Woman found dead before police chase that ended in crash and shooting, investigators say

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri State Highway Patrol released critical incident video related to a recent encounter involving troopers and a woman identified as Delisha Evans.

In a statement accompanying the video, the patrol said the situation highlights the importance of training, preparation and discipline among law enforcement officers during high-stress incidents.

A woman found dead after a multi-state pursuit that ended in a crash and officer-involved shooting in south St. Louis County had died before the chase began, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Authorities said Delisha Evans and Ryan Phillips were both pronounced dead at the scene Sept. 6 after a pursuit ended with a rollover crash on South Rock Hill Road near Pardee Road in Affton.

Investigators said police in Princeton, Texas, had issued a critical missing person alert for Evans after responding to a fire at her home and discovering she was missing. Texas authorities later notified the Missouri State Highway Patrol that Phillips, Evans’ ex-boyfriend, was traveling toward the St. Louis area in a red Range Rover and that Evans might be with him.

Troopers located the vehicle on Interstate 44 and attempted a traffic stop, leading to a pursuit that ended when the SUV overturned.

According to the highway patrol, Phillips raised a firearm and pointed it at troopers after the crash. Troopers fired their weapons, striking Phillips. Authorities said it remains under investigation whether Phillips fired any shots at officers.

Both Phillips and Evans were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators later determined Evans had died before the pursuit and crash. Final autopsy results are pending.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and a final report will be released at a later date.