STURGEON, Mo. — A tragic shooting incident in Northern Boone County claimed the life of a 56-year-old man on Saturday evening. Authorities report that the incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. when deputies were dispatched following reports of gunfire in the 18900 block of North Highway NN.
Upon arrival, law enforcement found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the quick response from emergency personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial investigations suggest that a disturbance between two men led to the shooting, prompting one individual to open fire on the other.
Witnesses have indicated that the altercation escalated rapidly, culminating in the tragic outcome. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspected shooter as 31-year-old Dalton Perkins of Sturgeon, who was apprehended as he attempted to flee the area.
Perkins now faces serious charges, including second-degree murder and armed criminal action, along with additional counts related to domestic assault and unlawful use of a weapon, according to the Boone County Jail roster. The community is left grappling with the shock of the incident while law enforcement continues its investigation.
Responders at the scene included personnel from the Boone County Fire Protection District, the Boone Hospital Ambulance Service, and the Columbia Police Department, all of whom worked together in the immediate aftermath of the shooting.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in the region. Local officials expressed their determination to address safety concerns within the community as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
As the inquiry progresses, authorities have not released additional details regarding the motive behind the altercation. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information related to the event to come forward as they seek to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident.