Deadly force could be used in Missouri if someone in a home or car feels threatened under a bill approved by the legislature and sent to the governor.
Rep. Marilyn Ruestman (R-Joplin) seeks to assure colleagues worried that the Castle Doctrine might be expanded to allow for the use of deadly force in a public setting, such as a bar or restaurant. Ruestman explains that CCS HCS SCS SBs 62&41 apply only to a home or dwelling and to a vehicle. Under the bill, a person who fears for his life, because someone breaks into his home or car wouldn’t have a duty to retreat and could use deadly force.
Questions arise during House debate about the extent of the bill. Ruestman says the bill would not allow someone who feels threatened in a public place, such as a bar, to use deadly force. The duty to retreat would remain in effect. Also, the bill does not allow the use of deadly force to protect property, such as if someone observed another breaking into her car. Deadly force would only be allowed if the occupant of the dwelling or the vehicle felt threatened or felt another occupant was threatened.
