Kansas City, MO — The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) is investigating after a Kansas City police officer shot an individual during a disturbance call on Tuesday afternoon. Officials say the person who was shot remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Disturbance Leads to Officer Response
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. in the 3500 block of Independence Avenue, where officers were dispatched following reports of a disturbance involving gunfire.
Police say that when they arrived, they encountered a person who was shooting their firearm into the air. Officers initially deployed a taser in an attempt to subdue the individual. Moments later, another officer fired their weapon, striking the person.
“The individual was taken to the hospital in critical condition. No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident,” the Missouri State Highway Patrol said in a statement.
According to Yahoo News, detectives immediately began processing the scene while the MSHP’s Division of Drug and Crime Control took over the investigation, as is standard in officer-involved shootings in Missouri.
Evidence Collection and Ongoing Investigation
Police confirmed that multiple shell casings were recovered at the scene. The firearm believed to have been discharged by the suspect was also taken into evidence.
“Detectives are working to determine what led up to the encounter and whether the suspect’s weapon was discharged prior to police arrival,” investigators noted.
Officers cordoned off Independence Avenue for several hours as investigators collected forensic evidence and interviewed witnesses who were in nearby businesses and vehicles when the shooting occurred.
Protocol and Oversight
Under Missouri law, officer-involved shootings are automatically referred to the Missouri State Highway Patrol to ensure an independent investigation. Once complete, the case will be reviewed by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office to determine if the officer’s actions were justified.
Officials have not yet released the identity of the individual shot or the officer involved. The Kansas City Police Department stated that the officer has been placed on routine administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The Highway Patrol will conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting,” said an MSHP spokesperson.
Community Response
Residents in the area expressed concern over the increasing number of violent incidents along Independence Avenue but also thanked officers for responding quickly to prevent further harm.
Community leaders urged transparency from law enforcement as the investigation continues, emphasizing the need for clarity in officer-involved incidents.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has not released any additional information but confirmed that updates will be provided once the initial findings are complete.
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