Deputies recover stolen handgun after foot pursuit in Cape Girardeau County

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — A 19-year-old man was arrested early Sunday after deputies recovered a stolen handgun following a foot pursuit in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy observed suspicious activity involving a vehicle near William Street and Henderson Street at approximately 12:33 a.m. June 7.

During the investigation, a passenger identified as Cartez Brae-Shon Wallace fled on foot. Deputies pursued Wallace through the neighborhood and took him into custody without incident.

After the arrest, deputies searched the area and deployed K-9 Zeno to conduct an article search along Wallace’s path. The dog alerted deputies to a discarded firearm, leading to the recovery of a Glock Model 30 Gen 4 .45-caliber handgun with an extended magazine.

Investigators determined the firearm had been reported stolen in Cape Girardeau in 2021. Authorities also found the handgun was equipped with a conversion device commonly known as a “switch.” The weapon was loaded with one round in the chamber and 16 additional rounds in the magazine.

The Cape Girardeau County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Wallace with receiving stolen property, unlawful possession of a weapon and resisting arrest by fleeing.

Judge Julia M. Koester issued a warrant for Wallace with a $20,000 cash-only bond.

An arrest or charge is merely an accusation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.