Homicide Arrest in Jefferson County

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Jefferson County Sheriff Dave Marshak has announced an arrest and charges in a homicide that occurred on Monday, January 20, 2025. 23-year-old Caleb Hawkins, of De Soto, has been charged with First-Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action in connection with the fatal shooting of 45-year-old Joel Kessler of Imperial.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened around 12:30 p.m. at Hawkins’ home in the 4400 Block of Victoria Station Road. Investigators say Hawkins allegedly allowed Kessler and another individual into his home before retrieving a handgun and shooting Kessler multiple times. Kessler was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second individual was unharmed.

Hawkins was arrested by deputies who responded to the scene and taken to the Jefferson County Jail, where he is being held without bond.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities believe this was an isolated incident and have assured the public there is no ongoing threat.

Stay with KFMO B104 News for updates as more details become available on-air and online.