Press Release from the City of West Plains:
At approximately 1:07 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, the West Plains Police Department conducted a traffic stop on northbound U.S. Highway 63 near County Road 1820 following a narcotics transaction.
During the traffic stop, an officer discharged their firearm at the suspect, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle. Following the officer-involved shooting, the suspect fled the area in the vehicle, traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 63. The Howell County Sheriff’s Office assumed primary responsibility for the pursuit. The pursuit ultimately ended, and the suspect sustained critical injuries. The suspect was transported for medical treatment.
There is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident.
