News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant D.S. Bracker
(417)895-6767 ext.253
D2008-13
March 25, 2008

EMPHASIS: Trooper, Webster County Deputy Involved in Shooting


On March 24, 2008, at approximately 11:15 p.m. a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper and a Webster County deputy were involved in a fatal shooting north of Marshfield, Missouri, on Sandridge Road.
The suspect, Joshua Paul Elder, 26, of Marshfield, was pronounced dead by Webster County Coroner Michael Taylor at 11:35 p.m.
The initial investigation indicates law enforcement officers responded to Elder’s residence in rural Webster County while investigating a potential disturbance. Upon arrival, two sheriff’s deputies and the state trooper approached the residence and attempted to make contact with Joshua Elder. The trooper observed Elder with a weapon through a back window. Elder exited the residence and fired a shot in the direction of the trooper and one deputy, who were located at the rear of the residence. The trooper and a deputy returned fire, striking Joshua Elder fatally.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper involved in the shooting incident has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard procedure, pending the outcome of the investigation. The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control and the Webster County Sheriff’s Department are conducting the on-going investigation.
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