Liberal man charged with assault following shooting of 77-year-old man

(From the Barton County Sheriff's Office)

On November 13th, 2023 at approximately 1741hrs Barton County 911 Dispatch received a 911 call in reference to a person being shot. Deputies were dispatched to a residence in rural Southwest Barton County.

 
Deputies arrived on scene and located a 77-year-old male with a gunshot wound being treated by Barton County Ambulance personnel. It was determined the gunshot wound was non-life threatening at that time. 

Throughout our initial investigation, the suspect was identified as Joseph Barger (37) of Liberal, Mo. Deputies were told the suspect was picked up by an unknown person in an unknown vehicle. Deputies also received information that the suspect may still be on scene.

 
At this time in the investigation, it was determined that additional resources were needed to locate the suspect. Chief Deputy Ehrsam then requested Cedar County Sheriff’s Office to respond with their Drone, equipped with FLIR imaging, which provided information to Deputies and officers on the ground. Also requested was Missouri State Highway Patrol. 

Deputies cleared the residence where the incident took place along with the property and outbuildings. After hours of searching, and unable to locate Joseph Barger, Deputies then cleared the scene once it was processed.

 
On November 14th, 2023, Barton County Dispatch received an anonymous tip from a citizen that Joseph Barger was seen entering the apartments near 9th St. and Poplar St. Lamar Police Department along with Barton County Sheriff’s Office responded to the location. 

Once Deputies and Officers arrived on scene, they surrounded the building and began making announcements. A short time later Joseph exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident.

 
On November 15, 2023 the Barton County Prosecutor, Michael Smalley filed for a warrant with the 28th circuit court. On the same day, Judge James V. Nichols issued a warrant for Joseph Barger on the following charges.

 
1. 565.050 Assault 1st Degree (Felony A)
2. 571.015 Armed Criminal Action (Felony Unclassified)
Bond: CAPIAS