One of two suspects is behind bars and is facing multiple felony charges following a shooting incident in Knob Noster on Friday, January 3.
According to a probable-cause statement, Knob Noster Police officers responded to the report of shots fired in the 600 block of Elm Street at approximately 7:35 p.m. Upon officers’ arrival, they found 39-year-old Quincy Thomas had suffered a single gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported to Research Medical Center for treatment of life-threatening injuries.
The two suspects fled the scene. One of the suspects, 35-year-old Luis A. Lerma, of Marshall, was located in Saline County. Saline County deputies attempted to stop a vehicle, and a short pursuit through Marshall ensued. Lerma reportedly jumped out of the moving car on Pinewood Circle. After an extensive foot and air search, authorities were not able to locate Lerma at that time.
A description of the second suspect has not been released at this time. The investigation is continuing.
According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department’s website, Lerma turned himself in and was booked into the county jail on Tuesday, January 7.
Court documents say Lerma has been charged with a Class A Felony for Assault in the First Degree or Attempt- Serious Physical Injury; a Class D Felony for Endangering the Welfare of a Child- Creating Substantial Risk- in the First Degree; a Class E Felony for Unlawful Use of a Weapon- Discharging into a Home, Moving or Other Transportation; and an Unclassified Felony for Armed Criminal Action. The court has ordered no bond.
Lerma was arraigned on Wednesday, January 8. A case review is scheduled to be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 22. A preliminary hearing is scheduled to be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, at Johnson County Circuit Court.