the truth. FORTNA stated that

* WILSON had never mentioned this subject prior to this instance.

FORTNA stated that WILSON has been drinking heavily for the

past two months and has lied to him several times in the past

two months.

WILSON, on occasion, would tell FORTNA that he

had been married three or four times since divorcing his first

wife and then come back at a later date and say that he had

not been married after divorcing his first wife.

FORTNA stated that WILSON is an excellent pilot,

that he, FORTNA, has flown with WILSON through bad weather,

and WILSON had no problems flying the aircraft.

46

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 432

---

## Page 433

JN 62-544

GLH/bjw

The following investigation was conducted by

SA GWYNNE L. HUPFER at Columbus, Mississippi, on

August 19, 1978:

A physical observation of 401 5th Street South,

Columbus, Mississippi, revealed that this is the address

of the Candlewood Apartments.

that he is the owner of the Candlewood Apartments.

LANCASTER stated that he does not recall anyone by the

name BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., or BILL WILSON, renting

LANCASTER advised, however, that

he has had a great deal of turnovers in these apartments

over the past several years and he could not possibly

recall all his tenants by name.

LANCASTER advised

that his daughter, RITA BROWNLEE, was the resident

manager of the Candlewood Apartments for him for several

years. He stated that she might recall this individual.

RITA BROWNLEE, 3504 Camilia Circle, advised that

she

was the resident manager of Candlewood Apartments

during portions of 1974 and all of 1975 and 1976.

BROWNLEE

advised that she does not recall anyone named BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., or

BILL WILSON

renting an apartment

from her.

She stated, however, that she located a payment

from a BILL WILSON, dated July 16, 1975, for apartment #9

at the Candlewood Apartments.

She advised that this is

the only record she could find of this individual and

stated that he must have paid his rent payments in cash.

DONALD BEARD, Columbus Police Department

advised that their records indicate BURGESS A. WILSON

the complainant and victim of a strong-arm robbery

on August 1, 1975.

BEARD advised that is the only record

they have of a BURGESS A. WILSON in their files.

BEARD stated that they have a record of a BILL

as being

again on August 13, 1975.

his records indicates that on both of these occasions another

47

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 433

---

## Page 434

JN 62-544

2

tenant at the Candlewood Apartments had called the

made and no charges being filed.

BARBARA HENSON, Dispatcher, Lowndes County

Sheriff's Office,

advised that their records are negative

concerning BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR., or BILL WILSON.

48

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 434

==-

---

## Page 435

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

• Date of transcription

8-21-78

WILLIAM HENRY CAMPBELL, 1706 Kensington Drive,

Mississippi, was advised of the identity

of the interviewing Agent and the nature of the interview.

CAMPBELI stated that he is the general superintendent of

Gulf South Construction Company, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

CAMPBELL stated that he does know BILL WILSON

and that BILL WILSON had worked for him at Gulf South

Construction Company as a carpenter for approximately

two weeks in July. He stated that WIlSON worked

directly under him, CAMPBELL, but that WILSON quit

after two weeks because he wanted more money and

CAMPBELL was not able to pay him more.

He stated that WILSON was a relatively quiet

person who did not brag or talk about anything concerning

violence or notoriety and did not appear to have any

racial problems.

CAMPBELL made available the following application

for employment concerning BILL WILSON:

Interviewed on

8-19-78

_Ocean Springs, Mississippio#

Jackson 62-544

by SA HARRY H. CARPENTER/kbn

Date dictated

8-21-78

49

his document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned I

our agency; it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agenes

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 435

000-10750 502112

---

## Page 436

IN: 62-544:*

6.v

application to emplogment

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

Dais 7-5 - >8 Soclal Security Number 434 = 22-1475

Name

WiLson.

BiLi

OCEANS

57211 NS 39104

Pormanent Addrsys

Siroel

Phons Number 825-0220:

own Hom

Date of Bith 8 - 28-32 Height 5 11" weight L TA

Marriod

Zip.

Rant

Board

Color

of Hair Black

•Single

Widowed

Number of Children

3.0000

i Dependents Others: 7y

..Than Wife or Chlidren

Il Related to Añyonö in Our Employ,

State Name and Department

Divorced

Separated

Citizen:

of U.S. A.

"Yas

No. O

Referred

By

EMPLOYYENT DESIRED

Postion CARPELTRA

Are You Employed Now? NO

Date You

Can Start

7-6-x8

I So May We Inquire

of Your Present Empioyer

•Salary

Desired

Y.68 FoL

Ever Applied to this Company Belora?

Where

When

EDUCATION

Name and Location of School

Years

Attended

- :

Date

Graduated

Subjects Studied

Grammar School

12

• High Schoo)":

College.

Trade, Business or

Correspondence

School

Subjects of Special Study or Research Work

What Foreign Languages Do You Speak Fluently? NO NK

U.S, Minor US.AL

Naval Service

Read

Writa

Present Membership in

Rank /1/.90T National Guard or Reserves

(Civic, Athletic, Fraternal, etc.) -

EXCLUDE ORGANIZATIONS, THE NAME OR CHARACTER OF WHICH INDICATES THE RACE, CREED, COLOR OR NATIONAL ORIGIN OF ITS NEM9EAS.

FO: 6601-25 U.S. A WILSON JONES

(Continued on Oiher Side)

APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 436

---

## Page 437

IN 62-5443

• FORMER EMPLOYERS (List Below Last Four Employers, Starting With Last One First)

Dato

Month and Year

From JAN 78

TO TUN 28

From FEB 75

Name and Address of Employer

LẠ. OFFSHORE

HouMA;

CONTRARTTR

Salary

Position

Reason for Leaving

4. 05H1

SELF

A FESTAREE

NO WORK:

TO NAU ZY

From MAy Leg

TO FEB?S

US.

