Osage Beach, MO – The Osage Beach community is mourning the tragic loss of Police Officer Phylicia Carson, a 33-year-old mother of six, who was killed early Sunday morning during a high-speed chase. Officer Carson, who had recently joined the Osage Beach Police Department, lost control of her patrol car while pursuing a suspect on a rural road in Camden County, near the Lake of the Ozarks.
The incident unfolded around 1:20 a.m. when Officer Carson, while on routine patrol, noticed a vehicle speeding along the winding, dark roads typical of rural Missouri. Osage Beach Police Chief Todd Davis reported that Carson initiated a pursuit after activating her emergency lights, intending to conduct a traffic stop. However, the driver, later identified as 23-year-old Christopher Aaron Bishop Wehmeyer, refused to stop and accelerated, leading to a dangerous chase.
As the pursuit continued, Officer Carson’s vehicle veered off the road and struck a tree, causing the patrol car to burst into flames. Emergency responders were alerted to a vehicle fire but were unable to make contact with Officer Carson. Chief Davis, during an emotional press conference, confirmed that Officer Carson had died in the crash, marking a devastating moment for the department and the community.
Wehmeyer was apprehended shortly after crashing his vehicle during his attempt to flee. He has been charged with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention of a motor vehicle, resulting in death. Camden County records indicate that he is currently held without bond at the Camden County Jail.
This heartbreaking incident follows the recent enactment of Missouri’s Valentine’s Law, which aims to reduce the dangers associated with high-speed chases. The law, named after another officer who lost their life in similar circumstances, introduces harsher penalties for fleeing drivers who cause serious injury or death. If convicted under this law, Wehmeyer could face a felony charge with a potential sentence ranging from 10 to 30 years or even life in prison.
Officer Carson had joined the Osage Beach Police Department in June 2023 and was quickly recognized as a valuable member of the team. She leaves behind her husband, Grant Carson, and their six children. The Osage Beach community and law enforcement across the state are deeply affected by her loss. Chief Davis urged the public to keep the Carson family, the department, and the community in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
This marks the first line-of-duty death for the Osage Beach Police Department in over 30 years, a sobering reminder of the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact sequence of events that led to this tragic outcome.
Public figures across Missouri have expressed their condolences in the wake of Officer Carson’s death. Governor Mike Parson and his wife, Teresa, extended their prayers to the Osage Beach community, emphasizing that Officer Carson’s service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe also offered his heartfelt condolences to the Carson family and the Osage Beach Police Department, highlighting the dangerous and selfless nature of police work.
As the community deals with this profound loss, there is a renewed focus on the importance of supporting law enforcement and ensuring officers have the necessary resources and protections. The death of Officer Phylicia Carson serves as a painful reminder of the dangers inherent in police work, especially during high-speed pursuits. Her legacy as a dedicated officer and loving mother will be honored by the Osage Beach community in the days and weeks ahead.
