Double Murder Suspect Killed Following Chase in Saline County
SALINE COUNTY, Mo. — In a dramatic turn of events, a 23-year-old suspect in a double homicide was shot and killed by a Missouri state trooper following a pursuit that culminated in a violent confrontation Tuesday night.
Background Information
Francis Alcantar-Chavez, who was wanted in connection with a double homicide that occurred on Sunday in Taylor, Arizona, led law enforcement on a high-speed chase that began in Concordia, Missouri. Local authorities initiated the pursuit around 6:15 p.m., but soon lost track of the suspect’s motorcycle in rural Saline County.
The Pursuit
Law enforcement agencies quickly sprang into action, with the Missouri State Highway Patrol joining the search. By approximately 7:55 p.m., troopers located Alcantar-Chavez traveling westbound on 115th Road toward Belmont Avenue in Sweet Springs. As police attempted to intercept him, Alcantar-Chavez collided with a patrol vehicle and subsequently fled on foot.
During the ensuing foot chase, Alcantar-Chavez allegedly fired a handgun at one of the troopers, striking him in his bulletproof vest. Fortunately, the vest absorbed the impact, and the trooper returned fire, fatally wounding Alcantar-Chavez.
Aftermath
The incident unfolded swiftly, with Alcantar-Chavez pronounced dead at the scene. The trooper was hospitalized but is expected to recover from his minor injuries.
“The safety of our officers is paramount, and we are thankful that the trooper’s vest prevented a serious injury,” said a representative from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Ongoing Investigation
The Missouri Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is currently investigating the incident. Upon completion, the findings will be submitted to the Saline County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds, and the identity of the deceased suspect was confirmed to be Francis Alcantar-Chavez.
Support Resources for Victims
In light of the recent turmoil tied to violent crimes, various organizations in the St. Louis area are stepping up to provide support for victims and their families. These include:
- Crime Victim Center of St. Louis: Offers direct services and programs aimed at supporting crime victims.
- Life Outside of Violence: Focuses on helping individuals affected by violence to find alternatives and resources.
- Neighborhood Healing Network (Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis): Assists those experiencing the aftermath of violence or trauma.
- Bullet Related Injury Clinic (BRIC): Provides ongoing care for individuals who have suffered gunshot injuries.
As authorities work through the details of this tragic event, the community remains on alert, grappling with the repercussions of violence and the importance of support for those impacted.

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