AiR

KEESTER:

AFB, 1. 5

1002 NA

RETIRED

From

TO

"REFERENCES.

Give Below the Names of tree Persons Not Related To You, Wham You Have Known At Least One Year.

12-441

Name...i

Address Sec

27595

SPRINGS" DRIVE

Business a

Years

Acquainted

1 CARE FORTRA

RETIRER USAL

207: BALINTRAL:.

12

15

3

3 MARTIN BRANSItAN

BRUSSALE

PHYSICAL. RECORD:

List Any Physical Delecks

Nois

12022

Were You Ever Injured? GIve Datalls:

Have You Any Defects In Hearing? NO

1729s

In Vision? Ma " in Spoach? NA

I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application.! understand that misrepresentation or omission of facts callad for

is cause for dismissal. Further, I understand and agree that my employment is for no delinite period and may, regardless of the date of payment

of my wagea and salary, be terminated at any time without any previous notice.

Date

Interviewed Byi.

REMARKS:

Nealnsgg.

Personality

Signajure

DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE

053725

Character

Ability

Hired

For Dept.

Position

Will Report

Salary

Wages

Approved: 1.

2.

Employment Manager.

Dapt. Head

General Manager

51

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 437

---

## Page 438

at mise

JN 62-544

/blc

1

AT VETERANS ADMINISTRATION CENTER, GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI

On August L1, 1918

Administration Division, Veterans Administration center al

Sulfport, Mississippi, advised SC(S) BETTY LOU CLARK sh

ould locate no record indicating that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

JR., had ever received treatment at the Gulfport or Biloxi,

Mississippi, Veterans Administration Centers.

AT KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

On August 21, 1978, Airman First Class SUSAN DRENNON,

Clerk, Registrar

''s Office, Keesler Medical Center,

Keester Air

Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi,

advised SA EDGAR I. O'NEILL,

JR. that there was no record in

the in-patient records or out-

patient records that BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. had ever received

treatment there.

She stated that if a patient is treated for routine

physical examination and is not again seen for a period of two

years, all medical records are thereafter transmitted to U. S.

Air Force Medical Records Center, St. Louis, Missouri.

52

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 438

---

## Page 439

JN 62-544

BWW/1rm

1

The following investigation was conducted by SA

BRENT W. WARBERG at Columbus, Mississippi:

PARKER W. NEELY, 1014 Short Main Street, Columbus,

Mississippi, advised he did business until 1976 as the

Box 4-N Gun Shop.

His business concerned gunsmithing.

NEELY's records reflect on July 17, 1975,

B. A. WILSON, JR.,

Starkville, Mississippi, brought in an Arisaka 25 caliber

Japanese military type with the

serial number obliterated.

The rifle was a long barrel

model. NEELY redid the stock and action.

The gun was in

working order when he got it.

December 9, 1975. NEELY advised e gun was picked up on

other records regarding

he gun were destroyed; however, he does recall the subject

as he sold the subject

a Colt Diamondback 38 revolver,

inch barrel, for which the subject still owes him.

NEELY

stated he determined later the

subject was arrested somewhere

in west Texas and this revolver was confiscated. NEELY could

provide no other information regarding the subject or his

activities.

NeELy did recall the subject stated he obtained

the rifle from some individual in Tupelo, Mississippi, name

unrecalled.

53

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 439

---

## Page 440

JN 62-544

The following investigation was conducted by

SA K. P. WHITE-SPUNNER, JR., of the Jackson Office of the

On August 23, 1978, Sergeant LAURA MIZE, Desk

Sergeant, Ocean springs,

county, Texas,_ Sheriff's Department had arrived at the

Springs Police Department early that morning to pick

up prisoner BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR. DeSK Sergeant MILE

advised that Deputy REYUN departed Ocean Springs at

approximately 10:00 AM, that date, with WILSON en route to

54*

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 440

---

## Page 441

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

REPORTING OFFICE

JACKSON

TITLE OF CASE

OFFICE OF ORIGIN

MEMPHIS

JAMES EARL RAY, aka;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

DATE

INVESTIGATIVE PERIOD

9/19/78

8/23/78

REPORT MADE BY

SA WILLIAM E. BOOTH, JR.

CHARACTER OF CASE

CR - CONSPIRACY (B)

TYPED BY

bal

REFERENGE:

Jackson report of SA WILLIAM E. BOOTH, JR., dated 9/12/78.

-RUC--

ACCOMPLISHMENTS CLAIMED

FINES

SAVINGS

APPROVED

COPIES MADE:

4 - Bureau (44-38861)

3 - Memphis (44-1987 Sub M)

Jackson 62-phis, Tenn.)

SPECIAL AGENT

IN CHARGE

I NONE

RECOVERIES

ACQUIT-CASE HAS BEEN:

PENDING OVER ONE YEAR EYES SNO

PENDING PROSECUTION

OVER SIX MONTHS

MYES LINO

62

DO NOT WRITE IN SPACES BELOW

S44

197

Searched

Serialized DYle

Indexed Ols

Filed-

Dissemination Record of Attached Report

Notations

Agency

Request Recd.

Date Fwd.

How Fwd.

By

COVER PAGE

013-16-83489-1

OPO

• NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 441

---

## Page 442

UNITEN STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

DERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION O

Copy to:

1 - USA, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

Report of:

SA WILLIAM E. BOOTH, JR.

