Name released of Joplin man killed in officer-involved shooting, autopsy scheduled

(From the Joplin Police Department)

The deceased individual from this incident has been identified as James L. Fischer, age 58 of Joplin. Next of kin has been notified. 

An autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday, December 28th. Further details may be released as information arises. 

Original news release

On December 24th, 2023, at 4:26 p.m. the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received a report of a suicidal individual at 1611 E. Vandalia Street in Joplin. 

During the call, the suicidal individual indicated he was armed with a firearm, made suicidal statements, and requested officers to respond to his address. As officers arrived on scene, they encountered the individual in the front yard of the address. 

During the encounter there were shots fired. The individual did suffer gunshot injuries and medical aid was rendered by police until EMS arrived on scene. The individual was transported to Mercy Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. Identification information is being withheld at this time pending formal notification of next of kin. 

The Joplin Police Department can confirm that two Joplin Police Officers did discharge their weapons during the incident and that no officers were injured. The involved officers will be placed on paid administrative leave per department policy. 

Per department protocol, the Joplin Police Department has requested assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol to conduct an investigation to determine the facts of what took place. Further details will be released at a later time as information becomes available throughout the investigation. 

We ask for the public to please keep the officers involved in your thoughts and prayers, along with the family and friends of the individual. The Joplin Police Department knows the holiday season can be a stressful time. We want to remind everyone that you can call, text, or chat with Police Department 303 E 3rd Street Joplin, Missouri 64801 417-623-3131 someone at the Crisis Hotline by dialing or texting 988. 

Trained crisis specialists are available and can help individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, and/or mental health crisis or any other kind of emotional distress.