9-1-1 calls from Springfield homicide report 30 shots fired

Seven people called 9-1-1 to report a fatal shooting in Springfield last week, according to recordings released Thursday.

Brandon Jamal Dearmond, 30, was shot and killed on Friday, March 24, in the 1300 block of Linden Avenue. He was found on the side of a house next to a lawnmower, according to a police report.

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Police had some trouble in locating him because officers were originally sent to Linden Avenue and Rose Street but couldn’t locate the scene. When officers arrived they began CPR, and medics later arrived and took over the effort to revive him.

He was pronounced dead on the scene. No one had been arrested in connection with the shooting as of Thursday afternoon.

Springfield Police investigators continue to follow leads and interview witnesses, Det. Daniel Dewine said this week.

DETAILS: Springfield leaders: Anti-violence efforts lead to drop in murder

The 9-1-1 calls obtained by the Springfield News-Sun through a public records request.

Most of the callers can be heard saying that more than five gunshots were heard. One caller told dispatchers that he heard at least 30 shots fired.

Several residents mentioned that someone could be heard screaming. Another said the victim was on the side of her house.

“Shot all in his chest! Oh, my God,” the woman told dispatchers.

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Dearmond’s death is the second shooting on Linden Avenue in recent weeks and the second homicide in Springfield this year.

Jimmy L. Dornon, 31, was found on Thursday, March 16, with a gunshot wound on his left side. Then Jeffrey Rife, 36, was killed and another man Ronald McElroy, 43, was wounded in a March 17 shooting on South Clairmont Avenue.


Staying with the story

The Springfield News-Sun has been digging into an increase in violent crime in Springfield for the past two years, including stories covering what residents are doing to combat it and the role stolen guns play.

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