Deandra Patterson Charged with Murder After Fatal Whitener Street Shooting Leaves 22-Year-Old Woman Dead in Cape Girardeau
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — Authorities have made an arrest in connection with the fatal shooting that took place on Friday afternoon, May 9, 2025, in the 1500 block of Whitener Street, a quiet residential area that was rocked by sudden violence. The incident has left one young woman dead and another man recovering from a gunshot wound.
Following a swift investigation, the Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad confirmed that Deandra Leeann Patterson, 27, of Cape Girardeau, has been formally arrested and charged in connection with the deadly encounter. Patterson is now facing multiple felony charges, which include:
Class A Felony – Murder in the Second Degree
Felony – Armed Criminal Action
Class C Felony – Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Patterson is being held at the Cape Girardeau County Jail on a $1 million cash-only bond, indicating the severity of the allegations and the perceived risk of flight or further danger to the community.
Timeline of Events: A Rapidly Unfolding Crime Scene
According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, officers responded to a report of gunfire at approximately 12:52 p.m. on Friday. Upon arrival at the scene on Whitener Street, they discovered a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. The injury was described as non-life-threatening, and the victim was quickly transported to a local hospital for treatment.
However, within minutes, a second victim was reported at an area emergency room. This individual, later identified as 22-year-old Micah Ledbetter of Cape Girardeau, had arrived by private vehicle—a detail that investigators say may be key in piecing together the timeline and context of the incident.
Despite emergency efforts, Ledbetter succumbed to her injuries while receiving medical treatment. Her death sent shockwaves through the community, particularly among friends, family, and former classmates who remember her as a vibrant, caring young woman with a bright future ahead.
Investigation and Arrest
The Cape Girardeau/Bollinger County Major Case Squad immediately took over the investigation, securing the crime scene and launching a coordinated effort to determine what led to the shooting. Investigators worked around the clock, collecting physical evidence, canvassing the neighborhood for surveillance footage, and interviewing potential witnesses.
Through this intensive investigative process, Deandra Patterson emerged as a suspect. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive, but sources close to the investigation say the shooting may have stemmed from a domestic dispute or personal conflict that escalated into deadly violence.
The charges filed against Patterson reflect both the tragic loss of life and the illegal possession and use of a firearm. Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating that justice for Ledbetter and her grieving family will be pursued vigorously.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
News of the shooting has rattled Cape Girardeau residents, who are now grappling with another instance of gun violence in their community. Neighbors near the scene reported hearing “several loud bangs” just before police arrived and described the area as typically quiet and family-oriented.
“Micah didn’t deserve this. She was a beautiful soul, always helping others and had so many plans,” said one family friend who asked not to be named. “It’s just heartbreaking.”
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident—particularly those who may have witnessed the shooting or seen suspicious activity before or after—to contact the Cape Girardeau Police Department or reach out anonymously through CrimeStoppers.
The case remains active and under investigation, and officials have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests or charges.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Cape Girardeau Police Department at (573) 335-6621 or submit a tip to CrimeStoppers at (573) 339-6312.