Date:

SEPTEMBER 19, 1978

Field Office File #:

Title:

62-544

JAMES EARL RAY;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. - VICTIM

JACKSON

Office:

Bureau File #:

44-38861

Character:

CIVIL RIGHTS - CONSPIRACY

sister of BURGESS AUDIE WILSON, JR.,

emphatically stated on 8/23/t8, that she did not contact her

in the recent

-RUC-

DETAILS:

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to your agency; it and its contents

are not to be distributed outside your agency.

I U.S. GPO:1975-0-575-841

• NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 442

---

## Page 443

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

9/19/78

Mrs. CHRISTINE (LEON) GUNTHARP, Route 1, Box 36,

• Fulton, Mississippi, was recontacted, at

which time she was

advised of the official identity of the interviewing Agent.

She was advised specifically that the purpose of this interview

was to resolve a statement attributed

to her brother, BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., to the effect that GUNTHARP's brother indi-

cated that a sketch of a suspect in the DI. MARTIN LUTHER KING,

JR., murder case, which was allegedly shown on television

recently, was almost an exact likeness of WILSON.

GUNTHARP

was advised that WILSON said his sister (GUNTHARP) telephoned

WILSON in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, after the sketch was

allegedly shown on television, saying that the sketch looked

exactly like him.

concerning the above matter, MrS. GUNIHARP Stated

emphatically that she did not contact her brother, "BILL"

WILSON,

in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, in the recent past

concerning her alleged recognition of a likeness to him with

regard to a sketch of the killer of MARTIN LUTHER KING, which

supposedly was shown

• on television.

Interviewed on

8/23/78

Fulton, Mississippi

- File #Jackson 62-544

SA DONALD H. GREENE:

bal

Date dictated

9/19/78

2*

i ache t contain either recent be distin cod lusion out es Fay. ' is the property of the FBi and is loaned bo,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 443

---

## Page 444

[

üi Badi. AT 10 LA

11112605123

ZHY EDDLE

i 1931237 220 79

FU DIRECTOR FEI (63-1173,00)

TO FEI SIRINGHAN ROUTINE

FOI JACKSJK ROUTINE

FEI ATLANTA ROUTINE

FRI NEY URLEAVE ROUTINE

FBI LUS ANGELES ROUTINE

BT

UNCLAS E FTO

MOUSE SELECI COMMITTEE ON ASSASSIMATIONS (HISCA)

BUREAU DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 26, 1075.

ThE hECA, 'HICh IS INVESTIGATING THE ASSASSINATIOI OF

JOH. F. KERNEDY AID MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., RENUESTED BY

LETTER DATED SEPTE. PER 12, 1978, ACCESS IO ALL BUREAU FILE

MATERIAL AS VELL AS MATERIAL FRO.I THE FIELD OFFICES OF

BIRMINGHAM, JACHSON, ATLANTA, NEW ORLEANS AND LOS ANGELES,

ON THE CITIZENS COUNCIL OF AMERICA FOR THE YEARS 1967-1968.

IT IS TO BE NOTED THAT THE CITIZENS COUNCIL OF AMERICA IS A

101-544-98

gh K

Bukep 9/24/7.8

00: Bureau

#Y

SEr 19

Wants

3748

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 444

---

## Page 445

PAGE TWO DE HO 0141 UNCLAS IF I O

SEPARATE ORGANIZATION FROM THE WHITE CITIZENS COUNCIL

RECIPIENT OFFICES FURMISH FBI HEADOUARTERS TWO COPIES OF

ANY COIMUNICATION MEETING ABOVE CRITERIA. ALL COPIES SHOULD

BE CLEARLY LEGIBLE ALD SHOULD BE SENT BY REGISTERED MAIL,

MAILED TO THE ATTENTION OF THE CORGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT,

RECORDS MAKAGEIENT DIVISION.

BT

7141

WIM:

is

NW 65994 Bocid:32989768 Page 445

---

## Page 446

FD-302 (Rev. 11-27-70)

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Date of transcription

9/19/78

Mrs. CHRISTINE (LEON) GUNTHARP, Route 1, Box 36,

Fulton, Mississippi,

was recontacted, at which time she was

advised of the official identity of the interviewing Agent.

She was advised specifically that the purpose of this interview

was to resolve a statement attributed to her brother, BURGESS

AUDIE WILSON, JR., to the effect that GUNTHARP's brother indi-

cated that a

sketch of a suspect in the Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING,

IR., murder case, which was allegedly shown on television

recently, was almost an exact likeness of WILSON.

GUNTHARP

was advised that WILSON

said his sister (GUNTHARP) telephoned

WILSON in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, after the sketch was

allegedly shown on television, saying that the sketch lookec

exactly like him.

Concerning the above matter, Mrs. GUNTHARP stated

emphatically that she did not contact her brother, "BILL"

WILSON, In Ocean Springs, Mississippi, in the recent past

concerning her alleged recognition of a likeness to him with

regard to a sketch of the killer of MARTIN LUTHER KING, which

supposedly was shown on television.

Interviewed on

8/23/78

Fulton, Mississippi

- File #Jackson 62-544 - 19

SA DONALD H. GREENE:

bal

by

9/19/78

Date dictated

This cust contains onther econot to be distrat con lusion so the . It is the property of the Bl and is loand to,

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 446

---

## Page 447

=7-35 (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

!.. Teletype

(7 F'acsimile

-*Airtel

FBI

Approved:

PRECEDENCE:

CLASSIFICATION:

17 Immediate

I TOP SECRET

• Priority

1 SECRET

_ Koutine

CONFIDENTIAL

EFTO

I CLEAR

Date

9/26/78)

pra-

TO:

DIREGTOR, FBI (62-117290)

ATT:

CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT,

RECORDS MANAGEMENT DIVISION

FROM:

SAG, JACKSON (52-544) (RUC.)

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE

ON ASSASSINATIONS (HSCA)

Re FBIHQ teletype, dated 9/19/78, captioned

as above.

enclosed, under separate cover, are two Xerox

copies of

documents from indicated Jackson files:

IN 157t8

(CITIZENS COUNCIL OF AMERICA) (Bufile 105-46604)

(1) 45 serials numbered 314-357. It is noted that

two serials ara numbered 338.

(2)

21 exhibits numbered 1A-37 (two separate pamphlets);

1A-43 - 1A-61

IN 157-59

GREATER LOS ANGELES CITIZENS COUNCIL

1105-34231

3

serials numbered 24-26

JN 15/-521

(ASSOCIATION OF CITIZENS COUNCILS OF MISSISSIPPI)

• BUtTIEV 105-34237- 33)

62-544-100

8

serials numbered 526-533

Searched

IN 157-179g

One

Ferialised Olen

Indaried

sarial numbered 23

Filed_

"CONFIDENTIAL MATERIAL ATTACHED"

3 • Bureau (RM)

1 - Package Copy (Enc. 268)

EX- Jackson

JAW/bal (4)

DO NOT DESTROY

Transmitted

tinder cands

Number antine

Destror

Waito An

not-

Daçeo-

---

## Page 448

JN 62-544

JN 157-1909

serials numbered

• 26-32

(2) 1A=1

JN 157-9577

lí2 serials numbered 1-12

iT 157-1802

8 serials numbered 158-165

JN 157-6614

serials numbered 8-24 (serial 15 skipped)

N 157-9335

2

serials numbered 1 and 2

IN 157-6721

Ohe serial numbered 10

IN 157-172

serials numbered 6 and 7

IN 157-180€

(1)

(2)

IN 157-1796

One serial numbered 1l

1A-A

serials numbered 34, 56, 57

2 exhibits numbered 1A-1, LA-2

It shold be noted that above Jackson file numbers

2%

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 448

---

## Page 449

indiegs Search Slip

negative

chockd

TO: CHIEF CLERK

Subject

CITIZENS COUNCIL DE AMERICA

Allases

Date

9/20/78

Social Seburity Account #

Address

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

Sex

•Male

Female

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

157-316*

2157-59*

Main Cilminal Case Files Only

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

I Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serlal Number

Restrict to Locallty of

Remarks

prodo copin Arevicle 314-352

DO NPI DESTROY FILE.

Preride copir faeria (24-26)

DO NOT DESTROY FILE

Requested by

Waits

Searched by

Consolidated by

Reviewed by

Squad

Extension

4

70

12/118

File No.

62-544

62-544-101

KH

SF?

118

Ni : identent

Not identical

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 449

File Revlew Symbols

• - Not Identifiable

• Unavailable reference

(date)

_(date)

$G.P.O. 1972-471-961

---

## Page 450

indices. Search Stir

9D-164: (Hev. 3-23-71

TO: CHIEF CLERK

Subject

Allases

litigers trinit

Address

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

X157-1/614*

4157-1742#

x157-1743

4157-1800€

{157-2258*

x157-9335

Date

Americ

/ Social Security Account #

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

Main Criminal Case Files Only

Restrict to Locality of

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serial Number

Remarks

sapo. subregent to.

1968

1 Provido send 617.

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

Info prior 15 1967

No info. fur year

1967+1868.

No info. fur Jean 1967 $ 1968.

Sex

•Male

•Female

DO NOT DESTROY FILE,

Requested by

Searched by

(date)

Consolidated by

(date)

Reviewed by

File Review Symbols

• NI

.,- Identical

- Not identical

¿ : Noavalable reference

NW 69994 Docld:32989768 Page 450

(date)

Squad

Extension

File No.

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 451

Indices Search Slip

5FD-1602 (Rev. 3-23-711

Date

TO: CHIEF CLERK

cities Cinct Amaica

Social Security Account #

Address

Birth Date

BIrthplace

Race

Sex

_Male

_ Female

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

X157-1808

*

X157-1694*

x257-658#

x157-184717

X 62-2-575

X157-527#

x105-86%

4157-9577*

X157-6711#

157-1799

XX157-18417

x157-1739#

X157-1835*

X157-15149

X157-1838*

x/57-1909

X157-1908*

Main Criminal Case Files Only

J Restrict to Locality of

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive (If no Main, Iist all Subversive References)

- Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serial Number

Manifo: for gers 196781948

No info. for to your 196) +1968

Renewed -Into. prior to 1967.

RemariS

NOT DESTROY

No info far years

1962+1968

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

I resile 526-533 - Resene reLA

E5 1967.

сиверти

Prrido copier f seriali (1-12)

1 Provida cepin of seize 10

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

No info fa 196211968.

11

No info far year

1967+1568

DESTROY

painfo fur yesm

1962+1968.

1 Pride ciner 8 seuch (26-32) IDDANOT DESTROY FILE

No info. fur yeu

1967+1968

Searched by

-

(date)

Consolidated by

(date)

Revlewed by

_(date)

-

File Review Symbols

Identical

Ni - Not identical

- Not identifiable

U = Unavalable reference

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 451

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 452

Indices Search Slip

y DN160I(Fev. 3-43-71)

Date

TO: CHIEF CLERK

Subject

Aliases

citizens Council of Ameida

Social Security Account #

9-21-78.

