LEBANON, Mo. — Community Mourns Pregnant Woman and Unborn Child Killed in Tragic Shooting

LEBANON, Mo. — Community Mourns Pregnant Woman and Unborn Child Killed in Tragic Shooting

LEBANON, Mo. — A profound sense of grief has enveloped the city of Lebanon, Missouri, after a devastating act of violence claimed the lives of 21-year-old Reagan Wilson and her unborn child. The tragic shooting occurred on the evening of Wednesday, June 5, in the 700 block of North Adams Street, prompting an intense investigation and an outpouring of sorrow from the close-knit community.

According to the Lebanon Police Department, officers responded to a call reporting gunfire in the residential neighborhood shortly after 7:30 p.m. When they arrived on scene, they found Wilson suffering from a critical gunshot wound. Emergency medical services quickly transported her to a local hospital, where doctors fought to save her life and that of her unborn baby. Tragically, despite their efforts, both Wilson and her child were pronounced dead.

The heartbreaking news sent shockwaves through the community. Reagan Wilson, described by friends and family as warm, compassionate, and full of life, was just months away from becoming a mother. Her sudden and violent death has left loved ones reeling.

A Promising Life Cut Short

Reagan was eagerly anticipating the birth of her first child and had shared her excitement with friends on social media just weeks before the shooting. Those close to her say she was preparing to move into a new apartment and had begun collecting baby clothes and supplies in anticipation of her child’s arrival.

“She was so excited to become a mom,” said longtime friend Haley Simmons. “She talked about baby names and what colors she wanted for the nursery. She didn’t deserve this. Her baby didn’t deserve this.”

Wilson had recently returned to Lebanon after a short stint living in Springfield and was working part-time while finishing coursework online. Family members say she dreamed of becoming a pediatric nurse, motivated by a deep love for children and a desire to help others.

“Reagan was just the sweetest soul,” her aunt, Melissa Keller, said during a Friday night vigil. “She had so much love to give, and she was going to be an amazing mom. Now, we’ve lost two lives that meant everything to us.”

The Investigation

The Lebanon Police Department has launched a full investigation into the shooting and is working in collaboration with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Laclede County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives spent several hours at the scene collecting evidence, and door-to-door canvassing efforts have been underway to locate witnesses or surveillance footage that might aid in identifying a suspect or motive.

At this time, authorities have not made any arrests and have not publicly released information regarding a person of interest. However, investigators have confirmed that the shooting does not appear to be random and may have involved individuals known to the victim.

“The loss of Reagan and her child is both tragic and unacceptable,” Lebanon Police Chief Brian Arnold said in a statement. “We are following every lead, and our department is fully committed to bringing the person responsible for this horrific act to justice. We urge anyone with even the smallest piece of information to come forward.”

Community members can contact the Lebanon Police Department directly or share anonymous tips via the Laclede County Crime Stoppers line at (417) 532-TIPS (8477).

Community in Mourning

The emotional toll of Reagan Wilson’s death has been felt across Lebanon, where residents have come together to remember her life and demand justice. On Saturday evening, more than 100 people gathered in a candlelight vigil near the scene of the shooting. Attendees lit candles, released balloons, and sang hymns in Wilson’s memory.

A memorial of flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes now lines the sidewalk outside the home where the incident occurred. Friends and strangers alike have visited throughout the week, leaving tributes and praying for peace.

“Lebanon is grieving,” said Pastor Mark Connelly of Faith Tabernacle Church. “But we’re also standing strong together. We will not allow this violence to define our town or erase the love Reagan shared with all of us.”

Seeking Change Amid Heartbreak

The tragedy has also reignited local conversations about violence prevention and the importance of community-based support services, particularly for young women and families in vulnerable situations. Some residents are calling for expanded neighborhood watch programs and greater investment in mental health and domestic violence resources.

“This tragedy reminds us how precious and fragile life is,” said community organizer Janelle Brooks. “We must protect one another and do everything we can to prevent this from happening again.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been established by Reagan’s family to help cover funeral expenses and support awareness efforts in her name. Contributions have poured in from across the state, reflecting the widespread heartbreak and solidarity in the wake of this unthinkable loss.

Final Farewell

Reagan Wilson will be laid to rest in a private ceremony next week, alongside her unborn child, who family members say will be named Elijah. Her family has asked for privacy as they grieve, but expressed deep gratitude for the support shown by the community.

As Lebanon continues to mourn, the search for answers—and justice—remains ongoing. For now, a young woman’s life, full of promise and hope, serves as a painful reminder of how quickly joy can be replaced by tragedy, and how deeply one life can touch an entire town.