Crime
Suspect Fires at Troopers Following Pursuit and Crash on I-85 Exit Ramp in Durham
DURHAM, N.C. — A high-risk incident unfolded in Durham on Tuesday evening involving a vehicle pursuit, crash, and exchange of gunfire.
According to preliminary information, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) was engaged in a pursuit with a suspect vehicle.
The chase came to a dramatic end when the suspect crashed on an exit ramp along Interstate 85.
Shortly after the collision, shots were reportedly fired.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect discharged a firearm, prompting a response from law enforcement at the scene.
It has not yet been confirmed if any injuries occurred during the exchange.
Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the area, securing the scene and launching a full investigation.
The exit ramp where the crash occurred was temporarily closed as authorities conducted a detailed assessment.
Details regarding the suspect’s identity, potential charges, and motive for the pursuit remain under investigation.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is expected to release additional information as the inquiry progresses.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area due to ongoing police activity.
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.