FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
I am deeply troubled by the events that occurred Thursday afternoon, but I am so thankful for the peaceful resolution. As usual, Springfield citizens, workers, first responders and bystanders reacted to a potentially dangerous situation in the right way. The Springfield Police Department moved quickly to address the matter, aided by outstanding work by an off-duty firefighter. I commend all of those involved and empathize with those affected by the situation.
Greene County Prosecutor Dan Patterson has filed appropriate charges in this matter.
It is necessary and appropriate to have a serious discussion about ideas to make our communities safer. I will be working alongside my City Council colleagues to open further dialogue about our public safety priority and all of its dimensions in the coming months. Together, we will further the dialogue about public safety and any threats to that public safety.
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For more information, contact Cora Scott, Director of Public Information & Civic Engagement, at 417-380-3352 or [email protected].