Manhunt Underway After Missouri Deputy Killed

Suspect's truck spotted heading toward Arkansas border

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A manhunt is underway in Missouri after a Christian County deputy was shot and killed on Monday afternoon. The suspect vehicle has been identified as a white 2001 Chevrolet Silverado extended cab pickup truck with Missouri license plate 9MGX36, which was last seen traveling southbound on US Route 160 toward the Arkansas border.

Why it matters

The fatal shooting of a law enforcement officer is a serious crime that raises public safety concerns and requires a swift response from authorities to apprehend the suspect and prevent further violence.

The details

The Missouri State Highway Patrol issued a Blue Alert for the suspect vehicle, which is described as having a silver brush guard, a rusted roof, black body trim, tinted rear windows and a three-ball hitch. No suspect description has been released. Officials are urging anyone who sees the vehicle not to approach it and to call 911 immediately.

  • The shooting occurred just before 4 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • The suspect vehicle was last reported traveling southbound on US Route 160 from Route HH in Christian County.

The players

Christian County Deputy

A law enforcement officer who was fatally shot in the line of duty.

Suspect

The individual believed to have shot and killed the Christian County deputy, who is currently the subject of a manhunt.

Missouri State Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency that issued the Blue Alert and is leading the manhunt for the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“A deputy in my home county was shot and killed today. Erin and I are praying for his family. May justice be swift.”

— Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo. (Fox News Digital)

“As local law enforcement works to bring the suspect to justice, my prayers are with the deputy's loved ones and those who served shoulder to shoulder with him to keep Missouri safe.”

— Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo. (X)

“My heart is broken for our deputy's family. While they understood that this profession carries risk, senseless acts like this are beyond comprehension.”

— Rep. Jamie Ray Gragg (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect, Richard Dean Bird, out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face in the line of duty and the importance of swift action to apprehend suspects who pose a threat to public safety. The community is rallying to support the deputy's family and law enforcement as they work to bring the suspect to justice.