Crime
13-year-old boy killed in Bessemer shooting
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the identity of the victim has not been publicly released.
A tragic shooting in Bessemer on Friday night claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy.
Detective Justin Burmeister of the Bessemer Police Department reported that officers responded to a call just before 10 p.m. regarding a shooting in the 1200 block of 13th Street North.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the young victim, who had sustained gunshot wounds.
He was transported to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim was inside a residence when unknown suspect(s) fired into the home, striking him.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the identity of the victim has not been publicly released.
The Bessemer Police Department is actively investigating the case and seeking assistance from the community. Individuals with information related to this homicide are urged to contact the Bessemer Police Department’s tip line at 205-428-3541. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 205-254-7777.
Authorities are working diligently to identify the suspect(s) and bring justice to the grieving family.
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.