Former Maryville College wide receiver, William Riley Gaul, 18, was released from the Knox County Detention Facility on Monday after posting $1 million bail. Gaul is accused of stalking and murdering his cheerleader ex-girlfriend in November 2016.
Police say, Gaul became obsessed with Emma Walker, 16, following their break up. In October, unable to accept the split, Gaul began stalking her. On November 21, Gaul stole his grandfather’s gun and fatally shot the teen through the walls of her bedroom as she slept. Gaul was arrested at his Knoxville home on November 22, a day after the shooting.
On Wednesday, Gaul was indicted on seven criminal counts, including first-degree murder, especially aggravated stalking, tampering with evidence and employing a firearm during a dangerous felony. He was originally set to be arraigned on Monday (Jan. 30) but his court date was pushed to February 13.
Two weeks before Emma’s death, Gaul tweeted, “I’d do anything to have it all back.” Hours after Emma’s death, Gaul tweeted,“That’s my beautiful Emma. Rest easy now sweetheart. 1 Corinthians 13:8. Be sure to remind God about our verse.I love you.Forever and always.” His Twitter bio currently reads,“Living everyday through Emma Walker. I love you beautiful and I know you’re in a better place now.”
