Investigation Continues in Homicide

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - The investigation into the death of 45-year-old Clara B. Blaxton continues in Arkansas.

The Arkansas State Police (ASP) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is probing the death of the Independence County, Arkansas woman. Blaxton’s body was discovered following an officer-involved shooting on December 8, 2024, in Festus. The incident began around 11 a.m. when Festus Police responded to reports of an active shooter at a White Castle restaurant.

The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Jarrett W. Cousins of Bradford, Arkansas, fled the scene in a Dodge Ram truck. Officers from Festus and Crystal City pursued Cousins until the vehicle struck a concrete median, coming to a stop near a shopping center on Truman Boulevard in Crystal City. Exiting the truck in body armor and armed with multiple firearms, Cousins fired at officers, who returned fire, striking him. Cousins was transported to a hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition.

Inside Cousins’ vehicle, officers found Blaxton deceased in the front passenger seat. Her body has been sent to the Missouri Crime Lab for examination. No officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting and has charged Cousins with First-Degree Assault or Attempt – Serious Physical Injury or Special Victim and Armed Criminal Action. He is being held without bond.

JCSO requested assistance from ASP CID in investigating Blaxton’s death, which authorities believe occurred in Arkansas. ASP CID is preparing a case file for the Independence County prosecutor to determine if additional charges will be filed.