(The Lion) — After being shot while assisting a homicide investigation in Ralls County, Missouri, a hero cop has returned home to cheers, gratitude and relief.
On Oct. 12, police were searching for the killer of Jonathan J. Floyd, 55, of Perry, Missouri.
Randolph County Deputy Nate West was assisting with the service of warrants in the investigation when he was shot as he and other officers traded gunfire with the suspect, whose presence at the residence was concealed by two others, according to a statement by the Randolph County Sheriff’s office.
“The officers killed 57-year-old Charles Armour,” said the sheriff’s news release. “Armour was identified as the person of interest from the [Floyd] homicide reported in Ralls County.”
West was transported swiftly by EMS and flown by helicopter to an area hospital. He underwent multiple surgeries, and authorities later confirmed he was expected to recover.
The homecoming ceremony in Moberly celebrating Deputy West’s release from the hospital was marked by a street lined with emergency service vehicles flashing their lights. At one point, West held up his badge in gratitude for the well-wishers.
Dozens of residents also lined the roadway, waving flags, holding signs and applauding as the deputy’s motorcade passed through.
“I want to personally thank everyone who prayed for my deputy, the deputy’s family and law enforcement in this dark time,” said Randolph County Sheriff Andy Boggs. “We are forever grateful that the deputy will be able to return home to his family.”
“Welcome home to Officer Nate West that was shot in the line of duty on Sunday,” said Chillicothe resident Jenny Schneiderheinze on Facebook. “Thank you for your service!! Please continue to pray for Nate’s recovery!”
Another county resident declared it a “hero’s welcome.”
“Seeing Nate holding his badge out the window as he rode by brought a tear of joy to see him!” said Austin Kyser on Facebook. “So many prayers answered from when news broke that he had been shot. Continued prayers for his recovery!”
The biggest thank you came from West’s wife, who called the 24 hours after receiving the news her husband had been shot “the most gut-wrenching hours of my life.”
“I’m so thankful for our village near and far,” said Ronni West, citing the Christian pop song “Too Good to Not Believe,” about God’s gift of faith and healing. “To our family, friends, & LEO family (from all over the state) thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have showed up for us in all the ways we’ve needed and have felt all of your many prayers. Nate is on his journey of recovery.”
Two women involved in the incident – Lois Armour, 78, and Patty Armour, 51 – were arrested and charged with hindering prosecution of a felony, reported local KRCG News 13.
Authorities say they consented to a search of the residence and said the suspect wasn’t there.
Later it was discovered Charles Armour was hiding in a bathroom, and the shootout ensued.
The women were booked into Randolph County Jail and held on a $100,000 bond, KRCG said.
While West remains in recovery, authorities say he will continue to receive support from the Sheriff’s Office and his fellow officers.
Anyone with information about Floyd’s shooting was asked to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop B at (660) 385-2132, or MSHP Sergeant Bradley Germann at (573) 526- 6122, KRCG reported.
