BREAKING: Three Officers Down In Missouri

Joplin, MO – Three police officers were shot during a gun battle with as suspect in Joplin on Tuesday afternoon.

The incident occurred at about 1:22 p.m. on March 8 near 4th and Rangeline Road near the Buckle, KOAM reported.

Joplin Police Assistant Chief Brian Lewis said officers were responding to a disturbance when they encountered an armed suspect and gun battle ensued.

Assistant Chief Lewis said two officers were shot in the initial gunfight, KOAM reported.

He said the suspect fled the area after shooting.

Assistant Chief Lewis said police pursued the gunman and more shots were fired at 9th and Connecticut, KOAM reported.

The assistant chief said a third officer was shot during that exchange that ended on Laura Lane, KSN reported.

He said the suspect was also shot, according to KOAM.

Assistant Chief Lewis said all three wounded officers and the suspect were transported to area hospitals.

The Missouri Highway Patrol was on the scene assisting with the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, KOAM reported.

The assistant chief said there were three active scenes connected to the incident.

Officials have not released any information on the identities or medical conditions of the wounded officers or the suspect, KOAM reported.

Police said there was no additional active threat to the community.

“Watching this closely,” U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) tweeted. “I want to say thank you to these officers and to every MO cop who puts their life on the line every day.”

2 officers have been shot in Joplin. A third person has also been shot. There are two scenes. I’m at this strip mall. Our other crew is at 9th & Connecticut. #KSN16 pic.twitter.com/hFb0G9Rj0D

— Jessica Schaer (@JessSchaer) March 8, 2022

We are praying for our Joplin Police Officers and their families. pic.twitter.com/uka91WhsAz

— First Joplin (@FirstJoplin) March 8, 2022

Pray for our Joplin police. Word of a tragic shooting and possible loss of life. #BackTheBlues

— Cathy Jo Loy (@CJheartart) March 8, 2022

UPDATE: Joplin police announced late on Tuesday night that one of the wounded officers had succumbed to his injuries. The other two officers remained in critical and serious condition.

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