Gov. Parson activates Missouri National Guard to protect citizens from violence

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Gov. Mike Parson activated the Missouri National Guard Saturday. Parson signed Executive Order 20-11 to declare that a state of emergency in Missouri exists due to civil unrest.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of George Floyd. We are also saddened by the acts of violence that have transpired across our nation and state in response to this event. At this time, we are taking a proactive approach to protect Missouri and its people,” Parson said in a statement.

This comes as riots swept across different cities around the country, including Minneapolis where Floyd was killed.

There have been several peaceful protests around the state of Missouri, including one at the Boone County Courthouse.

A press release sent out by Parson's office said in part, "Despite the many peaceful assemblies, there are other events occurring throughout Missouri that have created conditions of distress and hazards to the safety, welfare, and property of residents and visitors in our communities that are beyond the capacities of local authorities."

You can find Executive Order 20-11 below: