Kansas City, MO, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Arel Dawkins has been charged with first-degree murder for the shooting death of his pregnant ex-girlfriend, Braisen Cain. The incident took place in Northeast Kansas City, where Dawkins allegedly ran over Cain before shooting her multiple times. Community leaders are raising concerns about rising domestic violence-related homicides and the need for better resources for victims. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Cain’s five children, highlighting the impact of this tragedy on the family and community.
Kansas City, MO – Arel Dawkins, 36, has been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action for the fatal shooting of his pregnant ex-girlfriend, Braisen Cain, 42. The incident occurred on Morrell Avenue in Northeast Kansas City, prompting a police response that led to the discovery of Cain on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Wednesday, Dawkins allegedly ran over Cain with his Ford F-150 before shooting her multiple times as she lay injured. Video surveillance and eyewitness accounts confirmed his actions, detailing how Dawkins walked away, reloaded his weapon, and then returned to fire additional rounds at close range. Court documents reveal that at the time of her death, Cain was pregnant with Dawkins’ child, and the two had recently ended their relationship.
Dawkins was arrested late Wednesday night, around 11:50 p.m., and is currently being held without bond at the Greene County Jail. Records show that he confessed to the murder during phone calls with family members, during which he also voiced suicidal thoughts. His cell phone records indicated that he was in the vicinity of the crime scene shortly before the homicide.
In 2025, Kansas City officials have reported a troubling increase in domestic violence-related homicides, with 12 cases recorded in just the first few weeks of the year, surpassing the total number from 2024.
In light of this tragic incident, a GoFundMe page has been established to provide support for Cain’s five children, all boys aged 2 to 19 years, garnering over $12,000 in donations. Contributions can be made directly on the platform or through the Kansas City Charter School Academy for Integrated Arts (AFIA), where Cain worked as a beloved teacher.
The school community is mourning the loss of Cain, who was known for her dedication to her children and her students. The Executive Director of AFIA noted Cain’s ability to inspire and support those around her. Community leaders are advocating for improved responses to domestic violence and better resources for victims, highlighting the need for systemic change to address these growing concerns.
Context and Implications
Domestic violence remains a significant issue in many communities, and recent statistics reveal that the incidence of related homicides is on the rise. The tragic case of Braisen Cain reinforces the urgent need for more effective interventions and support systems for victims of domestic violence. It also highlights the profound impact such tragedies have on families, friends, and entire communities.
Summary of Key Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Arel Dawkins |
| Charges | First-degree murder, armed criminal action |
| Victim Name | Braisen Cain |
| Incident Date | Wednesday, February 5, 2025 |
| Victim’s Occupation | Teacher at AFIA |
| Children | Five sons, ages 2 to 19 |
| GoFundMe Total Raised | $12,000+ |
| Dawkins’ Arrest | February 5, 2025 |
FAQ
What are the charges against Arel Dawkins?
Arel Dawkins has been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action.
Who was the victim?
The victim is Braisen Cain, a 42-year-old teacher who was pregnant at the time of her death.
How many children did Braisen Cain have?
Braisen Cain had five children, all sons, aged between 2 and 19 years old.
What actions are being taken regarding domestic violence in Kansas City?
Community leaders emphasize the necessity for improved responses to domestic violence and greater resources for victims.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- KCTV5: Kansas City Marks 100th Homicide
- Kansas City Star: Local Crime News
- Fox 4: Teacher Involved in Fatal Incident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Domestic Violence
- Encyclopedia.com: Domestic Violence Overview
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.
