In mid-November 2020, Willard police responded to a shocking double homicide of a young couple found shot on their porch on the corner of Main St. and Mill St. of the small town. Our own amazing police force, with the assistance of the Highway Patrol, were able to crack the case in about 3 weeks.
A true crime series, Interrogation Raw, will air on Thursday, Oct 2nd at 9/8c. The episode focuses on the artful interrogations that brought such quick closure. We are so proud of the featured efforts of our police interrogators, Major Shannon Shipley and Sergeant Steve Purdy.
Looking back on the case, Major Shannon Shipley remembered, “Our highly trained and dedicated team poured themselves into this investigation. The result was the arrest and conviction of those who senselessly murdered Alex Chute and Brianna Sproul. While we couldn’t bring them back, we had the opportunity to bring justice to their families.”
Sergeant Steve Purdy added, “It’s truly astonishing the amount of emergency personnel that Willard has at their disposal when needed. From the dispatchers who took the call and coordinated the response to the multiple police agencies that responded. From the investigators, from several agencies, that worked multiple crime scenes to the family services and CAC personnel that protected the children. From the Medical Examiner’s Office to the first responders of the Willard Fire Department and Mercy EMS. From the Prosecutor’s Office to our fair judges. I am thankful that there are numerous men and women that dedicate their lives to the safety of Willard.”
The official upcoming episode description reads:
“A chilling murder case shakes a small Missouri community...
The scene is haunting, and the detectives quickly realize that this is not just a random act of violence. As they dig deeper, they uncover a complex web of deceit and betrayal, revealing that the true mastermind behind the crime may be someone very close to the victims.
The tension builds as the detectives race against time to piece together the clues and motives. With each interview, secrets are revealed and the inner circle of the couple comes under scrutiny.”
For background and other quotes from our Chief of Police and others you can view the news releases:
Willard, Mo. Police Chief addresses 2 arrests in California connected to double homicide
Judge sentences 2 for the deaths of Willard, Mo. couple in November 2020