Crime
18-year-old Geary Lynch dead after shot in head in Escambia County
A 16-year-old male, who was also involved in the incident, sustained what deputies initially believed to be a gunshot wound to the leg.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation after a shooting on Monday night left one teenager dead and another injured.
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire in the 7900 block of Rouse Drive around 6:16 p.m. Deputies arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, at approximately 6:20 p.m.
Tragically, an 18-year-old male, identified by a friend as Geary Lynch, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Lynch, a young father, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 16-year-old male, who was also involved in the incident, sustained what deputies initially believed to be a gunshot wound to the leg. However, it was later determined that the injury was road rash, likely caused during the chaotic events surrounding the shooting.
Preliminary investigations suggest the incident stemmed from an argument between the two teens and individuals in a vehicle.
During the altercation, the suspects fired at the teens before fleeing the scene.
Additionally, deputies reported finding a stolen firearm in the possession of the 16-year-old during the investigation.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and investigators are actively working to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be reported by contacting the ECSO directly or through Crime Stoppers.
This incident highlights the urgent need for community cooperation in addressing violence and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
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.