Joplin Police Department releases name of 9-month-old victim as death investigation continues

(From the Joplin Police Department)

As the investigation into the death investigation has continued, the deceased has been identified as Anthony Stapp, a nine-month-old male. 

On Friday, August 8th, an autopsy was completed at Frontier Forensics in Kansas City, Kansas. The official results of the autopsy are still pending. 

This case is still an open and active investigation. As additional information becomes available it will be released.

Previous news release

On August 7, 2025, around 8:40 am, the Joplin Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call for an unknown trouble at 2640 E 34th Street, Oxford Park Apartments. 

Joplin Police Officers, Joplin Fire Department, METS Ambulance, and Newton County Ambulance District were dispatched to that address. 

Upon the arrival of emergency responders, it was discovered that a 9-month-old was unconscious and not breathing. 

Despite rescue efforts by the emergency responders, the child was pronounced deceased at the scene. Joplin Police Detectives responded to the scene and began an initial investigation. 

At this time, investigators are still on the scene and continue to investigate this incident. Investigators are working with the Coroner’s Office to have an autopsy scheduled. Police Department 303 E 3rd Street Joplin, Missouri 64801 417-623-3131.

Currently, this is considered an open and active investigation. No names will be released at this time. As additional information becomes available it will be released.