Multiple law enforcement agencies on the lookout for “armed and dangerous” suspect

Although a manhunt in Maries County for a suspect said to be armed and dangerous has been called off, multiple local and state law enforcement agencies are still on the lookout.

Authorities are looking for Vernon Phelps, 48, who is now on Missouri’s Most Wanted List as of Thursday afternoon.

The situation began around midnight Thursday when Maries County deputies tried to stop a driver for a traffic violation. That led to a chase between the driver, identified as Vernon Phelps, and deputies. The chase, which started in Maries County, also went through Osage and Miller Counties.

The suspect’s vehicle was later found wrecked and abandoned in an area of Miller County west of Meta. Deputies searched on foot while the Highway Patrol searched in the air by helicopter for several hours. The manhunt was called off around 6 a.m.

“We’re not sure how he evaded us,” said Maries County Sheriff Detective Scott John. “It’s possible he bunkered down in an out-building, or an old shed, or a barn or something that we just couldn’t locate him in. He is considered armed and dangerous.”

Phelps has felony warrants out for his arrest, and according to the Maries County Sheriff’s Office is a parole absconder. He’s a suspect in several vehicle thefts; Thursday’s chase is apparently the second Phelps has been involved in over the past five weeks.

Det. John said while an active search did not continue into Thursday night, many law enforcement agencies have detectives and confidential informants working to find him.

“A lot of our leads are coming from other law enforcement agencies, which is why we got together and shared information today,” he said. “It filled in a few holes for us and for them by sharing information. They’re all going back out tonight and guys are hitting the streets.”

Phelps is described as 5’10”, weighing 215 lbs with brown hair and brown eyes.

Authorities are asking people to contact their local law enforcement agency if they have any information regarding Phelps’ whereabouts.