Crime
Triple Homicide Suspect 56-year-old Shannon Box is in custody
UPDATE: Shannon Box is in custody.
Authorities in Wilkes County, Georgia, have launched a manhunt for a suspect connected to a triple homicide in Tignall.
The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Shannon Box, remains at large, prompting law enforcement to issue a “Be on the Lookout” (BOLO) alert.
Box is described as a white male standing 5’10” tall and weighing 174 pounds. He has brown hair and green eyes. While authorities do not have a confirmed description of his current clothing, they believe he may be traveling in a 2002 GMC Sierra pickup truck bearing Georgia license plate number YXA119.
Although his exact destination is unclear, investigators suspect he could be heading toward West Virginia.
Law enforcement agencies in neighboring states have been notified and are coordinating efforts to locate the suspect.
The public is urged to exercise extreme caution. Shannon Box is considered dangerous, and anyone who sees him or the vehicle should avoid approaching and immediately call 911 to report their observations.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and have not released additional details regarding the motive or the victims of the homicide. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow updates from local law enforcement.
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.