2 Missouri Deputies Killed, 2 Others Wounded in Shootout with Suspect

Suspect also killed after hourslong manhunt following initial traffic stop

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Two Missouri deputies were killed, one during a traffic stop and the other in a subsequent shootout with the suspect. The suspected gunman, identified as Richard Bird, fled the scene and was later fatally shot by law enforcement after an hourslong manhunt involving over 100 officers. Two other deputies were also injured in the shootout, but their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face in the line of duty, as well as the challenges of apprehending armed and dangerous suspects. It also raises questions about officer safety protocols and the need for continued training and support for rural law enforcement agencies.

The details

According to authorities, the incident began with a traffic stop on State Highway 160 south of Highlandville, Missouri, where Deputy Gabriel Ramirez, 30, was shot and killed. The suspected gunman, Richard Bird, then fled the scene, prompting a massive manhunt involving over 100 officers from various law enforcement agencies. After hours of searching, officers located Bird's abandoned vehicle and found him in a nearby wooded area. As deputies moved in, Bird opened fire, killing one Christian County deputy and injuring two others, one from Christian County and another from Webster County.

  • The initial traffic stop occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • The shootout between officers and the suspect took place after several hours of searching for the suspect.

The players

Deputy Gabriel Ramirez

A 30-year-old deputy with the Christian County Sheriff's Office who was killed during the initial traffic stop.

Richard Bird

The suspected gunman who fled the scene and was later fatally shot by law enforcement after an hourslong manhunt.

Christian County Sheriff Brad Cole

The sheriff who provided details about the incident and described Deputy Ramirez as "kind to everybody" and "always a friend, was always there for anybody who needed a shoulder to lean on."

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What they’re saying

“He was always a friend, was always there for anybody who needed a shoulder to lean on.”

— Christian County Sheriff Brad Cole (kptv.com)

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the incident and will likely release more details about the timeline of events, the identities of the injured deputies, and the motive behind the suspect's actions.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in their daily duties, and the importance of providing them with the necessary resources, training, and support to ensure their safety while protecting their communities.