ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — St. Joseph residents are being urged to remain aware this week as local authorities investigate an overnight shots-fired incident, the National Weather Service warns of dangerous heat, and multiple highway construction projects continue across Buchanan County.
Police Investigating Overnight Gunfire
The St. Joseph Police Department is investigating a shots-fired incident that occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m. Tuesday in the area of South 33rd Street between Mitchell Avenue and Duncan Street.
Officers responding to the scene located numerous shell casings in the roadway and discovered that at least one parked vehicle had been struck by gunfire.
Witnesses reported seeing two vehicles leave the area at a high rate of speed following the incident.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and investigators continue working to determine what led to the exchange of gunfire.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the St. Joseph Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
Extreme Heat Warning Issued Through Friday
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Buchanan County and much of northwest Missouri through 8:00 p.m. Friday.
Forecasters warn that afternoon temperatures combined with high humidity could produce heat index values approaching 108 degrees.
Officials recommend residents:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest afternoon hours.
- Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings when possible.
- Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those without adequate cooling.
Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly during prolonged exposure to dangerous temperatures.
Several Road Projects Underway This Week
Drivers should also prepare for several traffic impacts across the St. Joseph area.
U.S. Highway 36
Bridge maintenance continues on westbound U.S. Highway 36 between 14th Street and 6th Street, where traffic has been reduced to one lane through Thursday.
Motorists should expect slower travel times, particularly during the morning and evening commute.
Route 59 Closure Begins Wednesday
Beginning Wednesday, Route 59 between West Valley Street and West Cliff Street will close through Friday as crews continue improvements at the Route 59/Route 752/Route U intersection.
Drivers should plan alternate routes and expect temporary detours.
Additional Highway Work
MoDOT has also announced repairs affecting the northbound Interstate 229 off-ramp to westbound U.S. 36, along with planned signal and signage improvements at the Route AC (Pickett Road) intersection.
Motorists are encouraged to remain alert in work zones, obey posted speed limits, and allow extra travel time while crews complete the projects.
WRJE Will Continue Monitoring Developments
WRJE will continue following the police investigation, monitor any additional weather alerts issued by the National Weather Service, and provide updates on construction projects affecting drivers throughout St. Joseph and Buchanan County as new information becomes available.
