Flags at all government buildings in Jasper and Newton Counties will fly at half-staff today, March 15, in honor of Joplin Police Corporal Benjamin Cooper.
Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe issued a proclamation Monday for the flags to fly at half-staff on behalf of Gov. Mike Parson who’s on a trade mission to the United Kingdom.
Cooper was shot and killed while responding to a disturbance call on March 8.
Funeral for Benjamin Cooper
Cooper's funeral is today at 1 at the Leggett and Platt Athletic Center on the MSSU campus in Joplin.
The public is invited to line Main St. from 3rd to 19th from 3 to 4 to show support as the funeral procession passes through. Duquesne Rd., between Newman Rd. and Tall Grass Drive, will be closed from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Funeral for Jake Reed
Officer Jake Reed, who was shot and killed in the same incident, will also be buried this week. A visitation will be held Thursday, March 17, from 4 to 8 at the Leggett and Platt Athletic Center, and funeral services are planned for Friday, March 18, at 1 at the same location.