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Shot fired as citizens report being chased in their vehicle
Suspect charged with attempted murder, endangerment of a child
Jose Espino-Cruz
Jose Espino-Cruz

A man was arrested Sunday, March 30, on charges that include attempted murder and aggravated child endangerment after allegedly firing a handgun while chasing a vehicle that carried two adults and a child. Jose Espino-Cruz, 19, was booked into the Barton County Jail with bond set at $500,000.

Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark issued a statement late Monday afternoon.

According to that report, Barton County Communications received a 911 emergency call around 12:09 a.m. Sunday from two citizens inside their vehicle who said they were being chased by a male and a female in a lifted Red Chevy Silverado with black rims.

“The reporting parties advised that the male occupant in the Silverado was armed and brandishing a handgun. Barton County Communications advised both the Great Bend Police Department and the Barton County Sheriff’s Office of the ongoing incident and both departments began to search for the vehicles. During the call, the male subject in the Silverado fired the handgun, which was heard by the Communications Dispatcher and was recorded on the dispatch tapes. The reporting parties advised they lost sight of the vehicle,” the report states.

As law enforcement officers continued to search for the truck, a BCSO deputy located it in the McDonald’s drive-through. Officers from both agencies conducted a “high-risk traffic stop” where the driver, Espino-Cruz, and a female passenger were removed from the vehicle. Officers on scene were notified of a child in the vehicle. After securing both adults from the vehicle, the driver’s handgun was located and seized.

In addition to attempted murder and aggravated child endangerment, charges included felony criminal damage and unlawful discharge of a firearm.

The GBPD news release adds, “This incident was a good example of teamwork by all involved. The PD appreciates the assistance and professionalism from both the Barton County Sheriff’s Office and the Barton County Communications personnel.” 

Anyone with information on this case or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.