An eviction turned deadly in Independence, Missouri, when a 68-year-old man opened fire, killing an Independence police officer and a court employee who were there to serve an eviction notice.
According to authorities, the shooting came as a result of a yearlong eviction process at a residence in Independence. The team included three officers from the Independence Police Department and one civil process server from the Jackson County Circuit Court. The latter, identified as Drexel Mack, and his colleagues took considerable precautions, ensuring the property was secure before entry. However, as they made their way into the home, they were met with gunfire.
The ensuing shootout tragically claimed the lives of Independence police officer Cody Allen and Drexel Mack. “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we come together to mourn the tragic loss of an Independence Officer, Cody Allen and Circuit Court process server, Drexel Mack. Today our city grieves the passing of two dedicated guardians and public servants,” stated Independence Mayor Rory Rowland. Two other officers were wounded in the incident, with one undergoing surgery and the other sustaining minor injuries; both are expected to recover.
The suspect, Larry Acree, was taken into custody and is currently hospitalized. Acree, who appears to have been facing eviction over unpaid taxes, is held on a $2 million bond and will be transferred to the Jackson County Detention Center when he is able. He faces two counts of murder among other charges.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol, now leading the investigation. The process of evicting Acree from the property began around February 9, 2023. In light of the gravity of the incident and the fact that Mack was a court process server, the case against Acree will not go through Jackson County; a judge from another county will handle the proceedings to avoid conflicts of interest.
Local and state leaders expressed their condolences and offered support to the affected families and law enforcement community. “Teresa and I are praying for the @IndepMoPolice officers involved and all who work to protect us,” said Missouri Governor Mike Parson. The police department, described by Chief Adam Dustman as a “broken family” over the loss, is mourning the death of Officer Allen.
Relevant articles:
– Police officer, court employee killed during Missouri home eviction likely over taxes
– Court worker serving eviction notice, officer killed in Missouri, The Associated Press, Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:12:00 GMT
– Independence police officer and court official killed while serving eviction, another officer shot, KCUR, Fri, 01 Mar 2024 02:15:00 GMT
– Independence police officer and process server killed, 2 others shot, KMBC Kansas City, Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:39:00 GMT