1776Reporting
A Missouri community is in mourning after a tragic accident claimed the life of Officer Phylicia Carson, a mother of six and dedicated police officer. The 33-year-old officer was killed during a high-speed chase that began as a routine traffic stop.
Officer Carson, who served with the Osage Beach Police Department, was in pursuit of a speeding vehicle on a rural highway near the Lake of the Ozarks. The chase took a devastating turn when Carson lost control of her patrol car, skidding off the road and crashing into a tree. The impact caused the vehicle to burst into flames.
Chief Todd Davis, visibly shaken, addressed the public during a press conference on Saturday, August 31. “Officer Carson perished in the crash,” he said, wiping away tears. The department had received reports of a fire on the highway, where Carson had been in pursuit. Despite attempts to reach her, they were unable to establish contact, confirming the worst fears of her colleagues.
The suspect at the center of the pursuit was identified as 23-year-old Christopher Aaron Bishop Wehmeyer. Following the crash, Wehmeyer also lost control of his vehicle, crashing just minutes after Carson. He has since been charged with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention of a motor vehicle resulting in death. Online records confirm that Wehmeyer is being held in Camden County Jail without bond.
Officer Carson leaves behind her husband, Grant, and their six children. The loss has sent shockwaves through the Osage Beach community and the police department, which had not lost an officer in the line of duty for 30 years. “Please keep the Carson family, our Department, and our community in your thoughts and prayers as we work through this tragic event,” Chief Davis urged during the press conference.
This tragedy occurred just days after Missouri passed Valentine’s Law. The new legislation makes it a serious offense to flee from law enforcement during a traffic stop, especially if it results in severe injury or death. The law states, “A suspect who is charged becomes a defendant, and that can be up to a felony, which is 10 to 30 years to life in prison,” as explained by Camden County prosecuting attorney Richelle Grosvenor, via KY3.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, as the community grapples with the loss of a beloved officer and mother. Carson’s dedication to her duty and her family has left a lasting legacy, one that will be remembered by all who knew her.
The impact of her loss is profound, touching not only her family but the entire Osage Beach community. Officer Carson’s death is a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily, and her sacrifice will not be forgotten. As her colleagues and community mourn, they also seek justice and answers, hoping that such a tragedy will never occur again.
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