Festus man charged in Cedar Hill River Access shooting investigation

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — A Festus man has been charged in connection with a shooting at the Cedar Hill River Access that left him wounded last month, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Prosecutors charged 20-year-old Chase Hoofman of Festus with two counts of first-degree assault, two counts of armed criminal action and one count of unlawful use of a weapon.

Investigators said the shooting happened June 23 after Hoofman became involved in a verbal altercation with a group of people at the river access.

According to the sheriff’s office, Hoofman allegedly pulled out a handgun, pointed it at members of the group and fired a shot into the ground. Authorities said members of the group then drew their own handguns and warned Hoofman to leave.

Investigators allege Hoofman continued displaying the handgun in a threatening manner and again pointed it at members of the group. At that point, one member of the group shot Hoofman.

Hoofman was found at the scene with a gunshot wound and was taken to a hospital, where he was treated and later released.

Deputies arrested Hoofman on Monday and booked him into the Jefferson County Jail, where he is being held without bond.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office said no charges are being considered against the individual who shot Hoofman.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.