Crime
4 injured in shooting at North Carolina Central University
A series of shootings occurred on the campus of North Carolina Central University on Saturday night, October 26th, 2024.
The first incident took place around 7:43 PM, when shots were fired in the parking lot behind Debra Saunders-White Residence Hall.
No injuries were reported in this initial incident.
However, a second shooting occurred later that evening, around 8:59 PM, near the Student Services Building on Eagle Campus Drive.
Four individuals, including a North Carolina Central University student, were injured by gunfire. The victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the second shooting, the campus was placed on lockdown.
Law enforcement officers responded to the scene and conducted a thorough investigation.
While a suspect was arrested in connection with the first shooting, it remains unclear if any arrests have been made regarding the second incident.
The university has expressed its disappointment and concern over the violence that marred the homecoming weekend.
They have emphasized the importance of community safety and cooperation with law enforcement to address such incidents.
The investigation into both shootings is ongoing.
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.