By David Lohr

August 14, 2007

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NEOSHO, Mo. (Crime Library)  — Police have identified Eiken Elam Saimon, 52, as the gunman who opened fire inside the First Congregational Church of Neosho on Sunday afternoon, killing three people and wounding several others.

During Saimon's 1:00 p.m. arraignment yesterday, prosecutors filed three charges of first-degree murder; four counts of first-degree assault, one count of felonious restraint and one count of armed criminal action. Saimon entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. According to Newton County Prosecutor Scott Watson, a fifth charge of assault is pending.

During a Monday press briefing, police identified the dead as Kernal Rehobson, 44, the pastor of the congregation, and two church elders, Intenson Rehobson, 44, and Kuhpes Jesse Ikosia, 53. At this time it is not known whether Kernal and Intenson were related.

David McCracken

According to Neosho Police Chief Dave McCracken, at least five other people were injured during the shooting. Four of those victims have been identified as Melihna Tarra, Handy Kendey, Dahnny Jack and Jim Handy. All of the victims, three of whom remain hospitalized in fair condition, are expected to recover.

"There may be additional charges, as there may be additional victims," Newton County Prosecuting Attorney Scott Watson said during a press conference held yesterday at the Neosho Neighborhood Rec Center.

Eiken Elam Saimon

Police will not comment on a motive; however, they did say that Saimon is a suspect in an alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old female relative. The assault allegations reportedly led to an altercation at the church on Saturday between Saimon and a family that belongs to the congregation. It is not yet clear whether those individuals were present during Sunday's shooting.

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Gunman Kills Three During Rampage in Missouri Church

Contact David Lohr  at           crimewriter74@adelphia.net

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