Officers hunt for shooting suspect

SIKESTON - Authorities are still seeking a 16-year Sikeston resident in connection with a shooting Friday evening.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sikeston Department of Public Safety officers were alerted to a shooting reported at 845 Ruth St. The 15-year-old victim, Corey Simmons, was shot in the left shoulder by the 16-year-old, according to a news release issued by DPS Director Drew Juden.

Simmons, who lives at 302 A S. West St., was initially taken to Missouri Delta Medical Center where he was treated for an injury to his shoulder. After Simmons was stabilized, he was transferred by helicopter to Children's Hospital in St. Louis for treatment by an orthopedist.

The wound was not considered life-threatening, according to DPS officials, although there is concern about damage to the arm.

Authorities searched the residence on Ruth Street and were unable to locate the assailant. Also being sought are several witnesses who were at the residence at the time of the shooting.

As of press time Monday, a motive for the shooting had not determined and the weapon had still not been recovered.

The 16-year-old being sought was released from the Division of Youth Services just three days prior to the incident, according to the press release.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Department of Public Safety at 471-4711.