Police Continue Search for Shooting Suspect

On Wednesday May 31st just before noon the Parsons Police were called to a report of criminal damage in the 1600 block of Kennedy where a man used a hatchet to destroy a vehicle.

When officers responded to the area another report came out in the 800 block of South 35th Street about another criminal damage incident. Officers were notified that the suspect was Stedarrish Herman. While other officers were responding to that scene, Officer Josh Lindsey recognized Stedarrish near the 3100 block of Corning in a gold Buick Century. Officer Lindsey attempted to stop Stedarrish, but he fled, and a pursuit ensued and ended near the area of 24th and Briggs. Stedarrish took off on foot into a densely wooded area where he escaped. The vehicle was impounded as evidence.

While officers were continuing the search for Stedarrish there was another call about an exchange of gun fire in the 3100 block of Grand Ave around 1:00 pm. It was reported that the suspect was again Stedarrish, and he had fled the scene in a black Mercedes. During the exchange multiple houses were hit with gunfire as well as an O'Reilly's delivery vehicle and the business Dwayne's Photo.

Officers talked to witnesses who identified Stedarrish as the shooter who started the gunfire. The intended victims fired back at Stedarrish who was reportedly hit during the exchange. Stedarrish fled the scene leaving his sister, Bernia Herman, who reportedly drove him to the residence, at the scene. Bernia Lashay Herman, 26 of Parsons, was arrested at the scene and transported to the Parsons police Department.

Around 2:00pm Lieutenant Kyle Wiford located the black Mercedes that Stedarrish had fled in at 1204 S 24th officers quickly established a perimeter around the house. A search warrant was obtained for the property and was later executed by officers. Stedarrish was not located at the house but evidence to the shooting was found and collected.

Parsons Police are seeking the following charges through the Labette County Attorney's office for Bernia Lashay Herman; Aiding and Abetting Attempted Murder in the 1st Degree, Aggravated Endangering of a Child, Obstructing Apprehension of Prosecution, Battery, and Endangering a Child.

Parsons Police are currently listing Stedarrish Stefon Herman as the lone suspect for both criminal damage reports as well as the shooting. Stedarrish described as a black male approximately 5'5" tall and 180 pounds he is also known as "Duke" or "Hardbody". Stedarrish has ties to both Parsons and Jackson Mississippi. If anyone knows of his location, please call local law enforcement by dialing 911 or call the Parsons Police Department at (620) 421-7060.

Parsons Police Department Deputy Chief Dodd said, "this is a very sad incident for Parsons. The recklessness that was shown with these firearms could have gotten an innocent party killed. Although this heinous attack was targeted at one particular party the situation escalated to multiple buildings and vehicles having been shot. We do not take these situations lightly and will look to bring Mr. Herman to justice as quickly as possible to answer for these actions. We have a responsibility to the safety of our citizens and will do whatever we can to bring Mr. Herman in peacefully."         

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

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