Date: May 6, 2021

Contact: Sergeant Jason Ludwig

Phone: (620) 421-7060

Email: jludwig@parsonspd.com

On Wednesday evening, May 5, 2021 Parsons Police responded to the 2300 block of Crawford after receiving a report of a gunshot at 8:47 pm. Officers arrived two minutes later, and police officers located a 23-year-old White male who had been shot once in the chest. The victim was found in the east-west alley between Washington and Crawford Streets. Police administered first aid and summoned EMS. The Victim was transported to Labette Health and was later transferred to Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO.

The suspect(s) had fled the scene after firing into a residence in the 2300 Block of Crawford. At least one round passed through a window of the residence striking the Victim in the chest. The Victim who had been standing in the home, ran out of the residence after being shot before collapsing in the alley.

Police Officers and Detectives conducted a canvas of the neighborhood around 23rd and Crawford. Potential witnesses were interviewed. The crime scene was also processed for forensic evidence.

The shooting shows signs that this was a targeted assault and was not a random crime of violence. Detectives are continuing to run down potential persons of interest today.

"At this point the investigation is centering on confirming stories and eliminating individuals as we confirm alibies," said Detective Lieutenant Sherri McGuire. "Like most shootings in Parsons, victims and suspects usually know each other and there is some triggering event that leads to violence."

Deputy Chief Dennis Dodd said, "much of the supposition and rumors on social media are as usual incorrect. We have to deal with facts. Suspicion and rumor are not probable cause for arrest."

Since the beginning of 2021 there has been one homicide in February and then last night's shooting.

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

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