Address

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

Sex

•Male

•Female

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

1 Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

X157-1690

X157-1856*

X157-454*

X157-5958*%

X157-658*

X157-1823*

X157-1840#

X157-2403*

X157-1847€

X157-6614*

x157-18821

X157-1795*

X157-1799

X157-1798°

X105-86*

X157-18545*

1571904

Requested by

Main Criminal Case Files Only

Restrict to Locality of

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

- Main Criminal (If no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serlal Number

Remarks

No info, far gears 1967+1968 DO

1.07 DISTROY FILE.

DO NOT DESTROY PEN:

No sinfo far 1967-1968

11

11 11

11

Revered - Into press to 1967

Nainfo fur yeaus 196711968.

Do info for

1942H/968

11

11 " "1

1l

1 Provido copies of seriolo (8 -24) DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

No info fa 1967+1568.

No info. fa 1967+1968.

V Provide copier of, reial 23

DO NOT DESTROY FILE,

Noib-fayem 1967+1968.

Info: se Drew couns citzine cornal, noticello, citremon

serich-Info perar I 19602.

Re-swent, min

citients coumit

Renno - Info. prise ta 1567.

Squad

Extension

File No.

Searched by

(date)

Consolidated by

(date)

Reviewed by

_(date)

File Review Symbols

Identical

Nt = Not identical

Not identiflable

U - Unavailable reference

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 452

FBI/DOS

---

## Page 453

Indices Search Slip

fF D-:66: (Rev. 3-23-711

Date

TO: CHIEF CLERK

Subject

Allases

Cityens

Social Security Account #

Address

Birth Date

Birthplace

Race

Sex

[Male

[Female

Exact Spelling

All References

Main Subversive Case Files Only

Subversive References Only

File & Serial Number

1157-1692*

*

1157-1693

1157-1883*

(157-50287

1157-717*

1157-18377

1157-1886*

1157-590X*

1157-1801*

11521825*

1157-1896%

1157-1886€

1157-1798*

1157-1674*

1157-5796*

1157-1789

1152-1807

it

Requested by

Main Criminal Case Files Only

Criminal References Only

Main Subversive (If no Main, list all Subversive References)

Main Criminal (I{ no Main, list all Criminal References)

Remarks

File & Serial Number

To info fo year

No info. fa yeurs

1967+1968

1962+1968.

11

_ Restrict to Locality of

Remarks

DO NOT LISTROY E

Rainfo. for yea

19k7+1968.

Tho info fur yes.

1967+1968.

11

1)

DO NOT DESTROY FEE

No info. fur year

1967+1968.

K Previce copen of sevil 158-165

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

No info, fa 1967t1965

11

-11

1 Pezy de cigun of re

al 11 and It/

DO NOT DESTROY FILE.

No info for your

1962+1968

Do info fer years

1962+1968.

1 Pruile copin A serial 34,56,52 + 1A1, LANE NOT DESTROY FILE.

No itto fa 1967+1968

No info, fu yeun 19678 19650

Extension

File No.

Searched by

(date)

Consolidated by

(date)

Revlewed by

(date)

File Review Symbols

Identical

Ni - Not identical

Not identifiable

U - Unavallable reierence

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 453

FBI/DOJ

---

## Page 454

AIRTEL

10/2/78

To:

SACS,

Birmingham

(44-1740)

Chicago

(44-1114)

Dallas

(44- 2649)

Houston

(44-1509)

Jackson

(62-544)

Kansas City

(44-760)

Memphis

(44-1987 sub. 1)

Oklahoma City

(44-686)

Pittsburgh: (441572)

San Antonio

(44-1242)

St. Louis (44-775)

Director, FBI (44-38861)

FrON ::

MURKIN

RE:

ALLECATION BY BURGESS AUDIE WILSON

Copies of all reports from recipient offices

have been received and have been forwarded to the

Department.

Based on the extensive investigation conducted

re this Burgess Audie Wilson allegation including the

fact investigation determined he did not have access to the

airplane in April of 1968, nor to a vehicle in Missouri

as he claimed, the Department toquested no furthex

investigation re the Wilson allegation.

Promptiy report any additional information to

FEINQ volunteered re the Wilson allegation; however,

conduct no active investigation unless instructed by

EBINO as directed by the beparement..

42-544,

102

SEARCHED

INDEXED

SERIALIZED CL

_FILED_

OCT 4

1973

FBI-JACKSONN

Warto

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 454

---

## Page 455

2118932

20/3/72

30.

(ã4-1740)

Chloago:

(64: 1114)

(46-2643)

Beneator.

(A4: 1308)

Jackoou

•1062.344)

Borons City

046-740)

Marphis

166 2907 sub 23)

(46- 630)

Fictaburge

(44. 1572)

Eso antente

(44-1242)

St. 4024g

(16- 775)

Parcetor,

722

(45-306622

have sta

A2 LIS

47209

copian of all regoras from reciptune occices

zeceived

and have band Sorcardad or the

Be sai

on ene enronaire lowestigatton

20 1AAG

Burgate

Milaoo Ollegation.

debercinod he did not have ascoad to

airplane

Agail: 01

1060: not 2o s rohiolo la dissours

28.19

elated -

tas. Eopariment

regtestos no

tarcher

Livestigatdon

3.400 M1180м 61209466024

naticional infosestico

2o the Wilson allegation: bowever,

Do estive

Savostizataon

gazud as directod by She

undess toasterobad by

Departnest.

