Kansas City, MO — A tragic overnight shooting in Kansas City has left a 14-year-old boy dead and a teenage girl injured, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
Shooting Occurred Near East 97th Street
According to the Kansas City Police Department, officers were called at approximately 12:15 a.m. to the area of East 97th Street and Woodland Lane, just south of Bannister Road, following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, officers were flagged down by a bystander who reported that several people had been involved in a fight that escalated to a shooting in a nearby parking lot.
“All of the people involved in the shooting left the scene before police arrived,” the KCPD noted.
Victims Identified and Hospitalized
The 14-year-old boy, later identified as Teandre Gibson, and a girl under the age of 16 were transported to a hospital with gunshot injuries. Sadly, Teandre Gibson later died, while the girl is reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.
At this time, police do not have preliminary information on what led up to the shooting, and no suspect is currently in custody.
Community Reacts to Rising Violence
The incident comes amid growing concerns over youth safety in Kansas City. Rosilyn Temple, founder of KC Mothers in Charge, spoke to FOX4 about the impact of such shootings:
“Kids are kids and should be able to be kids. Well, that’s not the case here in Kansas City, where the kids are dying,” she said.
Temple emphasized parental involvement:
“So now 14 in the last week, 16, and is another child shot? So I think we as parents, we got to get really more nosy and it’s getting more and better into what our kids are doing.”
She also highlighted the potential role of legislation:
“I can’t do the legislation, but we’ve got to get some laws passed. So all the organizations, all the legislation I want to step is get the boots really on the ground. Let’s make a change with them. We got to do better.”
Officials Urge Community Vigilance
Additionally, Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson issued a statement expressing concern and pledging support for law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Authorities continue to investigate, and anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact Kansas City Police Department.
What are your thoughts on this tragic incident? Share your views in the comments.
