Attorney General Hanaway Announces Conviction in Taney County Officer Shooting Case
October 6, 2026October 6, 2026
Today, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that a Taney County jury has found David Viner guilty on all counts for the March 19, 2024 shooting of a law enforcement officer near Kissee Mills, Missouri. The conviction follows a multi‑agency investigation and a successful prosecution by the Attorney General’s Office, assisting Taney County Prosecuting Attorney Brad Hughes.
“Violent attacks on Missouri law enforcement will never be tolerated,” said General Hanaway. “Working shoulder to shoulder with our local law enforcement partners, we are proud to have secured this guilty verdict, ensuring this violent criminal is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Protecting public safety means standing up for the officers who put their lives on the line, and we will not hesitate to pursue those who harm them.”
On March 19, 2024, Viner fired a handgun at a law enforcement officer during an assault investigation at U.S. Highway 160 and Highway 76. The officer was struck twice and transported for medical treatment. Viner fled into the woods and, after a large‑scale search, was found hiding approximately 315 meters from the scene. He had two semi‑automatic firearms and a revolver on his person at the time of arrest.
A jury convicted Viner on three counts of first‑degree assault, three counts of armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and resisting or interfering with arrest for a felony. The jury recommended life in prison, six sentences of 15 years each, a seven-year sentence, and a four-year sentence.
A judge will determine whether Viner’s sentences will run concurrently or consecutively. Formal sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before Judge Jeffrey Merrell.
“Today’s conviction brings justice for Officer Flowers who was shot protecting our community, as well as the Petersons who were trying to help someone they believed was in need,” said Taney County Prosecuting Attorney Brad Hughes. “I appreciate the Attorney General’s office and every single agency that contributed to this case from investigation to prosecution. Together, we held a dangerous individual accountable and protected the citizens of Taney County.”
The case was investigated by the Greene County Sheriff’s Critical Incident Team, including the Greene County Sheriff’s Office and Taney County Sheriff’s Office, with critical support from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Christian County Sheriff’s Office, Stone County Sheriff’s Office, Forsyth Police Department, and Merriam Woods Police Department. The Attorney General’s Office prosecuted the case at the request of the Taney County Prosecutor.
Assistant Attorneys General Aleks Holiman, Katherine Griesbach and Melissa Pierce prosecuted the case, with support from Investigators Deborah Wade and David Southard.
The Attorney General’s Office will continue partnering with prosecutors and law‑enforcement agencies across Missouri. Through this collaborative approach, the office is able to lend experienced attorneys, investigators, and resources to support counties of all sizes in pursuing justice for victims and protecting public safety.
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