Investigation continues into shooting.death in rural Newton County

(From the Newton County Sheriff's Office)

On November 15, 2025 at approximately 8:53AM, the Newton County Central Dispatch Center received a call of a shooting that had occurred at 7341 Emma Lane in rural Newton County. 

Newton County Deputies responded along with Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Conservation, Newton County Ambulance District, and Redings Mill Fire Protection District. 

Upon arrival at the address, law enforcement found a deceased male at the location with an apparent gun shot wound. The deceased male has been identified as Ernest Darby, 51-year-old male, that lived at this residence.

Detectives with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office were called in to process the scene and follow up on leads. At this time, no arrests have been made, and this incident is still under investigation. An autopsy has been scheduled for later this week. 

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to follow up on leads with this death investigation, and we are asking for the public’s assistance. If anyone has any information about this incident, we ask that you contact the Newton County Sheriff’s Office at 417-451-8333 and ask to speak to a deputy.