Springfield Police have released details concerning the officer involved shooting on East Kearney at a Kum N’ Go, including identifying the main suspect in the incident.
The Springfield PD began investigating a homicide that took place on Monday, May 17, at 3231 West Page. Detectives determined that one of the individuals involved, John Hilt, 36, had an outstanding warrant from Christian County for resisting arrest.
On Tuesday, May 18, the SPD’s Special Investigations Section began surveillance of Hilt. He was followed to a Kum N’ Go at 3445 East Kearney, traveling in a vehicle with another male and a female.
Detectives attempted to arrest Hilt at the convenience store on the outstanding warrant when Hilt pulled a gun and opened fire on the detectives. Two detectives returned fire at Hilt, who fled in the vehicle with the female. The other male that had been in the car suffered a gunshot to the chest and arm. He was transported to a local hospital for the injuries which were not life threatening.
Police followed Hilt’s vehicle to the Welcome Inn at 3550 East Evergreen. Officers set up a perimeter and eventually were able to take Hilt into custody. Hilt had been hit in the neck and arm during the previous gun confrontation, and was transported to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening wounds.
The woman who was in the car was not injured.
Both officers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave pending an internal investigation, per department policy. The Greene County Prosecutor will review the case for potential charges.
The SPD’s Criminal Investigation Division is actively investigating the incident, and anyone with information is asked to contact the department at 417-864-1810 or call anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 869-8477.