Kansas City, Missouri — A 57-year-old man completing grocery deliveries with his wife was shot and killed in a violent road rage confrontation on September 23, according to the Kansas City Police Department and newly released court documents.
Authorities say the victim, identified by family members as Cleveland Wright, was driving near NE Chouteau Trafficway and Gardner Avenue shortly before 8:30 p.m. when another driver opened fire, striking him in the head and causing his vehicle to crash into the median.
Investigators describe the shooting as completely unnecessary, with the shooter later telling police: “I killed a man that did not deserve it.”
Suspect Identified as 20-Year-Old Missouri Man
Police arrested 20-year-old Laken Logan on October 19, nearly one month after the shooting. He is now facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Second-Degree Murder
- Armed Criminal Action
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Logan is currently being held at the Jackson County Jail on a $750,000 bond. His first court appearance is set for Monday at 11 a.m.
Deadly Encounter Stemmed From Road Dispute
Police report that Wright and his wife were performing grocery delivery jobs when they encountered Logan on the roadway. Witness statements and surveillance video suggest that:
- Wright’s vehicle passed closely alongside Logan’s 2025 Chevrolet Trax
- Logan became enraged, turned around, and followed Wright
- Logan confronted Wright at a traffic light, yelling:
“Watch how you’re driving, boy!”
A co-worker riding in Logan’s SUV told detectives that Logan:
- Appeared furious
- Pulled up beside Wright’s vehicle
- Held a pistol in his right hand before firing several shots
The co-worker told Logan to “chill,” but instead, Logan allegedly unleashed multiple gunshots at the back windshield of Wright’s car.
Victim Shot in the Head While His Wife Watched
According to the probable cause report, Wright’s wife confirmed there was a legally owned handgun in the car that evening — a Taurus 9mm — but it was never fired.
She told officers:
- Wright reached for something
- Moments later she heard multiple gunshots
- Wright began bleeding heavily and lost control of the vehicle
Police later recovered a bullet lodged in Wright’s head.
Family members say Wright was a beloved “pawpaw” who worked hard to support his loved ones.
Suspect Allegedly Tried to Hide the Weapon and Fled
Logan gave contradicting stories about what happened to his own pistol — a Taurus G3 9mm — telling officers:
- He threw it in the Missouri River
- He sold it to an unknown man
- Then claimed he sold it to yet another individual
Detectives used surveillance footage to identify Logan’s SUV and track him down after he allegedly returned to work to finish his shift as if nothing happened.
Family Demands Justice
Wright’s loved ones expressed grief and outrage after learning of Logan’s arrest.
According to the reports, one relative posted on Facebook:
“Justice being served for the greatest pawpaw to ever do it. We love and miss you.”
Authorities say the investigation remains active as they continue to gather additional evidence.
Community Voices: How Do You Feel About this Tragedy?
Do you believe road rage violence is increasing in Kansas City?
What changes do you think are needed to prevent deadly confrontations like this?
Share your thoughts and condolences below. Your voice can help raise awareness and support the grieving family during this difficult time.
