August 19th, 2026 Local News
St. Francois Co., Mo. (KFMO) - A St. Francois County man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he fled from deputies during a traffic stop, led officers on a foot pursuit through wooded terrain, and assaulted a sheriff's K-9 before being taken into custody.
According to the St. Francois County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred early Friday morning, July 3, 2026, when a deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 67 near Cash Lane.
Authorities say the driver, identified as Shannon Ward, resisted the deputy before fleeing on foot into the wooded area near Cherokee Landing. During the pursuit, investigators say Ward attempted to evade capture by swimming across a pond before continuing through the woods.
Deputies eventually located Ward with the assistance of a St. Francois County Sheriff's K-9. During the apprehension, authorities allege Ward wrapped his legs around the K-9 and choked the animal using its collar and leash while deputies worked to take him into custody. Deputies were able to restrain Ward and place him in handcuffs. The K-9 was later evaluated and was not seriously injured.
Ward was transported to the St. Francois County Adult Detention Center, where he remains in custody.
He has been charged with trafficking drugs, fourth-degree assault involving a special victim, resisting arrest, and driving while suspended.