Lawrence, Kansas, January 27, 2026
Details surrounding the recent shooting outside The Hawk bar in Lawrence have emerged through court documents. The incident resulted in one death and left another critically injured. Community safety efforts and law enforcement’s swift response are highlighted as vital elements in the ongoing investigation. The consequences of this act of violence resonate deeply within the community, emphasizing the need for vigilance in public safety and justice accountability.
Unpacking the Tragic Lawrence Bar Shooting: Investigation Details Emerge
Court Documents Shed Light on Critical Night at The Hawk, Highlighting Community Safety Efforts.
Kansas City, MO – The recent release of court documents has brought to light crucial details surrounding the deadly shooting that occurred outside a popular Lawrence bar, The Hawk, on January 17. This incident, resulting in one fatality and another critical injury, serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the dedicated efforts of local law enforcement. In a time where public safety is paramount, understanding the facts of such events is vital for fostering responsible civic engagement and supporting the justice system as it works to ensure accountability.
The swift response and thorough investigation by Lawrence police underscore the commitment of our civic institutions to maintain order and security. While tragic, the methodical process of uncovering the truth through legal channels demonstrates how a well-functioning system, focused on objective facts and due process, is essential for community well-being. This ongoing investigation highlights the personal initiative of officers and legal professionals in bringing clarity to complex situations, reinforcing the foundational role they play in upholding justice within our communities.
The Night Unfolds at The Hawk
On January 17, around 2 a.m., Lawrence police officers were dispatched to The Hawk, located at 1340 Ohio St., following reports of a “shooting in progress.” Dispatcher notes indicated that a person, described as wearing orange, was allegedly “pointing a gun at people,” with approximately five shots reportedly fired.
Victims and Initial Response
Upon arrival, officers discovered 18-year-old Aidan Knowles deceased and 16-year-old Brady Clark critically injured, both lying in front of a doorway to The Hawk. The immediate presence of law enforcement at the scene was critical in securing the area and beginning the evidence-gathering process.
Apprehension of Suspects and Charges
A focused search by officers led to the detention of two 18-year-olds, Caiden Clem of Atchison, Kansas, and Dai’tron L. Daniels-Strickland of Shawnee, along with two other individuals, just a few blocks away in an alley. Clem was noted to be dressed in all orange, consistent with initial reports. Police utilized canine units and a drone to track the suspects who had fled the scene, leading to their capture without further incident.
Daniels-Strickland faces charges including second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. Clem has been charged with felony first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault. Three witnesses who approached officers at the crime scene provided statements, indicating they had witnessed the shooting and knew both victims.
Prior Legal Encounters of the Accused
Court records reveal previous legal histories for both accused individuals. Daniels-Strickland was previously charged in Johnson County juvenile court in February 2024 for allegedly bringing a loaded gun to Olathe Northwest High School. He was sentenced to 18 months in a juvenile correctional facility after pleading guilty to felony criminal threat and several misdemeanors, being released in August 2024.
Clem’s record shows a no-contest plea in September 2023 in juvenile court to a felony charge of burglary of a dwelling with intent to steal a firearm. After initially being placed on probation, he was sent to prison in April 2024 due to a probation violation. Records from the Kansas Department of Corrections also indicate a conviction in Atchison County for burglary in 2023, which involved firearm theft, and a conviction for tampering with electronic monitoring equipment, placing him on post-release supervision at the time of the Lawrence shooting.
Perspectives on the Incident
Families of the victims have expressed their profound devastation, describing Aidan Knowles and Brady Clark as “simply in the wrong place at the wrong time” and innocent bystanders caught in a “senseless act of violence.” In a follow-up statement, the Clark family extended gratitude for public support and solidarity with the Knowles family, while noting Brady’s ongoing recovery from significant trauma. They expressed a desire for justice and continued community healing.
A legal representative for Daniels-Strickland has submitted a motion claiming that their client was justified in drawing and firing his own weapon upon hearing gunshots nearby, suggesting an act of self-defense. This defense perspective will be considered as part of the judicial process, highlighting the importance of presenting all facts within the legal framework.
Fostering Community Resilience and Accountability
The Lawrence bar shooting underscores the ongoing need for communities to uphold strong standards for public safety and support the institutions responsible for enforcing them. The diligence shown by Lawrence police and the legal system in processing this complex case reflects a commitment to justice that benefits all citizens. Such events highlight the value of clear laws and responsible individual conduct in maintaining a secure environment. Engaging with local initiatives focused on safety and supporting the dedicated professionals who serve our neighborhoods are crucial steps in building a more resilient and secure Kansas City MO.
As the legal proceedings continue, staying informed and supporting local efforts to enhance community well-being remain important civic actions. Every citizen has a role in contributing to a safer community, whether through responsible observation, supporting law enforcement, or engaging in local discussions about public safety.
Keywords: Lawrence bar shooting, Kansas City MO events, community safety, local law enforcement, investigation details.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lawrence Bar Shooting
- What happened on the night of the Lawrence bar shooting?
- On January 17, around 2 a.m., Lawrence police responded to a shooting at The Hawk, 1340 Ohio St., where one person was killed and another critically injured.
- Who were the victims of the shooting?
- The deceased victim was 18-year-old Aidan Knowles, and the critically injured victim was 16-year-old Brady Clark.
- Who has been charged in connection with the shooting?
- Dai’tron L. Daniels-Strickland of Shawnee and Caiden Clem of Atchison, Kansas, both 18, have been charged.
- What charges do the suspects face?
- Daniels-Strickland faces charges of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. Clem faces felony first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault.
- Were there witnesses to the shooting?
- Yes, three witnesses approached officers at the crime scene and stated they witnessed the shooting and knew the victims.
- What is known about the suspects’ past legal issues?
- Daniels-Strickland had a prior charge in February 2024 for allegedly bringing a loaded gun to Olathe Northwest High School. Clem had a felony burglary conviction in 2023, which involved firearm theft, and was on post-release supervision at the time of the shooting.
Key Features of the Lawrence Bar Shooting Investigation
| Feature | Details | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Date and Time of Incident | January 17, around 2 a.m. | State-level (Lawrence, Kansas) |
| Location | The Hawk (Jayhawk Cafe), 1340 Ohio St., Lawrence | State-level (Lawrence, Kansas) |
| Deceased Victim | Aidan Knowles, 18 | State-level (Kansas) |
| Critically Injured Victim | Brady Clark, 16 | State-level (Kansas) |
| Accused Individuals | Dai’tron L. Daniels-Strickland (Shawnee), Caiden Clem (Atchison, Kansas) | State-level (Kansas) |
| Charges for Daniels-Strickland | Second-degree murder, two counts of attempted second-degree murder | State-level (Kansas) |
| Charges for Clem | Felony first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated assault | State-level (Kansas) |
| Law Enforcement Involved | Lawrence police officers, Douglas County District Attorney | State-level (Kansas) |
| Key Investigative Tool Mentioned | Court documents detailing events leading to shooting | State-level (Kansas) |
| Prior Record (Daniels-Strickland) | Loaded gun at Olathe Northwest High School (Feb 2024), felony criminal threat, misdemeanors, juvenile correctional facility sentence | State-level (Johnson County, Kansas) |
| Prior Record (Clem) | Felony burglary (2023, involving firearm theft), probation violation, post-release supervision | State-level (Atchison County, Kansas) |
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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.
