On June 5, 2025, at 4:53 p.m., law enforcement responded to an address on West Crumb Avenue, in Bernie, MO, for a domestic disturbance. Bernie Police Lieutenant Eddie Mays, 58, tragically died while attempting to take a male subject into custody.

After further investigation, Jeremy P. Blagg, 36, of Bernie, MO, was taken into custody by members of the Bernie Police Department, the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Blagg was arrested for Domestic Assault and transported to the Stoddard County Jail.

At the request of the Bernie Police Chief, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Lieutenant Mays death. Initial reports indicate Lieutenant Mays may have died as a result of complications from a medical condition. The official cause of death is pending a complete investigation and autopsy.

This is an active and ongoing investigation and further details are not currently available for release.

The above charge is mere accusation and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of this charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

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