Joplin Officer involved shooting

On February 9, 2024, at 08:33 a.m. the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received multiple calls of a suspicious individual near 7th and Sergeant Avenue in Joplin. A Joplin Police Officer responded to the call and arrived on scene shortly thereafter.

During the encounter, the officer discharged his duty weapon, striking the suspect once in the hand/wrist area. Only one shot was fired by the officer. Aid was immediately rendered to the suspect until EMS arrived on scene. The suspect was transported to Freeman Hospital for further treatment of his gunshot wound injury. His injury is believed to be non-life threatening.

The identification of the suspect is currently being withheld as he has been placed on a 96-hour mental health evaluation hold. He is currently receiving services and treatment.

The officer involved in this incident was not injured. As per department policy and procedure, he has been placed on paid administrative leave as the investigation remains ongoing. Also, in accordance with department policy and procedure, the Joplin Police Department has requested the assistance of the Missouri State Highway Patrol with the investigation of the officer involved shooting.

As the investigation continues, further details regarding what led up to the officer involved shooting may be released at a later time as that information becomes available. This was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public. Traffic was temporarily shut down along 7th street, however the scene has been cleared and traffic is now open to normal driving conditions.

The Joplin Police Department wants to remind everyone that there are resources to help and assist with mental health issues. Anyone can call, text, or chat with someone at the Crisis Hotline by dialing or texting 988. Trained crisis specialists are available and can help anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, and/or mental health crisis or any other kind of emotional distress.