Increase in Shooting Incidents Fuels Safety Concerns in Kansas City

Police activity at a shooting scene in Kansas City

Kansas City, August 2, 2025

News Summary

Kansas City is witnessing a troubling rise in shooting incidents, raising public safety and crime concerns. A woman was injured in a recent shooting at a major intersection, prompting investigations. Additionally, two men have been charged with serious crimes related to separate shootings. Authorities are actively seeking public assistance and offering rewards for information to combat this violence.

Kansas City is experiencing a surge in shooting incidents, contributing to ongoing concerns surrounding public safety and crime in the area. Most recently, a woman was injured in a shooting at the intersection of Interstate 35 and Antioch Road on Friday evening, an event that has prompted an active police investigation.

The shooting was reported shortly after 6:30 p.m. on Friday. While the woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries, further details about the shooting remain unclear as the situation develops. The northbound exit to Antioch Road was initially closed to accommodate the investigation but has since been reopened. Authorities are currently seeking information from the public, urging anyone with relevant details to contact their local police department or the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). Tips may qualify for cash rewards.

In a separate, earlier incident, a man named Lee W. Burks III, aged 30, has been charged with second-degree murder stemming from the fatal shooting of his mother’s boyfriend, Monroe Mitchell, who was 45 years old. This shooting occurred around 7:20 p.m. on July 27 near East 18th and Prospect Avenue. Although witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, only a few were able to observe the actual shooting. Surveillance footage captured Burks arriving in a black Chevrolet Malibu near the time of the incident.

Burks now faces serious charges, including second-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, illegally discharging a firearm, and unlawful possession of a firearm. These charges could lead to a potential life sentence if convicted. An arrest warrant was issued for Burks, and authorities have stated that he currently remains at large with no bond allowed.

Another individual related to a shooting in the city, Hajji McDonald, has also been charged with second-degree murder and attempted stealing for his involvement in a robbery incident on June 22. Surveillance footage revealed McDonald loitering and later assaulting a dirt bike driver while attempting to steal from him. The dirt bike driver managed to retrieve a firearm during the confrontation and discharged multiple shots, resulting in a death linked to McDonald’s robbery attempt. McDonald was arrested on July 30 and claimed he was trying to intervene during the robbery. Under Missouri law, accomplices in felonies leading to death can be charged with murder, even if they did not fire the weapon.

In another disturbing incident, a shooting occurred on E. 9th and Benton Blvd at 4:35 p.m. near nonprofit organizations, resulting in a fatality after several gunshots were exchanged in an altercation. Emergency responders found a man suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene, but he was pronounced dead upon their arrival. The police continue to investigate the shooting, focusing on witness accounts and the collection of surveillance footage. One individual is currently in custody in connection with this shooting, and authorities are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to a conviction.

The ongoing gun violence in Kansas City raises alarms among residents and officials alike, as the community grapples with safety concerns and increased criminal activity. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing, with authorities encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

FAQ

What recent shooting incident occurred in Kansas City?

A woman was injured in a shooting at the intersection of Interstate 35 and Antioch Road on Friday evening, with non-life-threatening injuries reported.

Who has been charged with murder recently?

Lee W. Burks III has been charged with second-degree murder for allegedly fatally shooting his mother’s boyfriend, Monroe Mitchell. Another individual, Hajji McDonald, has also been charged in connection with a fatal shooting during a robbery attempt on June 22.

How can the public assist in these investigations?

Individuals with information about the shootings are encouraged to contact their local police department or the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477) for potential cash rewards.

What is the community’s response to the recent shootings?

The increase in gun violence has raised safety concerns among Kansas City residents and local officials as they work to address the ongoing issue.

Key Features of Recent Shooting Incidents in Kansas City

Feature Details
Recent Shooting Incident Woman injured at I-35 and Antioch Road
Date and Time Reported on Friday at 6:30 p.m.
Charges Filed Lee W. Burks charged with murder; Hajji McDonald charged with murder related to robbery
Investigation Focus Witness accounts and surveillance footage
Crime Stoppers Hotline 816-474-TIPS (8477)
Reward for Information Up to $25,000 offered for convictions

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Additional Resources

Increase in Shooting Incidents Fuels Safety Concerns in Kansas City

STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
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.

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