News – Friday, May 23rd 2025

A rural Dent County man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly firing an AR-15 rifle at two utility workers early Tuesday morning, injuring both, and later telling authorities he believed he was the victim of a conspiracy. According to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office, 49-year-old Jimmy “Shane” Hoornaert was charged with two counts of second-degree assault, armed criminal action, possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), and unlawful use of a weapon while in possession of drugs. The charges stem from an incident that occurred around 4:00 on the morning of May 20, 2025, near his residence on South Highway 19, south of Salem. Deputies responded after Intercounty Electric Cooperative reported that two of their employees had been shot while working to restore power following storm damage. The men were reportedly sitting on a company ATV in a neighboring driveway when gunfire erupted. According to the probable cause statement, Hoornaert fired three rounds from a Del-Ton AR-15. The bullets struck the ATV, and metal fragments injured one worker in the knee and the other in the ear. A medical exam later confirmed that one victim had metal fragments embedded in his leg, while the other had a superficial wound consistent with a burn from a bullet fragment. Initially, Hoornaert told deputies he had fired the weapon “into the air” to scare off people he claimed were harassing him. During a later interview, he admitted to possibly hitting the ATV, he claimed the shooting was accidental and denied intent to harm anyone. Earlier Hoornaert also made claims, alleging that local residents used cloaking devices, night vision goggles, and even an armed child to harass him and steal his cattle. He denied recent methamphetamine use, though deputies reported dilated pupils and bloodshot eyes, and a urine test later returned positive for methamphetamine and amphetamines. A later search of his camper uncovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and four additional firearms, including pistols and a revolver with the serial number removed. Investigators also recovered large quantities of ammunition in various calibers. On May 20, Judge Nathan Kelsaw issued an arrest warrant citing that Hoornaert posed a danger to others. The court set bond at $500,000 with strict conditions, including drug testing and no contact with victims. Hoornaert appeared in custody within 48 hours and was read the charges and his rights during his initial court appearance. A request to reduce bond was denied, and Hoornaert remains in custody at the Dent County Jail. Charges set forth in a criminal complaint are only accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. A bond hearing is scheduled for June 3, 2025, at 10:00 in the morning.

Memorial Day weekend brings Missouri to life with busy state parks, lakes, and attractions. Our state has a lot to offer, especially when the weather is nice. A little planning will go a long way to making Memorial Day weekend activities a success. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds everyone to include safety when they plan their holiday weekend. Everyone should expect more travelers on Missouri’s roadways and an increase in boating traffic on the state’s lakes and rivers. Drivers and boat operators are reminded to always wear a seat belt when traveling in a vehicle, and wear a life jacket when near, on, or in the water. This year’s Memorial Day holiday counting period begins at 6:00 this evening and ends at 11:59 pm., Monday, May 26, 2025. Every available trooper will be on the road or on the water, enforcing Missouri laws and assisting people. The Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during Memorial Day weekend. Over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday weekend, there were 1046 vehicle crashes statewide which injured 486 people and killed 10 (Troopers worked 275 traffic crashes involving seven fatalities and 161 injuries). The Memorial Day weekend is also an unofficial start to the boating season. During the 2024 Memorial Day weekend, there were seven boating crashes which included no fatalities and seven injuries. No one drowned over last year’s Memorial Day weekend. Last year, troopers made 128 driving while intoxicated and six boating while intoxicated arrests. Motorists or boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime should use the Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). For road condition reports, travelers can visit the MoDOT website to view their traveler map, download the MoDOT app, or call 1-888-275-6636. Motorists and boaters are encouraged to do their part to make Missouri’s road and waterways safer.  You can follow the Patrol on “X” for the most current news @MSHPTrooperGHQ