Three Cape teens detained after Sikeston shooting, pursuit

Three Cape Girardeau teens were arrested in Sikeston, Missouri, after they were accused of shooting at a house and a brief pursuit in Sikeston last week.

The Sikeston Department of Public Safety reported Monday that Ralph Holmes, 19, was charged with multiple felonies and is in custody at the Scott County Jail in Benton, Missouri.

Two 15-year-old suspects, whose names have not been released, are being held at the Mississippi County Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Charleston, Missouri.

Sikeston officers responded to a shots-fired call in the area of Malcolm Avenue and Murray Lane about 1:20 a.m. Aug. 16, according to a news release from Sikeston DPS Capt. James McMillen. A vehicle matching the description of the suspects' was seen near Malcolm Avenue and William Street.

When officers tried to stop the vehicle, it fled, nearly striking one officer. Two officers who pursued the vehicle said they saw objects that appeared to be firearms being thrown from its windows. Other investigators later recovered three handguns along the path of the pursuit.

Police continued to pursue the vehicle northeast until it stopped near Main and Tanner streets. Police apprehended Holmes, who was driving, and one passenger. The front passenger fled the vehicle on foot but was apprehended near Lake and North Main streets soon after.

Investigators believe the shooting was directed at a home in the 500 block of Malcolm Street. A disturbance at a birthday party at the residence allegedly resulted in a fistfight. After the fight broke up, guests heard gunshots ring out as several people left the residence, police said.

Detectives recovered weapon lights and laser weapon sights in addition to the handguns.

A homeowner on Dempster Street told investigators his house was struck by bullets.

Holmes is charged with attempting to assault a law-enforcement officer, armed criminal action and resisting arrest by fleeing, all felonies.

He was given a $25,000 cash or surety bond. He is scheduled to appear Wednesday before Judge Scott T. Horman.

tgraef@semissourian

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