Suspect killed after two Christian County deputies killed in shooting
By: Ryan Shiner
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) -- The man accused of shooting and killing two Christian County deputies and injuring two others is dead.
According to Christian County Sheriff Brian Cole, the suspect, Richard Dean Bird, 45, was killed after he opened fire on deputies as they tried to arrest him. Deputies returned fire after Bird shot at them.
One Christian County deputy was killed during the shootout and another was injured. One deputy from Webster County was also injured, according to Cole. Both deputies' injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening. The name of the Christian County deputy killed in the shootout was not released.
Bird allegedly shot Christian County Deputy Gabriel Ramirez in a separate incident Monday afternoon in Ozark.
At 9:37 p.m. Monday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol issued a “Blue Alert” on Monday afternoon as it searched for a vehicle near a town south of Springfield after the shooting.
A “Blue Alert” is issued in a similar manner to an Amber Alert, though it exclusively means that authorities are looking for someone who either injured or killed a law enforcement officer or is looking for someone who plans to hurt officers.
A second alert was sent at 4:36 p.m., indicating a Christian County deputy was killed in a shooting. An update posted at 9:37 p.m. says authorities are looking for Richard Dean Bird, 45, of Highlandville. It says he is known to carry a gun.
Another alert was sent at 12:50 a.m. Tuesday, saying Bird is in custody.
Troopers were looking for him in Stone County.
Gov. Mike Kehoe issued a statement via X Tuesday morning after news of Bird's arrest:
"Early this morning, we learned the tragic news of another Christian County deputy killed overnight in pursuit of the criminal who took the life of Deputy Gabriel Ramirez. I am grateful for the collaboration between local law enforcement officers, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and federal partners in taking down the perpetrator. This terrible tragedy is yet another solemn reminder of the sacrifices law enforcement officers make to keep our communities safe."
Authorities were looking for a white 2001 Chevrolet Silverado with Missouri license plates reading 9MGX36. The vehicle was found, but Bird is not in custody.
pic.twitter.com/lwA30p44Mn— Missouri State Highway Patrol Alerts (@MSHPAlerts) February 24, 2026
Governor Mike Kehoe posted on social media following the shooting and asked for prayer for the Christian County Sheriff's office and the deputy's family.
I have spoken with Sheriff Brad Cole and we continue to pray for the Christian County Sheriff's Office and the loved ones of the deputy involved in today’s horrific incident in Christian County.
If you have any information that could assist authorities in locating the suspect,… https://t.co/F8ogFB7SxD— Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) February 24, 2026
The Missouri Law Enforcement Funeral Assistance Team wrote on its social media that Gabriel Ramirez was the deputy who was shot and killed.
