Crime
Charges filed in Manitowoc County against Jesse Vang and Katrina Baur in the death of Elijah Vue
Manitowoc County, WI – Authorities have announced charges against two individuals in connection with the tragic death of Elijah Vue, a young toddler who was previously reported missing from Two Rivers.
Jesse Vang, 39, the boyfriend of Elijah’s mother, Katrina Baur, faces the following charges:
- Physical abuse of a child, repeated acts causing death (felony)
- Hiding a corpse (felony)
- Obstructing an officer (misdemeanor)
Katrina Baur, 31, has been charged with:
- Chronic neglect of a child, consequence is death (felony)
- Neglecting a child, no harm and child < 6 years (felony)
- Resisting or obstructing an officer (misdemeanor) x2
Manitowoc County District Attorney Jacalyn LaBre stated, “This has been a complex investigation involving a meticulous review of hundreds of pages of police reports, video evidence, and other materials. The charges we have filed today reflect that diligent and thorough work.”
The charges against Vang and Baur come following an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Elijah’s disappearance and subsequent death. Vang had initially reported the toddler missing on February 20, 2024.
Previously, Vang and Baur had been charged with child neglect related to events prior to Elijah’s disappearance and death.
Elijah’s remains were tragically discovered on September 7, 2024.
Vang and Baur are scheduled to appear in court on Friday to face the newly filed charges.
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.