OZARK, Mo. – On Wednesday, law enforcement personnel from across the Ozarks gathered to pay tribute to two Christian County deputies who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. The solemn procession concluded at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Ozark.
The Christian County Sheriff’s Office had previously identified the two deputies as Michael Hislope, 40, and Gabriel Ramirez, 30. Deputy Hislope had served with the sheriff’s office since October 2019, while Deputy Ramirez had joined in March 2025.
Deputy Gabriel Ramirez was killed during a traffic stop south of Highlandville on Monday afternoon, where he encountered Richard Bird, the man identified as his assailant. Following the shooting, Bird fled the scene, prompting an extensive manhunt. A Missouri State Highway Patrol helicopter located a heat signature in a wooded area of Stone County, leading to a confrontation along State Highway 160 near Reeds Spring that resulted in both Bird and Deputy Hislope losing their lives during the exchange of gunfire.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, a fund has been established through the Christian County Deputy Sheriffs Association to support the families of the fallen deputies and assist the two injured deputies. Donations can be made via their official Venmo account at @ChristianCoDeputySheriffAssoc or through their website, as well as in-person at the Christian County Sheriff’s Office located at 110 West Elm Street in Ozark. Sheriff Brad Cole has requested that donors indicate whether their contributions are intended for the families of the deceased, the injured deputies, or a combination of all involved.
This outpouring of support highlights the community’s appreciation for the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers as they put their lives on the line to protect the public.