MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop H Headquarters - 3525 North Belt - St. Joseph, MO 64506-1370


News Release

For further information please contact: Sgt. Sheldon A. Lyon
816-387-2345
H04113
April 20, 2011

EMPHASIS: Troop H Seeks Public's Assistance Locating Suspect Wanted For Assaulting Trooper


On April 20, 2011, at approximately 4:00 a.m. the Cameron Police Department started a pursuit of a stolen vehicle in the city of Cameron, MO. The pursuit was in close proximity to the home of a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper. The trooper heard the pursuit outside his home and got into his patrol vehicle to provide assistance to the other officers. The suspect had escaped, but the trooper was able to locate him and a pursuit began traveling south on Interstate 35, until the suspect crashed his vehicle at I-35 and Missouri Route PP, near Holt, MO. The trooper attempted to arrest the suspect and a fight ensued. The suspect was able to remove the trooper’s gun from its holster and fired one round that missed the trooper. The suspect was then able to escape.
A short time later, another trooper arrived at the scene, and picked up the trooper who was involved in the incident. While looking for the suspect, the troopers were notified that the suspect was able to steal another vehicle--a dark colored, Chrysler mini-van. The troopers found the vehicle and pursued the suspect until they lost sight of the vehicle near the interchange of Missouri Highways 152 and 291.
The suspect has been identified as Justin Heller, 31, of Kingsville, MO. He is five feet nine inches tall, bald, and was last seen wearing a dirty, white T-shirt and dark colored pants. He is wanted for assault of a law enforcement officer and stealing a motor vehicle. Heller is considered armed and dangerous. If the public comes in contact with Heller, do not confront him. Instead, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 816-387-2345 or your local law enforcement agency.
The above charges are mere accusation and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.