Crime
44-year-old Percy Bowman Fatally Shot in Fairgrounds Neighborhood, Suspect Charged with Murder
ST. LOUIS, MO – Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal shooting in the Fairgrounds neighborhood as 44-year-old Percy Bowman of Hazelwood, Missouri.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD), officers from District 4 responded to a report of gunfire in the 4200 block of Peck Street at approximately 6:19 p.m. on March 15, 2025.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a crowd gathered around Bowman, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.
Following an investigation, police arrested 31-year-old Turley Smith, who has since been charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm in connection with Bowman’s death.
According to the probable cause statement, Smith arrived at a cookout where Bowman was present.
When Bowman questioned Smith’s presence, a verbal altercation ensued, escalating into a physical confrontation.
During the struggle, Smith allegedly took Bowman’s firearm and proceeded to shoot him multiple times while he was incapacitated and defenseless.
Court records indicate that Smith is a convicted felon, with a prior conviction dating back to February 18, 2014.
A witness at the scene identified him as the shooter, leading to his swift arrest.
Homicide detectives are continuing their investigation. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Homicide Division at (314) 444-5371.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477), where a reward may be available for information leading to further developments in the case.
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.