Crime
Russell County Deputy Joshua Phipps killed in the line of duty
Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene, and the community is mourning the loss of Deputy Phipps.
Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Phipps was tragically killed in the line of duty on Monday night, according to the Russell County Fiscal Court.
The incident occurred on Bluebird Drive in Russell County, involving a lone shooter.
Deputy Phipps was fatally shot while responding as backup during an active shooter incident. He was transported to Russell County Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
There is no ongoing threat to the public.
The region is mourning the loss of Russell County Deputy Josh Phipps, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on Monday. The city of Russell Springs was placed on lockdown following an active shooter situation.
While specific details about the incident are still being released, the Russell County Fiscal Court confirmed Deputy Phipps’ death around 9:40 PM. Phipps was originally from Adair County and the son of local residents Pam and Donnie Phipps.
Adair County Sheriff Josh Brockman traveled to Russell County to assist in the investigation and was among the officers who responded to Deputy Phipps’ aid.
Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene, and the community is mourning the loss of Deputy Phipps.
The body of Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Phipps is being escorted to the medical examiner’s office in Frankfort.
Emergency personnel along the route have planned to show their respects to the fallen officer as the convoy passes through.
Messages of condolence and support have poured in from local law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and the city of Russell Springs.
Attorney General Russell Coleman released the following statement tonight regarding Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Phipps:
“Tonight, Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Phipps ended his watch to his county and his Commonwealth. All Kentucky mourns his loss and honors his selfless sacrifice. Along with Deputy Phipps’ brothers and sisters in uniform across Kentucky and the nation, we send our prayers and condolences to his family and colleagues.”
“The full resources of the Office of the Attorney General and our Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are ready to support the Russell County Sheriff’s Office and this community during this tragic time.”
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.