Manhunt Underway After Missouri Deputy Killed

Suspect's truck spotted heading toward Arkansas border

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

A manhunt is underway in Missouri after a Christian County deputy was shot and killed on Monday afternoon. Authorities are searching for a white 2001 Chevrolet Silverado extended cab pickup truck with Missouri license plate 9MGX36 that was seen in the area of the shooting and is believed to be traveling southbound toward Arkansas.

Why it matters

The fatal shooting of a law enforcement officer is a tragic event that highlights the dangers officers face in the line of duty. This incident has prompted a multi-agency manhunt and the issuance of a Blue Alert, which is designed to quickly notify the public of a suspect who may pose an ongoing threat.

The details

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the deputy was shot and killed just before 4 p.m. in Highlandville. The suspect vehicle has been described as a white 2001 Chevrolet Silverado with a silver brush guard, rusted roof, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball hitch. The truck was last seen heading southbound on U.S. Route 160 from Route HH in Christian County, toward the Arkansas border.

  • The shooting occurred just before 4 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • The suspect's truck was last reported traveling southbound on U.S. 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

An unidentified individual who is believed to have shot and killed the Christian County deputy and is now the subject of a multi-agency manhunt.

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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, U.S. Senator, Missouri (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, U.S. Senator, Missouri (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, Missouri State Representative (Facebook)

What’s next

Authorities are urging anyone who sees the suspect's vehicle to call 911 immediately and not approach the vehicle. The multi-agency manhunt is ongoing, with law enforcement working to apprehend the suspect and bring them to justice.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the dangers that law enforcement officers face in their duty to protect the public. The community is rallying in support of the fallen deputy's family and the officers working to find the suspect, highlighting the importance of law enforcement and public cooperation in maintaining public safety.