A deputy in Christian County was shot and killed Monday in the line of duty, prompting a statewide Blue Alert as law enforcement agencies search for a suspect vehicle believed to be connected to the fatal attack.

The shooting was reported at approximately 3:50 p.m. along southbound U.S. 160 near Route HH in Highlandville, a community located south of Springfield. The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that the alert was activated after a deputy was killed during the incident.

Officials have not yet released the name of the fallen deputy, nor have they provided details about the suspect or the specific circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities stated only that the vehicle described in the alert was observed in the area of the fatal encounter involving the Christian County deputy.

Law enforcement agencies across the state are searching for a white 2001 Chevrolet Silverado extended cab pickup bearing Missouri license plate 9MGX36. According to the alert, the truck is equipped with a silver brush guard, has a rusted roof, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch.

Missouri’s Blue Alert system is designed to quickly notify the public when a suspect is being sought in connection with the killing or serious injury of a law enforcement officer. The system functions similarly to an Amber Alert but is specifically reserved for incidents involving officers.

The highway patrol urged anyone who sees the vehicle or has information related to the shooting to call 911 or contact local law enforcement immediately. Officials said the alert will be updated as additional information becomes available.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to locate the suspect and determine the full sequence of events that led to the deputy’s death.