Hallie Elizabeth Phillips was 20 and a student of animal science at the University of Missouri when she died on November 29, 2022. Described as passionate about horses and an accomplished barrel racer, she was born January 17, 2002, in Jefferson City and graduated from Blair Oaks High School in 2020.Those who knew her recalled a vivacious spirit and an infectious smile. On a Tuesday in November she and her live-in boyfriend, 25-year-old Joshua Wilbers, were near Taos, close to Jefferson City. Wilbers had a .22-caliber rifle and told law enforcement he removed the magazine and cycled the bolt action to clear the chamber, then looked down at the firearm when it discharged, striking Hallie in the face.

She was airlifted to the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia and died about 90 minutes later.Hilary’s family arranged organ donation in keeping with her wishes. Wilbers was arrested and charged with first-degree involuntary manslaughter; after a bench trial the judge found him guilty of the class C felony. An October sentencing date was set.

If anyone knew Hallie or has information about her final hours please share what you can.