Crime
2 injured in shooting at Lipscomb Community Center in Melbourne, Florida
A tragic shooting incident occurred at the Lipscomb Community Center located on Monroe Street in Melbourne.
Two individuals sustained critical injuries and were immediately transported to a nearby hospital.
The perpetrators responsible for the shooting are currently at large.
“My fiancé and I were on a FaceTime call when we heard the sound of gunshots. I had left my phone outside on a chair while I went inside to check on the soup I was cooking. When I returned, my fiancé was screaming at me to grab the phone and go inside. He told me that he had heard at least 30 shots, possibly from multiple firearms, and that people were screaming. It was a horrifying experience. I’m praying for everyone involved. That park is a popular destination on Saturdays, especially for families who come to watch sports games.”
Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident and have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.