by Christian County, Missouri — What began as a routine traffic stop in southwest Missouri escalated into one of the most tragic incidents in county history.
According to the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, a repeat offender fatally shot two deputies before being killed in a gun battle early Tuesday morning.
Traffic Stop Turns Deadly
Sheriff Brad Cole identified the suspect as Richard Dean Bird, 45, who had a lengthy criminal history in Missouri and Kansas.
The encounter began just after 4 p.m. Monday south of Highlandville. Authorities have not disclosed what prompted the initial stop, and the investigation remains ongoing.
During the stop, Deputy Gabriel Ramirez, 30, was shot and killed, Cole confirmed.
Bird fled the scene, triggering a massive manhunt involving nearly 150 law enforcement officers from local, state and federal agencies.
A Blue Alert was issued for Bird’s white Chevrolet Silverado. The vehicle was later discovered abandoned near Reeds Spring, leading to an overnight search through wooded terrain.
30-Minute Gun Battle in the Woods
Early Tuesday morning, authorities located what Sheriff Cole described as a heat signature in a wooded area. When deputies attempted to make contact, they were met with gunfire.
“Officers received no response other than shooting at us,” Cole said.
A roughly 30-minute exchange of gunfire followed.
Deputy Michael Hislope, 40, was killed in the shootout. Deputies Josh Wahl and Austin McCall were wounded but are expected to recover from injuries that are not considered life-threatening.
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Law enforcement returned fire, killing Bird. Officials said a rifle was used during the confrontation.
Suspect’s Criminal Background
Court records show Bird had recently been arrested on charges including burglary and unlawful possession of a firearm. He had posted a $50,000 bond days before the deadly encounter.
In 2014, Bird was arrested in Kansas after allegedly firing multiple shots at a sheriff’s deputy during a theft investigation. He later pleaded guilty to reduced charges and was released from prison in April 2023.
Authorities described Bird as a repeat offender with a documented history of violence involving firearms.
Community Grieves Two Heroes
Sheriff Cole called the incident “a dark day” for Christian County.
Both Ramirez and Hislope were U.S. Army veterans.
“Not only did they serve our community proudly, they served our country,” Cole said.
Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe described the shootings as a solemn reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily. The investigation remains active as officials prepare funeral arrangements and continue supporting the injured deputies.
If you would like to share condolences or messages of support for the deputies’ families, feel free to do so respectfully in the comments below.
