Man fleeing vehicle stop runs over New Madrid officer

NEW MADRID, Mo. -- A New Madrid police officer is recovering after a driver intentionally ran over him during a vehicle stop.

Ron C. Murphy, 43, of New Madrid is being held in the Pemiscot County Jail pending the filing of charges, after a traffic stop that began at 3:53 p.m. Monday on Dawson Road, just west of First Street.

New Madrid Police Chief Joey Higgerson said officer Wesley B. Hanner, 29, had stopped Murphy's westbound vehicle for speeding on Dawson Road.

At some point during the stop, Murphy said he was leaving, prompting Hanner to reach in the vehicle to try to seize the keys and stop him.

"When (Hanner) did that, the guy put it in gear and started driving," Higgerson reported.

He said Hanner was dragged by the vehicle about 10 yards. The officer then fell outside the vehicle, and his leg and arm were run over by the back tire.

Pertinent address:

New Madrid, Mo.