Two suspects reportedly have been formally charged with felonies in relation to a shooting incident that left one man dead on Sunday, April 15, in Sedalia.
According to the latest release from the Sedalia Police Department, a suspect, 30-year-old Antonio Harper, of Maywood, IL, reportedly fled the scene after he was injured and later was apprehended by authorities in Warrenton . He reportedly was transported to a hospital in the area for treatment of his injuries.
The news release also says 25-year-old Eric Harper, of Chicago, was arrested on Sunday and currently is being held at the Pettis County Jail.
According to the original release, officers responded to the 1200 block of East 4th Street in reference to a subject there who witnessed a shooting. The caller said a person unknown to him came to his door and asked him to call 9-1-1.
Officers made contact with the witness and determined a shooting occurred at 314 North Summit. One victim reportedly was transported via private vehicle and the other victim by Pettis County ambulance to Bothwell Regional Health Center, where he later was pronounced deceased. The deceased man was identified as 42-year-old Maurice Harper Sr., of Sedalia.
According to online court documents, Eric Harper has been charged with a Class A Felony for Assault in the First Degree or Attempt- Serious Physical Injury or Special Victim; a Class E Felony for Unlawful Use of a Weapon- Exhibiting; and an Unclassified Felony for Armed Criminal Action. Bond has been set at $250,000 cash or surety. Antonio Harper has been charged with Class A Felonies for Assault in the First Degree or Attempt- Serious Physical Injury or Special Victim, First-Degree Robbery and Unlawful Use of a Weapon- Shooting at a Person Resulting in the Death of Someone, as well as an Unclassified Felony for Armed Criminal Action. Bond has been set at $250,000 cash only.
Eric Harper was arraigned on Monday, April 16, and his cause has been continued for a counsel-status hearing at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 24, at Pettis County Circuit Court, where Antonio Harper’s initial hearing is pending.
The Sedalia Police Department is continuing its investigation.
Anyone who has any information concerning the death of Maurice Harper Sr. is urged to call the Sedalia Police Department and speak with Detective John Fellows at (660) 827-7823, Ext. 1247.