Tragic Shooting of Marine Veteran

A decorated Marine veteran was tragically shot in his home during a sale arranged through Facebook Marketplace. In his final moments, he managed to describe the attacker to police over the phone, and, heartbreakingly, he sent a goodbye email to his family.

Michael Ryan Burke, aged 42, lost his life on Sunday in Columbia, Missouri, during a robbery involving his cell phone, according to local law enforcement.

Four suspects, all 18 years old and one being a juvenile, have since been arrested and face murder charges for Burke’s shocking death.

Jerry Reifeis, a friend and college fraternity brother, spoke about Burke’s last moments in a recent interview. He expressed disbelief that Burke was killed in such a senseless crime but noted that the veteran’s bravery during those moments mirrored the same courage that led him to serve in the military.

According to Reifeis, Burke was persistent enough to call 911 and provide details about his attackers. He also texted his mother and sister, saying, “I’m dying and I love you,” before being taken to a local hospital, where he subsequently passed away.

“That was just Ryan,” Reifeis reflected. “He always prioritized others and wanted them to know how he felt. Even in his last moments, he didn’t want to go without ensuring we had the information needed to seek justice, and he wanted to express his love for us.”

Burke attended the University of Missouri, where he studied psychology and sociology, believing that education was a significant contribution to society. He once mentioned, “I am grateful for the education I received, because in my experience it is the training of the mind, rather than the weapon, that makes us dangerous.”

Besides his military service, Burke was involved in missionary work worldwide, including in Uganda. He had shared on social media about his efforts against human trafficking.

The suspects charged with Burke’s murder—Alexis Bauman, Kobe Aust, Joseph Crane, and the unnamed juvenile—face multiple charges, including second-degree murder, first-degree robbery, and burglary. Crane has additional charges for unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action.

Currently, Bauman, Aust, and Crane are being held without bail at the Boone County Jail, while the juvenile is detained in the Boone County Juvenile Department.