Deandra Patterson Arrested in Deadly Shooting of 22-Year-Old Micah Ledbetter in Cape Girardeau
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — A tragic shooting incident has led to the arrest of 27-year-old Deandra Leeann Patterson, who now faces multiple felony charges in connection with the death of 22-year-old Micah Ledbetter. The fatal shooting occurred on Friday, May 9, 2025, in a residential area on the 1500 block of Whitener Street, prompting swift action from local law enforcement and the Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad.
According to a press release from the Cape Girardeau County Prosecutor’s Office, Patterson has been charged with three serious crimes:
- Murder in the Second Degree (Class A Felony)
- Armed Criminal Action (Felony)
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Class C Felony)
Authorities report that Patterson is currently in custody, with bond set at $1 million cash-only. The severity of the charges and the bond amount reflect the gravity of the incident and Patterson’s criminal history, which includes previous legal run-ins, though officials have not yet released further details on her background.
Timeline of the Incident
The Cape Girardeau Police Department received a call reporting gunfire at approximately 12:52 p.m. on May 9. Responding officers arrived at the Whitener Street location to find one male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. Although the injury was serious, it was deemed non-life-threatening. Emergency medical personnel transported the man to a local hospital for further care.
In a startling development, not long after the initial report, a second shooting victim arrived at the emergency room of a nearby hospital by private vehicle. The man was later identified as Micah Ledbetter, 22, a Cape Girardeau resident. Unlike the first victim, Ledbetter had sustained life-threatening injuries. Despite efforts by medical staff, he succumbed to his wounds shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the incident, the Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad was activated to assist with the investigation. Detectives quickly gathered evidence from the scene, canvassed the neighborhood, and began reviewing surveillance footage from nearby properties. Witness accounts and forensic findings soon pointed to Deandra Patterson as a primary suspect.
Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, nor have they detailed the relationship between Patterson and the victims. However, sources close to the investigation indicate that the incident may have stemmed from a personal dispute that escalated into violence. Police are also investigating whether Patterson acted alone or if others may have been involved or present during the altercation.
Community Reaction
The fatal shooting has sent shockwaves through the Cape Girardeau community, where friends and family of Micah Ledbetter are mourning the loss of a young man described as kind-hearted and full of potential. Social media tributes have poured in, with many calling for justice and offering condolences to his loved ones.
“This tragedy has left a deep void in our hearts,” said one family member. “Micah was more than just a name in a headline. He was a brother, a friend, and someone who had a bright future ahead.”
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Patterson’s next court appearance is expected in the coming days, where a judge will review the charges and determine the progression of the case. Given the seriousness of the charges, legal experts anticipate a lengthy pretrial process, including further investigation, witness testimony, and forensic analysis.
As the case unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting or the events leading up to it to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Cape Girardeau Police Department’s tip line.
Conclusion
The arrest of Deandra Patterson marks a significant development in a case that has deeply affected Cape Girardeau residents. As the legal process moves forward, the community continues to grieve the loss of Micah Ledbetter, while seeking answers and accountability in the wake of a senseless act of violence.