42-544-102

SEARCHED

INDEXED_

SERIALIZED

__FILED.

OCT 4

1973

FBI-JACKSOIN

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 455

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## Page 456

0-$ (Rev. 7-27-76)

TRANSMIT VIA:

airtel

PRECEDENCE:

CLASSIFICATION:

DATE: October 2, 1978

TO: SAC, Jackson (62-544)

From: Director, FBI (62-117290)

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS

U. S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (HSCA)

Re Jackson airtel, 9/26/78.

Enclosed for Jackson is one copy of "The Citizen"

dated November, 1968, which was included with Xerox copies

of other

documents.

Enclosurel

for LEFT MARGIN.)

(Do not type

BEYOND THIS MARGIN.)

316-1A60

157-

42-544-103

(Do not type below this line.)

1973

fortunatas

Ivanto

wherel.

FBI/DOS

MW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 456

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## Page 457

FD-36 (Rev_ 5-22-78)

TRANSMIT VIA:

Teletype

_ Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

EX Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

I SECRET

7 CONFIDENTIAL

7 UNCLAS EF TO

LE UNCLAS

Date 10/16/78

FM JACKSON (62-544)

TO DIRECTOR (44-38861) PRIORITY 1117Z

ATTENTION CONGRESSIONAL INQUIRY UNIT, JEH BUILDING

MEMPHIS (44-1987-SUB-M) PRIORITY 1724Z

UNCLAS

HOUSE SELECT COMMITTEE ON ASSASSINATIONS; MURKIN.

RE JACKSON AIRTEL TO BUREAU AND MEMPHIS, APRIL 18, 1969.

FOR INFO OF BUREAU, THE ALCORN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT,

CORINTH, MS., IS IN RECEIPT OF A LETTER DATED OCTOBER 10, 1978,

FROM JAMES EARL RAY, IN WHICH RAY STATES THAT UNTIL "JUST RECENTLY"

HE ASSUMED THAT AUTHORITIES KNEW THAT HE HAD REGISTERED IN A MOTEL

IN CORINTH, MS., ON APRIL 1, 1968. IN THE LETTER, RAY REQUESTS

THE ASSISTANCE OF THE ALCORN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT AND ANY

RECORDS THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE AT THAT DEPARTENT TO VERIFY THAT

HE AND/OR A 1966 MUSTANG BEARING ALA. LICENSE B8993, REGISTERED TO

ERIC S. GALT, WAS SEEN IN CORINTH, MS., ON APRIL 1, 1968. RAY

1 - Jackson

82-574-104

DHG/bal (1)

Searched_

Serialized.

Indexed

GReeNe

Approved: 1K/748

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 457

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## Page 458

FD-36 (Rev, 5-22-78)

TRANSMIT VIA:

[ Teletype

• Facsimile

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

I SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

D UNCLAS EFT O

• UNCLAS

Date

PAGE TWO DE UN 000I UNCLAS JN 62-544

ATTACHED TO HIS LETTER A SKETCH OF HIS RECOLLECTION AS TO THE

LOCATION OF THE MOTEL IN WHICH HE REPORTEDLY STAYED APRIL 1, 1968.

INVESTIGATION CONCERNING THE ABOVE DESCRIBED MUSTANG AUTO AND

RAY AND HIS KNOWN ALIASES WAS CONDUCTED IN ALCORN COUNTY, MS., AT

LOCAL MOTELS DURING THE COURSE OF INVESTIGATION IN CONNECTION WTIH

THE KILLING OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING. REFERENCED AIRTEL DISCLOSED

THAT CONTACT WAS MADE WITH ALL MOTELS LOCATED IN CORINTH, MS., AND

VICINITY AND NO RECORD WAS LOCATED UNDER SUBJECT'S TRUE NAME, KNOWN

ALIASES AND ALABAMA LICENSE IN CONNECTION WITH CAR DRIVEN BY

SUBJECT.

LHM TO INCLUDE COPY OF RAY'S OCTOBER 10, 1978, LETTER TO THE

ALCORN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT WILL BE FORWARDED TO THE BUREAU.

BT

#0001

-NNNN

Approved:

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 458

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## Page 459

In Reply, Please Refer to

File No.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Post Office Box 1450

Jackson, Mississippi

39205

November 28, 1978

JAMES EARL RAY;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

VICTIM

CIVIL RIGHTS - CONSPIRACY

On October 12, 1978,

Edwin B. Coleman, Sheriff,

Alcorn county, corinth, Mississippi,

contacted the

Federal Bureau of Investigation advising

that on that date, he received a letter from

James bart Ray, postmarked Petros, lennessee, Lip God€

3/845, requesting that the Alcorn

County Sheriff's

epartment furnish any recoras they may have to indicat

hat a 1966 Mustang displaying Alabama License B8993

observed in Alcorn County, Corinth, Mississippi,

April 1, 1968..

In his letter, Ray claims to have been

registered a a Corinth motel on April 1, 1968.

As reflected in the files of the Federal

Bureau of Investigativn, extensive investigation

concerning Eric S. Galt and a 1966 Mustang registered

in the Galt name, was conducted subsequent to the

3 - Bureau (44-38861)

- Memphis

(44-198/ SUB M

62-544-105

Searched

Forintic:

lu

/ - Jackson (62-544) (RUC

DHG/ diw

HoW.

Filed

248

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions

of the FBI.

It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to

your agency; it and its

contents are not to be distributed

outside your agency.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 459

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## Page 460

JAMES EARL RAY;

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING; JR. -

VICTIM

'he entire scope of this investigation is a matter o

ecord in the FBI investigative reports

Since all logical investigation concerning

this matter has been concluded, no additional inves-

tigative effort in response to Ray's letter is being

pursued

at this time.

