News Summary
Marquis Ponder, a security guard for the Center School District, has been charged with second-degree murder after a fatal shooting incident in Kansas City. The confrontation left 30-year-old Levon J. Quinn dead, prompting discussions about armed violence and security personnel responsibilities. Ponder has been relieved of his duties, and the investigation continues as the community seeks answers and safety assurances.
Kansas City – Marquis Ponder, a security guard affiliated with the Center School District, has been charged with second-degree murder following a fatal shooting incident on Friday. Ponder faces additional charges for unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action in Jackson Court Circuit Court.
The shooting unfolded near Westport Road and Broadway Boulevard, prompting immediate law enforcement response. A motorcycle rider in the vicinity reported hearing a gunshot and witnessed Ponder brandishing a firearm while another man, described as Black, fled the scene. Shortly thereafter, the witness observed a white SUV—identified as the victim’s vehicle—crash, knocking the motorcycle rider off his bike at the intersection.
First responders arrived on the scene to assist the motorcyclist and discovered the SUV driver, identified as 30-year-old Levon J. Quinn, bleeding and unresponsive. Quinn was rushed to a hospital, where he was unfortunately pronounced dead due to the injuries sustained.
Surveillance footage collected from the area appears to show Ponder engaged in a confrontation with Quinn before shooting him in the back as he walked away. Observers noted that Ponder was wearing a distinctive blue polo shirt marked with “Center School District” on the left side and “Officer Ponder” on the right. This description played a crucial role in identifying him as the suspect when law enforcement personnel arrived.
A member of the Center School District’s security team confirmed Ponder’s identity after reviewing the surveillance footage, linking him directly to the incident. The shooting took place over the holiday weekend, and officials from the district confirmed that the incident did not involve any students from the Center School District.
In light of the incident, Ponder has been relieved of his duties and will not be returning to work at the Center School District, which emphasizes the safety and well-being of its students and community. Ponder is expected to make his first court appearance regarding the charges on Tuesday afternoon.
This case marks a serious event in the Kansas City area, calling attention to issues around armed violence and the responsibilities of security personnel. As investigations continue, community members and law enforcement agencies alike are awaiting further details on the incident and its implications.
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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
