The Joplin Police Department has identified a police officer shot and killed by a man during an exchange of gunfire Tuesday afternoon near Rangeline Road and 4th Street.
Authorities say Corporal Ben Cooper leaves behind a wife and two daughters.
Police say two other officers were shot.
One is in critical condition and another in serious, but stable conditon.
Police say the suspect, who’s been identified as Anthony Felix, was shot by responding officers after stealing a patrol car and crashing it at Connecticut and 9th.
The city will fly flags at half staff beginning at Noon on Wednesday.
The mayor of Joplin is calling on people in the city to let the nation and the world see how Joplin responds to tragedy as a community by showing support for the officers and their families.
| WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) today released the following statement on the death of Joplin Police Officer Benjamin Cooper, who was killed in the line of duty. “As we mourn the tragic loss of Corporal Benjamin Cooper, we are reminded that each time a law enforcement officer reports for duty, neither they nor their families know what dangers they may face. Their willingness to serve is a testament to their courage, their character, and their selfless dedication to others. Corporal Cooper made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the people of Joplin and we are forever grateful for his service. Abby and I are thinking of his wife, his daughters, and his colleagues at the Joplin Police Department, especially the two officers who remain hospitalized.” |
From the city of Springfield: Springfield Mayor Ken McClure would like to send condolences on behalf of City Council and the City of Springfield to the family and colleagues of the Joplin Police Officer killed in the line of duty and the two officers seriously injured Tuesday. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, as well as with Joplin Police Chief Sloan Rowland and Joplin Mayor Ryan Stanley. Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams, has authorized Springfield Police Officers to wear mourning bands to honor the memory, recognize the sacrifice and show support for Joplin Police Department.