2 Deputies Shot in Callaway County Missouri
The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office in Missouri reported two of their deputies were shot and injured on the I-70 Highway. They said a deputy initiated a traffic stop at around 3:35 a.m., October 14, 2024. A second deputy shortly arrived to assist.
The sole occupant of the vehicle, was identified as 37-year-old Jonathan A. Beason from Medina, Texas. Dispatchers at the Callaway County Joint Communications (CCJC) advised the deputies that the man had multiple felony warrants from out of state. Deputies radioed dispatch that the driver was resisting arrest.
Seconds later, the deputies called out shots fired over the radio. Both of the deputies reported being struck by gunfire. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Fulton Police Department, and Columbia Police Department were dispatched and quickly arrived on scene to assist. The deputies were transported to the closest hospital for treatment.
One deputy was in serious condition and the second was in stable condition when they were transported. The deputy in serious condition is currently out of surgery and is recovering. The deputy in stable condition is going to go through surgery. They have at least a 6-month road to recovery from the injuries. The Deputies are being identified as Corporal Justin Bax and Deputy Gardner Pottorff.
The suspect, Jonathan Beason was pronounced dead at the scene. Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) was requested by the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the incident. The Missouri State Highway Patrol recovered a gun belonging to Beason at the scene.
The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office said they have received many calls from people asking how they can assist Corporal Justin Bax and Deputy Gardner Pottorff and their families. Both families have partnered with the Chief Mason Griffith Foundation to assist with donations. 100% of the funds raised will go directly to benefit the deputies and their families excluding credit card fees.
The Callaway Sheriff’s Office said Workers’ compensation and insurance will cover medical bills and 66% of their salaries, the families will incur other expenses during their 6-month recovery. The donations will assist them with financial burdens.
Official Donation Links:
Deputy Pottorff – https://gcld.co/DZ8xpaZ
Corporal Bax – https://gcld.co/4gaGlwZ
The Callaway Sheriff’s Office said that there have been fraudulent links to go fund me accounts and the above links they provided us is the only official links to donate.
The Callaway Sheriff’s Office appreciates the assistance to the families. They and IBO Reports asks that you keep the Deputies and their families in your thoughts and prayers.
