Investigators release a motive in deadly shooting on Ozark, Mo. square

OZARK, Mo. (KY3) - Investigators say an affair led to the shooting of a man on the square in Ozark on Saturday.

Joe Newburn, 57, of Ozark, died in the shooting. Matthew Dedmon, 47, of Ozark, faces a first-degree murder charge in the case. A Christian County judge has yet to set a bond for Dedmon.

The shooting happened Saturday near the historic courthouse in the 100 block of West Church Street around 1 p.m. Investigators say Dedmon drove his truck to the square to contact his wife. Once he arrived, they say Dedmon observed his wife with Newburn in a restaurant. Investigators say Dedmon confronted Newburn, knowing he and his wife were having an affair. Investigators say that is when Dedmon shot Newburn three times.

Newburn died at a Springfield hospital from gunshot wounds.

Investigators uncovered the gun used in Dedmon’s truck. Police arrested Dedmon shortly after the shooting.

Investigators say Dedmon told them he was a pastor at Heritage Baptist Church in Rogersville.

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