Missouri – In a harrowing case in Missouri, a 39-year-old man, identified as B. Johnson, has been charged with first-degree murder after he admitted to fatally shooting his pregnant 30-year-old girlfriend, identified as R. Richmond, in the head and stomach just days after learning about the pregnancy.
Johnson surrendered himself to police and confessed to killing Richmond inside her home. Authorities said Johnson turned himself in at the police department last week, claiming responsibility for the killing that had taken place the previous day. His confession led officers to the victim’s home, where they discovered Richmond’s lifeless body. According to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Johnson now faces charges of first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and three counts of tampering with physical evidence. He remains in custody without bond at the county jail.
Court documents and statements from Richmond’s family reveal that she had recently shared the news of her pregnancy with Johnson. Her sister said Richmond had been hopeful and excited about becoming a mother, describing her as someone who was “looking forward to welcoming the child.” However, it appears the news sparked a violent confrontation between the couple.
According to police statements, Johnson had allegedly demanded that Richmond “get rid” of the baby. The confrontation reportedly escalated, ending with him shooting her in the forehead and stomach — fatal wounds that claimed not only Richmond’s life, but also that of her unborn child. After the killing, Johnson attempted to cover his tracks. He told investigators that he had disposed of his cell phone, a firearm, and a knife used or associated with the crime. Prosecutors charged him with tampering with this physical evidence, adding further weight to the case against him.
Johnson’s confession came unprompted on Thursday, prompting county police to alert the police department. When officers arrived at Richmond’s home, they found her lying dead inside, confirming the account Johnson had given just hours before. Richmond was found with gunshot wounds to the forehead and abdomen. Authorities say there was no sign that she had been able to defend herself. Police have not yet released a full motive but confirmed the pregnancy was central to the investigation. Johnson reportedly told Richmond he wanted her to terminate the pregnancy. Following her refusal or disclosure of the child, the fatal incident occurred.
Johnson was no stranger to law enforcement. According to court records, he had previously been on probation for felony resisting arrest and had a criminal history that included assault on law enforcement officers and other resisting arrest charges. His prior convictions raise questions about whether more could have been done to prevent the tragedy. Despite voluntarily surrendering and admitting to the crime, Johnson is expected to face the full extent of Missouri’s harsh penalties for first-degree murder — a conviction that could result in life imprisonment without parole.
Richmond’s death has devastated her family and the local community, particularly given the violent nature of her killing and the loss of her unborn child. Investigators continue to collect evidence, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact police or CrimeStoppers. The case is a grim reminder of the dangers some women face during pregnancy and how domestic violence can escalate to unthinkable acts of cruelty.
