Toddler shot and killed by cop in hostage situation gone wrong after dad shoots dead mother
A toddler was shot and killed by a Missouri officer during a hostage situation in a Kansas camping trailer, according to officials. According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the horrible incident occurred on March 26 when two-year-old Clesslynn Crawford and her mother were held at gunpoint by her father, Eli Crawford.
Authorities claim Clesslynn Crawford, 2, was shot by a Joplin cop after her mother Taylor Shutte, 27, was killed by the toddler's father. Authorities arrived at the Cherokee County residence at 7:15 pm after a woman called 911 to report domestic violence, according to the KBI. When the cops came, Eli Crawford, 37, opened the door to his trailer and slammed it shut when he saw them. When Clesslynn reopened the door, her mother, Taylor Shutte, 27, raced out of the trailer. Police claimed the situation escalated with the father killing the lady before shooting over 90 bullets at four police officers, who did not retaliate.
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Due to the high level of activity, a number of agencies were dispatched to the location, including the Joplin Police SWAT unit. Clesslynn was killed after a Joplin police officer fired a single shot into the trailer, according to the KBI. Authorities stated her father died from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“This is a horrific outcome to what had already started as a very tragic incident,” Joplin Police Chief Sloan Rowland told The Sun. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families involved and the surrounding community. We ask that you pray for the victims and everyone involved,” Rowland further added.
According to a press statement from the KBI, no law enforcement officers were hurt in the incident, and an investigation is underway. “We ask the public for patience as KBI agents finish their work. The incident is being thoroughly and independently investigated. Once it concludes, the findings will be presented to the Cherokee County Attorney to determine if criminal charges will be filed.” The officers stated that autopsies will be conducted on all three family members.
On Wednesday, Clesslynn was laid to rest. Her obituary characterized her as a "bubbly personality" who was "full of life." "She was very loving and always happy,” it said. “Clesslynn loved Minnie Mouse, her binky and never passed up a chance to dance. She would talk to you for days and was the definition of ‘A BOSS BABY.’ She always loved to cuddle, and although little, she was very fierce. Clesslynn had the eyes of an angel and a smile that could warm anyone’s heart. There was never a dull moment around this sweet girl.”
Unfortunately, this isn't Clesslynn's family's first tragedy. Kynzee and Laynee Norris, her eight- and six-year-old cousins, were purportedly killed in a home fire in February 2020.