Armed Robbery in Crystal River: 'Texas Billy' Caught After Dramatic Chase!

101 SE Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL, USA - In a concerning incident that unfolded on July 10, 2025, Citrus County witnessed an armed bank robbery that quickly drew the attention of law enforcement and the community alike. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) arrested 54-year-old William Burton Clarkson, known as ‚Texas Billy‘, shortly after he allegedly brandished a handgun and demanded approximately $2,000 from a teller at the Capital City Bank located on Highway 19 in Crystal River. The robbery occurred just before 10 a.m., a notoriously busy time for such crimes, as statistics show that most bank robberies occur in the morning hours, particularly between 9 AM and 11 AM, with Fridays being a prime target day for robbers.ABC Action News reports that Clarkson’s swift identification came after investigators released surveillance images to the public, leading to an influx of Crime Stopper tips.

With the help of a vigilant community, detectives tracked Clarkson to the Scooter Haven RV Park in Inglis. There, he was discovered with his truck displaying Texas plates, which further confirmed local suspicions. In an interesting twist, evidence suggested that Clarkson may have initially attempted to enter GTE Financial bank, posing as a utility worker before executing the robbery at Capital City Bank. This strategy is not uncommon; it’s a tactic employed by some robbers to create a façade that allows them easier entry into a bank under less suspicious circumstances.

Fleeing and Surrender

After being identified, Clarkson’s subsequent actions led him to surrender voluntarily at a food mart in Levy County. This came about thanks to a witness who confronted him and assisted local deputies in the surrender process. Surveillance footage captured Clarkson at the scene, wearing a distinctive outfit consisting of a white shirt, blue jeans, boots, and sunglasses, along with his long hair pulled back into a ponytail. Such details aided in the rapid identification and location of the suspect.Fox 13 News highlighted how the CCSO was quick in their response, emphasizing their dedication to maintaining safety in the community.

As for the legal ramifications, Clarkson has been charged with robbery using a firearm and is currently being held without bond at the Levy County Jail. This action underscores the serious nature of bank robberies, which have seen a noteworthy trend with an estimated 5,000 occurring annually across the United States. Violent confrontations during robberies are disturbingly common; around 50 incidents in recent years involved serious threats or acts of violence, while approximately 30 hostages were taken, according to data from Criminal Laws.

Even as this case progresses, the Citrus County community remains on alert. Local officials are urging residents to report any suspicious activity, emphasizing that community vigilance can significantly aid in deterring such criminal acts. Anyone with additional information about Clarkson or the events surrounding the robbery is encouraged to reach out to CCSO or Crime Stoppers of Citrus County. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of crime, highlighting how intertwined a community can become in the efforts to uphold safety and justice.