THREE ARRESTED FOLLOWING STANDOFF IN POPLAR BLUFF
A shooting investigation led to a standoff in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on May 5th, officers responded to Plum Street in reference to a shooting. The victim said that 37 year old Joseph Gracia, of Poplar Bluff, fired several rounds at the victim before fleeing the area, accompanied by 43 year old April Dodge, of Poplar Bluff.
Officials say the incident appeared to stem from an ongoing feud.
A search warrant was obtained leading officers to a residence on Township Line Road. At the scene, investigators issued verbal commands for the occupants to exit the home. After a time of no response, gas was deployed into the home. A short time later Dodge, and 20 year old Jordion Bell, of Poplar Bluff, exited the residence and were both taken into custody.
Investigators breached the residence approximately 20 minutes later and took Gracia into custody. The firearm believed to have been used in the shooting, along with suspected controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, were seized.
Gracia is being held pending the filing of formal charges of assault 1st degree, unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Dodge is being held pending the filing of the formal charges of assault 1st degree, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.