Press Release From The Springfield Police Department

December 23, 2021

Springfield Police Investigate Officer-Involved 

On December 23, 2021, at 3:27 p.m., Springfield Police Officers were sent to 240 E. Norton Rd. to check on a male armed with a gun and trying to break into an apartment.  An additional 911 caller also stated they heard shots being fired.  When the officers arrived, they attempted to contact the armed male on the sidewalk in front of an apartment, however, the male refused to comply with commands.  An officer deployed less lethal bean bag rounds at the male which were unsuccessful.  While the male continued to refuse to comply with commands, he pointed a gun at officers.  Two officers then fired at the male striking him multiple times.  The officers then took the male into custody and performed life-saving measures.  The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.  

The deceased male has been identified as Richard R. McCormick, 62, from Springfield, Missouri. Next of kin notifications have been made to his family.

The three officers involved in the shooting incident have been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation.  This case will be presented to the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

The Springfield Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is currently investigating this incident.  Detectives are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477). 

This incident marks the 26th homicide for 2021.

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Case number: 21-45742

Media Contact: Lt. Jennifer Charleston
 417-864-1422
 JCharleston@Springfieldmo.gov

Release authorized by Lt. Bryan Welch