MINERAL POINT, MO – A 20-year-old woman, Josie Reed, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder after fatally shooting her 30-year-old boyfriend at a residence in Mineral Point, Missouri, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Reed claimed she acted in self-defense, alleging her boyfriend attacked her with pepper spray and physical violence, but investigators found no evidence to support her claims.
The Fatal Shooting
Authorities responded to reports of a shooting at a Mineral Point home on Friday. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the victim dead from a gunshot wound and Reed at the scene, reporting the incident.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Reed told police that her boyfriend became “irate” on the night of October 3, allegedly choking her unconscious three times, attacking her repeatedly, and even pepper-spraying her. Reed claimed she retrieved her boyfriend’s pistol during the confrontation and shot him twice, believing he was reaching for a shotgun.
Evidence Disputes Her Account
Investigators noted inconsistencies in Reed’s statements. While she showed markings on her body, police reported that none were consistent with being choked. Additionally, no pepper spray was found at the residence, and the alleged victim had no gunshot residue on his hands, contradicting Reed’s account of a physical struggle.
Reed also told police that her boyfriend prevented her from reporting him as a witness in another firearms case, providing yet another explanation for her actions. Authorities are investigating all aspects of the case.
Charges and Detention
Reed was arrested and faces multiple charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Two counts of armed criminal action
- Unlawful use of a weapon
- Domestic assault
She is currently being held at the Washington County Jail on $1 million cash bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for October 14.
Law Enforcement Statement
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that the department is treating the incident as a serious criminal matter, given the conflicting accounts and the severity of the alleged attack.
Call to Action
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