December 11, 2024

FESTUS, Mo. — The Arkansas State Police (ASP) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is investigating the death of Clara Braxton, 45, of Independence County, Arkansas. Ms. Braxton’s body was discovered after a December 8, 2024, officer-involved shooting in Festus, Missouri.

At approximately 11 a.m. that day, the Festus Police Department responded to reports of an active shooter at a White Castle restaurant there.

The suspect, later identified as Jarrett W. Cousins, 40, of Bradford, Ark., fled the scene in a Dodge Ram truck. Police officers from Festus and Crystal City attempted to stop the vehicle before it struck a concrete median, stopping in front of a Crystal City shopping center on Truman Boulevard.

Cousins exited the vehicle wearing body armor and armed with multiple firearms. The suspect discharged his weapons, and officers returned fire, striking the suspect. Cousins was transported to a Missouri hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition. Officers found Braxton deceased in the front passenger seat of Cousins’ vehicle.

No officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire. The Jefferson County (Missouri) Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is investigating the officer-involved shooting. That agency has charged Cousins with one count of First-Degree Assault or Attempt – Serious Physical Injury or Special Victim and one count of Armed Criminal Action. He is being held without bond.

Braxton’s body was sent to the Missouri Crime Lab.

JCSO requested assistance from ASP CID in investigating the death of Braxton, which investigators believe occurred in Arkansas. 

ASP CID will prepare a case file for the Independence County, Ark., prosecutor to determine charges.

Reporters with questions about the Missouri officer-involved shooting investigation should contact the JCSO Public Information Office at (636) 797-5053.