Zachary Walker taken into custody after hourslong Caruthersville standoff
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CARUTHERSVILLE, Mo., (KBSI) — Multiple law enforcement agencies assisted the Caruthersville Police Department with a barricaded subject Thursday night, according to Sgt. Clark Parrott.
According to Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Clark Parrott, Zachary Walker was taken into custody.
The response came after the Hayti Police Department issued a public warning advising residents to avoid the Caruthersville area due to what was initially described as an active shooter situation.
FOX23 reporter Tallis Johnson was on scene.
Based on witness accounts, the incident appeared to begin around 6 p.m. Several bystanders told Johnson that roads were closed near 11th Street and the Dollar General and that the suspect was believed to be inside a residence near the store.
Johnson observed multiple drones operating overhead, and one witness reported that a helicopter landed near the scene around 7 p.m.
A significant law enforcement presence remained in place throughout the evening. Witnesses estimated that officers and emergency responders from multiple agencies were involved. Johnson observed numerous patrol vehicles and multiple ambulances staged nearby.
The Dollar General, Dollar Tree and FCC Behavioral Health facility were closed because of the incident.
Throughout the evening, Johnson heard multiple loud explosions that witnesses believed were consistent with tear gas deployments, as well as multiple rounds of gunfire. Several bystanders reported hearing numerous gunshots during the incident.
Parrott later told FOX23 that the suspect was transported by EMS from the scene. He also said the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is conducting the shooting investigation.
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether any injuries have been reported. Parrott said no further updates are expected at this time.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
