Lebanon Police Chief Addresses Surge in Gun Violence, Domestic Incidents, and Public Concerns
LEBANON, MO — In a candid and wide-ranging interview with Lebanon Now, Police Chief Jerry Harrison addressed growing public concern following a series of recent shootings in the city, including a tragic homicide that claimed the life of a young woman and her child.
Chief Harrison confirmed that Lebanon has experienced eight firearm-related incidents in the past 12 months, including two homicides, two assaults, two disturbances, one accidental discharge, and three involving suicide or attempted suicide. Though the recent concentration of violence has rattled the community, Harrison urged residents to step back and look at the broader picture.
“Lebanon is still a safe place,” Harrison said. “What makes the recent events so disturbing is the level of tragedy involved. But when you look at it in the context of a full year, these events, while heartbreaking, are not the norm.”
When asked about the investigation into the murder of Reagan Wilson and her unborn child, Harrison declined to provide specific details, citing the integrity of the investigation and the need to protect potential evidence, witnesses, and the jury pool.
“These cases are built brick by brick,” he said. “We work closely with the prosecutor’s office to ensure we’re bringing a solid case forward. That takes time—lab testing, forensic evidence, interviews. We can't afford to rush it or get it wrong.”
Harrison acknowledged the frustration the public often feels when police remain silent during high-profile cases. “Silence doesn’t mean inaction,” he said. “But unlike speculation on social media, our words carry legal and ethical weight. We can’t risk compromising justice by speaking out of turn.”
The Chief also addressed the May 5 incident on North Monroe, where a domestic disturbance ended in a shooting and suicide. That investigation remains open, though it is nearing completion. A separate shooting on Audrey Street is also ongoing.
As of now, there is no evidence that any of the recent incidents are connected. “Each one appears to be isolated and specific to the people involved,” Harrison said.
Turning to prevention, Harrison emphasized the role of community relationships in keeping Lebanon safe, particularly when it comes to suicide and domestic violence.
“Suicide is a community issue,” he said. “People who complete suicide don’t want to die—they want the pain to stop. We need to treat mental health with the same urgency and compassion we treat physical injuries.”
He encouraged residents to recognize warning signs like social withdrawal, substance abuse, sudden mood shifts, or talk of death. Those concerned are urged to call 988, the National Suicide Crisis Lifeline, or in emergencies, 911.
On domestic violence, Harrison acknowledged that it’s a recurring issue for police. “It’s not a law enforcement problem. It’s a people problem,” he said. He urged the community to look for signs such as unexplained injuries, isolation, or controlling behavior. Missouri’s mandatory arrest law requires police to act when probable cause of assault is present, but Harrison stressed a compassionate, trauma-informed approach.
“We try to connect victims with resources, whether that’s housing, counseling, or life skills. But if force is required to protect someone, we will take that step.”
Despite calls for more transparency, Harrison was clear: “Justice is our number one priority. And if that means we can’t say everything people want to hear, that’s a price I’m willing to pay.”
To submit a confidential tip, residents can call the Lebanon Police Department’s tip line at (417) 991-2344 or email policetips@lebanonmo.org.
As Harrison concluded, “Reagan Wilson was stolen from our community. We can’t undo that loss. But we can—and we will—seek justice.”
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