Documents say man was racing before chase that killed Osage Beach police officer

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. (KMIZ)

A man charged in the death of an Osage Beach police officer told investigators that he was racing a friend before the high-speed chase that claimed the officer's life.

Christopher Aaron Bishop Wehmeyer, 23, of Camdenton, was charged Saturday with aggravated fleeing from a traffic stop under a law that went into effect last week. The law creates harsher penalties for those who run from police traffic stops.

When investigators interviewed him after the chase, Wehmeyer allegedly told them he was racing. He told them he saw police lights in his mirrors but chose not to stop, the statement says.

The chase reached speeds over 100 mph as it wound through Camden County. It ended when Osage Beach officer Phylicia Carson lost control on Route A and crashed. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities later caught up to Wehmeyer and arrested him.

Wehmeyer remained jailed Tuesday without bond in Camdenton. His initial hearing was set for Tuesday morning. He appeared in person.

Wehmeyer will be in the Camden County Courthouse on Friday at 8:30 a.m. for a bond hearing.

A vigil for Carson is planned for Tuesday night with funeral services and visitation Thursday.

Check back for updates to this developing story.