A Missouri community is in mourning after the tragic death of Osage Beach police officer Phylicia Carson, a devoted mother of six, who lost her life in a high-speed pursuit crash while on duty.
Officer Carson’s Fatal Pursuit
Officer Carson, 33, was on patrol in the early hours of Sunday when she spotted a vehicle speeding down a rural road near the Lake of the Ozarks in Camden County. Chief Todd Davis shared during a press conference that Carson activated her police lights to conduct a traffic stop but the driver refused to comply and sped off.
As Carson pursued the suspect, tragedy struck as she lost control of her patrol car, skidding off the road and crashing into a tree. The impact caused her vehicle to burst into flames, leading to her untimely death. The department received reports of a vehicle on fire on the highway where Carson was pursuing the suspect, but attempts to contact her were unsuccessful.
Devastating Loss
Chief Davis, visibly emotional, confirmed Carson’s tragic death in the line of duty. The suspect, identified as Christopher Aaron Bishop Wehmeyer, also crashed minutes after Carson while fleeing the scene and was subsequently arrested by law enforcement.
Carson, who had joined the department in June 2023, leaves behind her husband, Grant Carson, and their six children. The loss of such a dedicated officer and loving mother has deeply impacted the Osage Beach community and the law enforcement community at large.
Legal Ramifications
Wehmeyer faces serious charges for his role in the fatal pursuit, including aggravated fleeing a stop or detention of a motor vehicle resulting in death. The new Valentine’s law in Missouri specifically addresses such dangerous behavior, creating harsh penalties for individuals who knowingly put lives at risk by fleeing from law enforcement at high speeds.
Camden County Prosecuting Attorney Richelle Grosvenor emphasized the severity of the charges, which could result in a significant prison sentence for the suspect. The tragic events surrounding Officer Carson’s death have highlighted the importance of enforcing laws that protect both officers and the public from reckless behavior on the roads.
Community Grieves
The loss of Officer Carson marks the Osage Beach Police Department’s first line-of-duty death in three decades, underscoring the rarity and gravity of such incidents. Missouri Governor Mike Parson and Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe expressed their condolences to Carson’s family and colleagues, emphasizing the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day.
Members of the community and Carson’s fellow officers have come together to honor her memory, leaving flowers and messages of support at the police department in remembrance of her service and dedication. Family friend Cira Clement Monnig captured the essence of Officer Carson’s spirit, describing her as a woman of faith, love, and strength who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
In the wake of this tragic loss, the Osage Beach community rallies around the Carson family, offering prayers and support as they navigate this difficult time. Officer Phylicia Carson’s legacy as a devoted mother, dedicated officer, and beloved member of her community will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.