JASPER COUNTY, MO – Jerry Smith, a resident of Galena, was arrested on charges of burglary, assault, and theft of a firearm following an incident in Duenweg on Friday morning. He is currently being held in the Jasper County Jail.
The incident unfolded around 7 a.m. at the Route 66 Coin and Laundry on East 7th Street, where authorities responded to a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers found the business owner, who had been shot in the hand. The victim was subsequently transported to Kansas City for surgery.
Investigators believe Smith initially robbed the business but returned later, unaware that the owner would be present. A scuffle ensued when the owner, armed with a gun, confronted Smith. During the altercation, the owner was shot. Smith is now facing multiple charges related to the robbery and assault.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
