Adrian, MO – An 18-year-old from Adrian, Missouri, faces severe legal consequences following the fatal shooting of his adoptive father, an incident he reportedly described as necessary, police said.
Carter J. Curtis was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action after the event, which transpired on the night of September 28 in their family home. Located about 55 miles south of Kansas City, the small town of Adrian was shaken by the grim news.
Authorities detailed that Curtis made a 911 call at 11:23 p.m. to alert them about the shooting. When local police arrived at the residence minutes later, they discovered the victim lying face down with a fatal gunshot wound to the head in the kitchen. According to the Adrian Police Department’s probable cause statement, the victim’s wife recounted waking up to a gunshot before encountering Curtis in the hallway. He handed her the rifle and indicated that calling the authorities was both his and a compelled action. She found her husband deceased in the dining room.
The weapon involved, identified as a Mossberg Patriot .308 caliber rifle, was found with a spent shell casing in its chamber. Curtis had reportedly relinquished the rifle to his stepmother before the police apprehended him close to the crime scene about ten minutes post the emergency call.
Currently, Curtis remains in custody at the Bates County Jail, denied bond and awaiting further legal proceedings with a court appearance set for October 7. Despite his plea of not guilty, the gravity of the accusations stands firm.
Following the incident, Adrian’s Police Chief, Chris Dillon, commended the rapid response of law enforcement and reassured the community of their safety, confirming no further threat related to this case. “Our officers responded swiftly, and the situation is contained,” Dillon stated, extending his condolences to the affected family members.
The Bates County Prosecutor’s Office moved quickly to formalize charges against Curtis, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations. As the investigation continues, local authorities remain focused on uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
In a town as close-knit as Adrian, the ripple effects of such a violent act touch every resident. Community members and local leaders must now navigate the complex emotional and social repercussions as they collectively mourn a familiar face and await justice in the unsettling wake of domestic violence.