A deeply saddening event shook our community as Officer Phylicia Carson, a dedicated police officer and devoted mother of six, tragically passed away while serving on duty. She leaves behind a grieving husband and family.
Officer Carson was an esteemed member of the Osage Beach Police Department in Missouri. On an unfortunate day, August 31, 2024, during her patrol near the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks in Camden County, she noticed a vehicle speeding along a rural road.
Chief Todd Davis of the police department explained during a press conference, “Officer Carson activated her emergency lights and attempted to pull over the speeding vehicle.” However, the driver did not comply, instead, accelerating and prompting a hazardous pursuit.
Tragically, during this chase, Officer Carson’s vehicle lost control, skidding off the road and crashing into a tree, igniting into flames. She was tragically pronounced dead at the crash site, a poignant loss for both her family and the community that respected her.
Chief Davis poignantly stated, “Officer Carson perished in the crash. We ask that you keep her family, our department, and the community in your thoughts and prayers as we all work through this heart-wrenching moment.”
The driver responsible for this fateful incident, a 23-year-old man named Christopher Aaron Bishop Wehmeyer, also met with a crash shortly after on State Highway A. He was apprehended and is now facing serious charges, including aggravated fleeing, which resulted in Officer Carson’s death.
He remains detained in the Camden County Jail without bond, as the legal proceedings continue to progress.
Speaking on behalf of the local legal institutions, Camden County Prosecuting Attorney Richelle Grosvenor stated, “The facts will be thoroughly examined, and we will pursue charges accordingly, utilizing all available resources.”
The loss of Officer Carson has reverberated throughout the state, drawing heartfelt condolences from across the law enforcement community. The Missouri State Highway Patrol expressed their sympathies in a public statement on X.
Tributes from the Missouri State Highway Patrol
Their message read, “On behalf of Colonel Eric T. Olson and the entire Missouri State Highway Patrol, we offer our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Phylicia Carson, whose life was tragically cut short while serving our community this morning. We hold her family and the Osage Beach Police Department in our thoughts.”
This tragic circumstance is a solemn reminder of the utmost bravery and dedication displayed daily by officers like Phylicia Carson who serve valiantly to ensure our safety. The loss pains deeply, casting a shadow over the entire community as we remember Officer Carson’s valor and dedication to duty.
Our hearts go out to not only the Officer Carson family but also to all those who served with her, standing in unity as we navigate through this sorrowful event. Rest in peace, Officer Carson, a true public servant.
