Missouri Man Convicted of Double Murder After Shooting Two Women in Front of Children

Stephen Scott, 30, was convicted on eight charges for the 2022 killings of Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes in Qulin, MO. A 7-year-old witnessed the shooting.

Missouri Man Convicted on Eight Counts for 2022 Double Shooting in Qulin

A Butler County jury convicted Stephen Scott on eight criminal charges Friday for the 2022 shooting deaths of Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes in Qulin, Missouri, Law & Crime reports. Scott was 30 years old at the time of the killings.

The Missouri Attorney General's Office announced the verdict in a press release, stating the jury "delivered justice" for the victims' families. Scott was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, one count of abuse or neglect of a child, one count of endangering the welfare of a child creating substantial risk, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Scott had arrived at the Rhodes residence with his then-girlfriend on the day of the killings. Prior to the visit, according to the AG's office, he had stolen a firearm from his grandmother in St. Charles County. A probable cause affidavit obtained by local radio station KWOC alleged that a witness saw Scott arguing with Delcour and Rhodes immediately before he opened fire.

"During the visit, he used that stolen firearm to shoot both Delcour and Rhodes three times each, killing both women," the AG's office stated. Both women were shot in the head.

Two children were present inside the home at the time. According to local CBS affiliate KFVS, a 7-year-old boy witnessed the killings directly, while his 4-year-old brother was also in the home.

After the shootings, Scott fled the scene. He was located at a Walmart in Dexter, where he was attempting to enter the store before it opened. Police were called about a suspicious person trying to get in, and Scott was taken into custody around 5 a.m.

Following his arrest, Scott told investigators he had been under the influence of methamphetamine. He claimed he committed the double murder because he believed his life was in danger, according to the affidavit.

Attorney General Catherine Hanaway issued a statement after the verdict. "Today's verdict delivers a measure of justice for Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes, and I am grateful to our team, the judge, and the jury for their service," Hanaway said. "While nothing can undo the harm caused by these tragic and senseless acts, this outcome ensures accountability and puts a dangerous, violent criminal behind bars where he belongs."

A sentencing date had not been announced as of the time of reporting.

Source: Law & Crime