A photocopy of the envelope, letter,

and

attached diagram is attached hereto.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 460

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## Page 461

ALCORN COUNTY SHERIFF

P. O. BOX 1573

CORINTH, MISSISSIPPI 38834

DEPT.

EDWIN B. COLEMAN, SHERIFF

TERRY W. DOLES, CHIEF DEPUTY

October 13, 1978

Donald Green

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Tupelo, Mississippi 38801

Ref: Enclosed letter

Dear Don,

On October: 12, 1978, I recieved a letter from James Earl Ray requesting that

this Department try to locate a motel that he stayed In of April 1, 1968. The

motel is supposed to be on Highway 72 in Corinth. I checked with the Southern

Motel and they have no record. I also checked with the Corona Plaza. They have

no record but the ownership has changed hands several times since 1968 and the

present owner is trying to locate the old records.

Enclosed you will find a copy of the letter and diagram of the location of

the motel. Also enclosed is a message from the National Sheriff's Association

addressed to Mr. Ray.

Do you think there is any reason why we should check any further into this matter

since you checked all the motels in 1968?

If we can be of any assistance to you in the future, please feel free to call

on us.

With kindness and best regards,

edwin

Edwin B. Coleman, Sheriff

EBC;bet

cc

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 461

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## Page 462

i..:

85,j-55477

Petros, '0: 7845.

~.

оCT:0

1978

078:5

=...

Sheriff Edwin E. Coleman

Alcorn County Sheriff's Dept.

Corinth,

Hisrisaidyi...=5834.

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 462

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## Page 463

Mr. Ediin B. Colenan

• Sheriff, Alcorn County

Corinth, Missis:ipri. 38834.

10 October 1978

James E. Rey 465477

B.M.P.

Petros, IN.37845.

Deir Sheriff Coleman:

This letter pertrins to the Dr. Martin Luther King jr homicide and

rolnted matter as follows:

On april 1, 1968, I checked into a Motel in Corinth, Mississippi, and

departed the following morning. Until just recently I as umed the

authorities knew this consequently I never asked anyone to check into

the mutter. No: I learn the authorities belfieve I.was else where April 1st.

My reason(s) for this letter is to enquire if your of ice has a record,

through perhaps : routine check of cars registered in Motels on the

niorimentioned arte, of thi rutomobile I was driving. It was a 1966 Mustang

registered under the nome of Eric S. G-lt; Alabam: tre no. B 8393.

11so, "s uming liotels have to be licensed by the city or county in

Missisnippi, vould either of thoes Governments require Motels to retain,

or furnish them to rotoin, a list of the Motel quests? possibly for tax

purposes.

sin: lly ny other informition-bout the rbove subject from your ofrice

would be very mush appreciated, such as the 1968 Owner of the Motel I

stayed in ( sec disgrom

attached), providing the Dingrom can be mitched

with tic Hotel.

Sincerely:

games

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 463

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## Page 464

2. Not sure

tot sure about restauront

about restaurant or JusT

how sor from motel, Restaurant. EueN

With motel I bellèuo. Iflad breatsaso there

Restaurant

sidedoor

TaBles

West side of townT

Main Highway,

DiP IN HIGhway

Ter

-

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 464

Pass (appAreNtly A Highway

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## Page 465

1'",

TO :

M.

ES.S A G

Tues Ki Ray #654T7

Petros,, enfissad: 37345

E

R, E

DATE i•

DATE OCiOhar 7, 1978

Per your rearnt requesic the follovin

ine the curcunt shoritie in the aseos

which you mercione?:

1; Sheriff. Ven Hard

Morgantcounty Sherisf's Dept:

Lecture laband

35601,

i, Sionife J. j Aldridge

35674

3. Shocill Bivin 3. Colenra

corinth, Lississipsy

138331

cerainlike

Form 4-NTSUO The Drawine Roard InC, Bon 30S. Dallan Tones ABE

ww?.

SIGNED

RECIPIENT KEEPTHIS COPY, RETURN WHITE COPY TO LENDER

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 465

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## Page 466

x Airtel

11/27/78

TO:

DIRECTOR, FBI

FROM:

SAG, JACKSON (62-544) (RUC)

JAMES EARL RAY, aka;

OR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -

VICTIM

CR - CONSPIRACY (B)

00:

I-EMPHIS

Re Jackson teletype to FBIHQ, dated 10/16/78.

Enclosed for the Bureau are three copies of

one LFM captioned and dated as above.

Two copies of

the LHM are being furnished to Memphis.

Since no further investigation remains in the

Jackson Division, this matter is being RUC'd.

2 - Bureau (Enc. 3)

hemphis (44-1987

{- Jackson

DHG/ dù w

(5) '

SUB M) (Enc. 2)

1254-193

in.

§ NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 466

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## Page 467

Mr. Edwin B. Coleman

Sheriff, Alcorn County

Corinth, Missis: inni. 38834-

10 October 1978

James E. Rey #65477

B.M.P.

Petros, IN. 37845.

Dear Sheriff Coleman:

This letter pertains to the Dr. Martin Luther King jr homicide and

related matter as follows:

On April 1, 1968, I checked into & Motel in Corinth, Mississippi, and

departed the following morning. Until just recently I as umed the

authorities knew this consequently I never asked anyone to check into

the motter. Now I learn the authorities belgieve Inwas else where April 1st.

My reason(s) for this letter is to enquire if your of ice has a record,

through perhaps : routine check of cars registered in Motels on the

aforumentioned arte, of thi rutomobile I was driving. It was a 1966 Mustang

registered under the name of Eric S. Grit; Alabama t: & no. B 8993.

