MSHP says trooper found near Highway 63 died by suicide

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri State Highway Patrol on Friday confirmed the name of a trooper who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

MSHP said Cpl. Gary T. Daniels was found Thursday with a gunshot wound on Callaway County Road 395, which is near Highway 63 in an area north of Jefferson City. Daniels was appointed to the patrol on July 1, 2025, the release says.

MSHP wrote in a Thursday release that no foul play was suspected.

The sheriff’s office received a 911 call at 2:55 p.m., the release says. Crime scene tape was seen at the scene by an ABC 17 News photographer, and first responders vehicles lined the road in that area.

ABC 17 News typically does not report on suicides; but it will here due to the public nature of the death.

Those who are experiencing thoughts of self-harm can call 988.