A Springfield, Missouri, police officer was shot, and another is in critical condition, after an overnight shooting at a convenience store.
Three other people were shot and killed, and the suspect behind the incident reportedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A fourth victim suffering from a gunshot wound was taken to a local hospital.
The officers were responding to reports of gunshots at a Kum & Go convenience store late Sunday, according to Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams.
In a Monday morning media briefing, Williams identified the slain officer as Christopher Walsh. He had been with the department for more than three years and was an Army veteran.
Officer Josiah Overton, whose injuries are not life-threatening, has been with Springfield police for two years, he said.
Williams said police received reports of “multiple shooting calls throughout the city” late Sunday. As officers were responding, witnesses reported a vehicle crashed into a Kum & Go. gas station and convenience store, and the gunman ran inside and began shooting customers and employees, Williams said. The first two officers who arrived were shot.
Other officers pulled the injured officers from the store and then went inside, finding three citizens dead. The gunman also was found dead, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot, Williams said.
“Both officers showed significant bravery and were heroic in their actions,” Williams said.
The identifies of the other victims have not been released pending notification of relatives. Police are still working to determine a motive for the shooting, the chief said.
About the Author
