Family dispute leads to shooting in Walmart parking lot in Poplar Bluff

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. (KFVS) - The man accused of shooting his brother in the parking lot of the Poplar Bluff Walmart made his first court appearance earlier this week.

39-year-old Rodger Rice faces multiple charges, including first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action and first-degree endangering the welfare of a child.

During an initial court appearance on Monday, May 15, Rice asked for time to find an attorney, according to online court records.

Rice is being held without bond at the Butler County Jail.

A status hearing is scheduled for May 22.

According to Poplar Bluff police, Rice was arguing with his brother around 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 when the dispute escalated to the point that Rice shot his brother once and left the scene.

The victim was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital and then transferred to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

Police said his injury is considered non-life threatening.

Police later found Rodger Rice on Sunday morning. He was arrested and booked into the Butler County Jail.

Police said their investigation is ongoing.

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