PARK HILLS, Mo. — A Park Hills man is facing multiple felony charges following an investigation into the theft of dyed diesel fuel from railroad locomotives in the St. Louis area, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Authorities said Donald Barry McKinney, 50, was arrested on Jan. 8 after investigators linked him to a series of fuel thefts involving locomotives operating in and around St. Louis. The investigation was led by the patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control, with assistance from the Terminal Railroad Police Department of St. Louis.
According to investigators, the case began in December 2025 after law enforcement received information suggesting that McKinney, who was employed in the railroad industry, was stealing dyed diesel fuel from locomotives. Dyed diesel is restricted fuel typically used for off-road or industrial purposes, and its theft and misuse can carry serious penalties.
Surveillance conducted by authorities reportedly confirmed McKinney’s movements and matched them with documented fuel thefts from locomotives in Sauget, Illinois. Investigators said the evidence gathered during the surveillance phase supported suspicions that the fuel was being removed without authorization and potentially resold or used unlawfully.
On Jan. 8, investigators located McKinney in the Leadwood area and attempted to question him about the thefts. Authorities said McKinney resisted arrest during the encounter and allegedly destroyed potential evidence related to the case. Despite the resistance, officers were able to take him into custody without reported injuries.
McKinney was transported to the St. Francois County Jail, where he remains held. The St. Francois County prosecuting attorney has formally charged him with receiving stolen property, a Class D felony; tampering with physical evidence in a felony prosecution, a Class E felony; and resisting or interfering with arrest for a felony, also a Class E felony.
Court records show that McKinney is being held on a $200,000 bond. No court appearance date has been publicly announced as of this report.
Investigators noted that the case remains active, and additional charges could be filed depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are also looking into whether any additional individuals may have been involved in the theft or distribution of the stolen fuel.
Anyone with information related to the theft or sale of dyed diesel fuel involving McKinney is encouraged to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. Tips may assist investigators as they continue to examine the scope of the alleged activity.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the charges are allegations only, and McKinney is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
