SPRINGFIELD, Missouri — July 2, 2026 — Two people died following a shooting in a parking garage at Mercy Hospital Springfield early Thursday morning. Authorities have identified the deceased as 60-year-old Russell Ecton and 59-year-old Jacqueline Ecton of Springfield.
According to the Springfield Police Department, officers responded at approximately 4:50 a.m. to reports of a shooting on the second level of the Mercy Hospital parking garage at 1235 E. Cherokee Street.
When officers arrived, they found Russell Ecton deceased at the scene from what investigators believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Jacqueline Ecton was found with life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital’s emergency department, where she later died despite medical efforts to save her.
Following a preliminary investigation, detectives said they believe Russell Ecton fatally shot Jacqueline Ecton before taking his own life. Officials have stated that no other suspects are being sought and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Mercy Hospital confirmed that Jacqueline Ecton was employed as a caregiver at the facility. In a statement, hospital officials expressed condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, adding that counseling, spiritual care, and other support services were being made available to employees affected by the tragedy.
The Springfield Police Department’s homicide unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including reviewing evidence and establishing the events leading up to the incident.
At this time, authorities have not publicly disclosed additional details regarding a possible motive.
The deaths of Russell and Jacqueline Ecton have deeply affected both the Springfield community and Mercy Hospital staff. Jacqueline is being remembered by colleagues as a dedicated caregiver whose loss has been felt throughout the hospital.
The investigation remains active, and additional information may be released as detectives complete their inquiry.