Willie Arnold Billy Ryman III was a 38-year-old Port Arthur firefighter with 20 years of service who was killed on the night of February 6, 1998. He went to his sister’s home in Pear Ridge, Texas, to check on his nieces and encountered Elroy Chester, who was actively assaulting the children. Ryman intervened and during the confrontation was shot and killed.

Elroy Chester was arrested and charged with Ryman’s capital murder. The case deeply affected Ryman’s family and the Port Arthur community; he is remembered as a dedicated firefighter and loving father. A Port Arthur Fire Department building was later named in his memory.

If anyone knew Willie, his family, or has information about that night, please share what you know.