Major Case Squad Investigating Fatal Double Shooting in Cape Girardeau
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (May 9) – A tragic shooting incident that unfolded on Friday afternoon in Cape Girardeau has left one young woman dead and another individual injured, prompting a full-scale investigation by the Major Case Squad.
Authorities say the incident occurred just before 1 p.m. in a quiet neighborhood near the intersection of Whitener and Louisiana Streets. Officers with the Cape Girardeau Police Department were dispatched to the 1500 block of Whitener Street at approximately 12:52 p.m. following multiple reports of gunfire and a person struck by bullets.
When law enforcement arrived on scene, they found a victim suffering from what appeared to be a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the leg. The injured person was quickly stabilized and transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. While the initial investigation was underway, police were alerted to a second victim who had been rushed by private vehicle to a nearby emergency room.
Despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, the second victim — identified as 22-year-old Micah Ledbetter of Cape Girardeau — succumbed to her injuries. Authorities confirmed later in the afternoon that she had died as a result of the gunshot wounds she sustained in the shooting.
The violent incident has shaken the local community, particularly given the age of the deceased and the broad daylight nature of the shooting. Residents in the area, which is typically quiet and residential, expressed their shock and concern as police cordoned off the scene and investigators began combing the area for evidence.
In response to the homicide, the Major Case Squad has been activated to take over the investigation. This multi-agency task force is typically brought in for serious crimes, including homicides, to pool investigative resources and expertise. Their presence underscores the severity of the situation and the urgency in identifying those responsible.
As of now, police have not released any details regarding potential suspects, motives, or whether the victims knew each other. Investigators continue to canvass the area, collect surveillance footage, and interview witnesses in hopes of piecing together the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to the shooting — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward. Tips can be shared directly with the Cape Girardeau Police Department by calling 573-339-6621. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call the department’s tip line at 573-339-6313 or text the keyword “CAPEPD” to 847411.
The tragic loss of Micah Ledbetter has left a void in her family and community. Friends and relatives describe her as a vibrant young woman with her whole life ahead of her, making the circumstances of her death even more painful to accept.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are asking for the community’s cooperation and patience. They emphasized that solving this crime is a top priority and that the Major Case Squad will continue working around the clock to bring justice to the victims and their families.