Wagoner Police Arrest Man In Connection With Murder Of His Uncle

Wagoner Police arrest a man in connection with his uncle's murder. George Smith was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon, but told News on 6 he’s innocent. 

“I’m innocent! Free George Smith!" Smith said to News on 6 as he was taken into custody.

He has been accused of killing his uncle, 69-year-old Jimmy Arthur. Arthur died in his home on April 9 after he was shot in the back of the head twice. 

In the arrest affidavit, investigators say Smith was inside the home when the shooting happened but did not call 911 until approximately 14 minutes later. The affidavit said instead that Smith attempted to remove or conceal the body.

The affidavit says that “Smith was in possession of a weapon matching the caliber of the suspected murder weapon, on the date of the murder, and lied to investigators about the same when interviewed.”

Investigators said they interviewed Smith several times about what happened that night. 

Smith originally claimed a man wearing all black and a mask was the one who shot Arthur. However, investigators said Smith's story and the evidence don't add up.  

Smith is a Cherokee citizen so his case will be handled in federal court. Investigators say Smith has not confessed to killing Arthur.