Joplin man bound over for trial on murder charge

Stephen Thompson, 56, Joplin, waived his preliminary hearing today and was bound over for trial on charges of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action and domestic assault, in connection with the June 10 killing of a woman who lived at his home and the shooting of his wife.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 9 a.m. August 24.

The crime was described in this Joplin Police Department news release:

On June 10, 2015, at 1227 the Joplin Police Department responded to a report of shots fired at 4223 West 26th Place. An adult male suspect submitted to officers upon their arrival. He was arrested without incident. Officers ascertained that the crime scene includes 4215 W. 26th Place as well as 4223 West 26th Place. An adult female victim was found deceased and another adult female victim was transported by ambulance to Freeman Hospital.

Stephen R. Thompson has been formally charged with the following; Murder 1st Degree, Armed Criminal Action (two counts), and Domestic Assault - 1st Degree- with Serious Physical Injury. Thompson’s bond amount is $1,000,000.00.

Victim #1 is identified as Carissa L. Girard, 38, 4215 West 26th Place. Carissa was found to be deceased upon the arrival of officers.

Victim #2 is identified as Kristina S. Thompson, 38, 4215 West 26th Place. Kristina was transported by ambulance to Freeman Hospital and continues to receive medical treatment.