Pacific Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Shotgun Attack

Jefferson County, Mo. (KFMO) - A Pacific man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly firing a shotgun at two other men in what authorities are calling a case of attempted murder.

Jefferson County prosecutors have charged 36-year-old William A. Cooksey with two counts of Assault in the First Degree and two counts of Armed Criminal Action. Investigators say Cooksey opened fire with a shotgun just before midnight on July 7th, targeting a 64-year-old and a 60-year-old man, both also from Pacific. The incident occurred at Cooksey’s residence in the 2200 block of Lake Tekakwitha Road. Both victims sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Following the shooting, Cooksey fled but was located the next day by Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies at another home in the Pacific area. He was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Jefferson County Jail without bond. The investigation is ongoing.