Bryson Francka, 23, of Springfield, and Kaidan Lamb, 18, of Bolivar, Missouri, face second-degree murder charges, along with first-degree robbery and vehicle tampering, in the December 13, 2025, death of 61-year-old Lyman Taylor. Francka allegedly used a brown airsoft gun while masked to rob Taylor at his Bolivar home, forcing him into a Dodge Caravan, as confirmed by a relative who identified him. Lamb, who dropped Francka off, followed the van, ran over Taylor in the road after a struggle, and later heard Francka brag about the “gangster” act without stopping to help.
Crime Scene Evidence
Police found Taylor’s body partially in a ditch on S 77 Road with head injuries and vehicle trauma, confirmed by autopsy as death by being struck. Nearby evidence included damaged mailboxes, van debris, fresh tire tracks, and a blood trail. Lamb initially lied about accidentally hitting Taylor but admitted to the act during interrogation.
Arrest and Charges
Francka was arrested December 17, 2025, implicating Lamb, leading to his capture; both were booked January 4, 2026, at Polk County Jail. Francka’s bond is $500,000, Lamb’s $250,000 (with an added charge for leaving the accident scene); they were set for court on January 7, 2026.
