Crime
3-year-old Marco Garza Jr killed after shooting at RV Park in Victoria
The Victoria Police Department regrets to inform the community that the 3-year-old child involved in the shooting incident on December 3, 2024, has sadly passed away from his injuries.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
At approximately 11:30 a.m., VPD officers responded to a residence in the 13,000 block of N. Navarro Street following reports of a shooting involving a young child, identified as Marco Garza Jr..
The child was initially transported to a local hospital with injuries of unknown severity.
This case remains an active investigation, and detectives are diligently working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Victoria Police Department will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
Crime
Suspect Who Shot and Killed Christian County Deputy Identified as Richard Bird
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.
