The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed they have found the rifle they believe was used in the shooting death of Clinton Officer Gary Michael.
Michael was killed during a traffic stop that turned deadly Sunday night.
Suspect Ian McCarthy was caught Tuesday night and officially booked into the Henry County jail Wednesday morning.
He’s charged with first-degree murder and felony armed criminal action.
The rifle was found around 3 p.m. Thursday in a creek about two miles north of Clinton.
Officials said they are taking special precautions to retrieve the gun from the water because they don’t want it to rust.
Extended coverage:
McCarthy charged with murder in Clinton cop slaying, booked into county jail
Clinton community comes together after officer is shot, killed in traffic stop turned violent
Photos of fallen Clinton officer in training
Family remembers Clinton, Missouri officer Gary Michael
Photos: Kansas, Missouri officers killed in the line of duty since 1997
