Crime
Multiple people injured after vehicle crashes into JC Penney at Killeen Mall in Texas, suspect shot dead
The exact number of injured individuals is still being determined.
Killeen, TX – A police pursuit that began in Belton ended in tragedy at the Killeen Mall on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
The chase culminated in a fatal officer-involved shooting and multiple injuries to bystanders, according to authorities.
The incident unfolded when a high-speed chase initiated in Belton reached its conclusion at the southern entrance of the Killeen Mall, near the JCPenney store.
According to initial reports, the suspect drove the vehicle into the mall, causing significant damage and reportedly injuring several bystanders.
The exact number of injured individuals is still being determined.
Law enforcement personnel, including officers from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Killeen Police Department, confronted the suspect at the scene.
During the confrontation, a DPS trooper discharged their firearm, fatally wounding the suspect.
The identity of the suspect has not been disclosed, and authorities are actively investigating the series of events that led to this outcome.
Emergency responders, including the Killeen Fire Department, have been assisting at the scene.
The area has been cordoned off as officials conduct a joint investigation into the actions of the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and shooting.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the vicinity of the Killeen Mall while they process the scene and gather evidence.
Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Killeen Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
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.