SJPD investigating Downtown disturbance, seeking person of interest

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph Police Department said it is searching for a person of interest following a Downtown disturbance Friday afternoon.

SJPD said officers were dispatched just before 2 p.m. Friday to the 700 block of Francis Street. Officers responded to a physical altercation involving multiple people and reported a display of a firearm.

Officers believe the person of interest had left the area in a vehicle before they arrived.

SJPD said it is continuing to gather evolving information on the incident. They were able to locate the vehicle believed to be involved.

To ensure the safety of all involved in the incident, police conducted a felony car stop near the intersection of Lake and East Nebraska Avenues.

During the stop, a dog exited from the vehicle. SJPD said the dog "aggressively charged at an officer." The officer discharged a firearm, and the incident ended in the dog's death.

Investigators later determined the person of interest was not inside the vehicle. The individual has been identified, but is not in custody.

SJPD said the investigation remains active and that the department will release additional information as it becomes available.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the St. Joseph Police Department at 816-271-4777 or submit an anonymous tip through the TIPS Hotline at 816-238-TIPS (8477).