Murder charge dismissed in 2011 Jefferson City shooting

Cole County officials have dismissed a murder charge against a man accused of a 2011 deadly shooting.

Prosecutor Mark Richardson confirmed to ABC 17 News he is dismissing the murder charge against Jose Hurtado.

Richardson said there is a “witness issue” in the case and that he will determine later if the charge will be re-filed.

Cole County Sheriff Greg White confirmed Hurtado will be released from jail Tuesday afternoon.

Hurtado was accused of killing Francisco Navarro at Apache Manor, a Jefferson City trailer park, in late 2011.

Investigators think Navarro was shot after trying to break up a fight over a loud muffler.

A second man, Rafel Fuentes, was also picked up for the crime, but his charges were dropped last year.