11so, 'suming Hotels have to be licensed by the city or county in

Missis-iopi, would either of thoes Governments require Motels to retain,

or furnish them to rctain, a list of the Motel quests? possibly for tax

purposes.

Fin: lly : ny other informition-bout the -bove subject from your ofrice

would be very mush appreciated, such as the 1968 Oiner of the Motel I

stayed in

( see disgrom

attached), providing the Dingrom can be motched

with the Motel.

Sincerely:

games

62-544-1871

KI

M0. 1978

. NW 65994 Docld: 32989768 Page 467.

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## Page 468

+0000140917

/BI607

2. Not sure

about restaurant or tust.

how sar from motel. Restaurant EueiN

with motel i bellèut. Iflad breatsast there.

Restourant

side poor

79B12S

motel

west side of tows?

pi9b0m

DiP iN HIGhway

Mark Highway

pass (apparently A Highwau

N

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 468

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## Page 469

MESS

A GE :

REPLY

7

TO

DATE

etros, JenA:

DATE "i"

BY

Form N-N73U @The Drawing Board, Ina, Box 505, Dallas, Texas 75221

SIGNED

RECIPIENT KEEP THIS COPY, RETURN WHITE COPY TO SENDER

NW 65994 Docid:32989768 Page 469

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## Page 470

UN 62-544

ALCORN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPT.

P. O. BOX 1573

CORINTH, MISSISSIPPI 38834

EDWIN B. COLEMAN, SHERIFF

TERRY W. DOLES, CHIEF DEPUTY

PHONE (601) 286-5521

286-5522

JAIL 286-3952

October 13, 1978

Donald Green

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Tupelo, Mississippi 38801

Ref: Enclosed letter

Dear Don,

On October. 12, 1978, I recieved a letter from James Earl Ray requesting that

this Department try to locate a motel that he stayed in on April 1, 1968. The

motel is supposed to be on Highway 72 in Corinth. I checked with the Southern

Motel and they have no record. I also checked with the Corona Plaza. They have

no record but the ownership has changed hands several times since 1968 and the

present owner is trying to locate the old records.

Enclosed you will find a copy of the letter and diagram of the location of

the motel, Also enclosed is a message from the National Sheriff's Association

addressed to Mr. Ray.

Do you think there is any reason why we should check any further into this matter

since you checked all the motels in 1958?

If we can be of any assistance to you in the future, please feel free to call

on us.

With kindness and best regards,

dd.

Edwin B. Coleman, Sheriff

62-544-108

KA KA.

jis 1978

EBC;bet

cc

enc.

_ NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 470

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## Page 471

102-544-109

+

FEB - 5 1979

FBI-JACKSON

057-.

1...

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 471

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## Page 472

In Reply, Please Rejer 20

File No.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

Dallas, Texas

February 1, 1979

ASSASSINATION OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

CIVIL RIGHTS

On January 30, 1979, an anonymous woman caller

telephonically furnished the following information to

Special Agent Udo H. Specht, FBI, Dallas, Texas:

"she stated that an individual by the name of

C. H. Wison, residing at Boya, Texas, in a brick house

on the road between Boyd and Azle, Texas, might have been

responsible or somehow involvea in the assassination of

Martin Luther King, JI.

She described Wilson as a white

male, 6', 180

pounds, 51 years of age, and a pipe welder

by trade.

Wilson was involved in Ku Klux Klan activities

and lived in Greenville, Mississippi in 1968 and prior to

that.

Prior to the assassination of King, Wilson allegedly

stated that he would kill or was going to kill Martin Luther

King.

wilson

and another man, whom she would not identify,

were in Memphis the day King was assassinated. At that time,

Wilson owned a relatively new white Ford Mustang bearing

Mississippi license plates.

After Wilson returned to

Greenville, Mississippi, from Memphis, Tennessee, he hid the

white Mustang

• for approximately one month.

The caller stated that Wilson is an alcoholic and

was during that time.

He was drinking two and three quarts a

especially. it he ses been deinking.

The caller stated that Wilson is mean and capable of murder,

The caller would not identify the other man who was in

Memphis with Wilson until she found out somehow that someone is

investigating what she is saying.

On January 30, 1979, a telephone company information

operator advised that a c. H.

Wilson is listed as residing in

Boyd, Texas, telephone number (817) 433-5105.

The Dallas, Texas FBI indices to investigatory records

did not reflect any information identifiable with C. H. Wilson.

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of

the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to your agency;

it and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

FBI/DOJ

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 472

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## Page 473

FD-36 (Rev. 5-22-78)

TRANSMIT VIA:

• Teletype

D Facsimile

Airtel

FBI

PRECEDENCE:

• Immediate

• Priority

• Routine

CLASSIFICATION:

• TOP SECRET

• SECRET

• CONFIDENTIAL

D UNCLAS EF TO

D UNCLAS

Date

2/1/79

TO :

DIRECTOR, FBI

FROM:

SAC, DALLAS (44-2649)

(C)

SUBJECT: ASSASSINATION OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

(MURKIN)

CIVIL RIGHTS

00: MEMPHIS

Enclosed herewith for the Bureau are five copies

of an IHM dated and captioned as above.

One copy of same is being designated for Memphis

and Jackson.

-,:

- Bureau (Encs - 5)

- Jackson (Encs - 1)bf

- Memphis (Encs - 1)

1 - Dallas

UHS/mpc

(6)

Tourn

62-544-110

FEB - 5 1979

FEI-JACKSON

Approved: -

NW 65994 Docld:32989768 Page 473

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