News Summary
In Kansas City, two men have been charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action following the November shooting that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Joseph Hill. The suspects, SirMichael Harbin and Montell Essex-Benjamin, were arrested near the scene of the crime, where surveillance footage linked a stolen vehicle to the incident. The tragic event has raised concerns about escalating violent crime in the city and prompted community leaders to call for safety measures.
Kansas City – Two men have been charged in connection with the shooting that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Joseph Hill on November 13, 2023. The charges, filed by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, include second-degree murder and armed criminal action against SirMichael Harbin, 19, and Montell Essex-Benjamin, 21.
The tragic incident occurred around 4 p.m. near East 56th Street and Jackson Avenue. When Kansas City police arrived at the scene, they discovered Hill lying in the front yard of a nearby home. He was immediately transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
As the investigation commenced, officers reviewed surveillance footage that revealed a Dodge Charger firing shots towards Hill and the residence. This vehicle, later confirmed to be stolen, sped away from the scene following the shooting. On the same day, police found the stolen Charger parked in a nearby lot, with Harbin and Essex-Benjamin located in proximity. Both men fled as officers approached, but police pursued and arrested them shortly thereafter.
Further investigation confirmed Essex-Benjamin’s identity among those apprehended. Detectives utilized cell phone data which linked him to the crime scene during the time of the shooting. Gunshot residue was also discovered on Essex-Benjamin’s hands, providing additional evidence of his involvement. Meanwhile, DNA belonging to Harbin was found inside the stolen Charger as well as on a 9mm casing located at the scene.
Both suspects are currently being held at the Jackson County Jail, and no bond has been set for Essex-Benjamin, who was scheduled for his first court appearance shortly after the announcement of the charges. At the time of this report, details regarding Harbin’s court records were not available.
The shooting incident marks a disturbing trend in Kansas City, where violent crime has surged in recent years. Community leaders are expressing growing concern over the safety of residents, particularly youth, as violent incidents continue to unfold. The tragic loss of Joseph Hill has prompted demands for change and enhanced safety measures in the area.
The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting or related events to come forward. The community is rallying together to support Hill’s family during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a young man with a promising future.
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Additional Resources
- Fox4KC: Two Charged in Drive-By Shooting
- Wikipedia: Kansas City
- KMBC: Kansas City Apartment Shooting
- Google Search: Kansas City shooting
- KSHB: 2 Shot at South KC Apartment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kansas City, Missouri
- KCTV5: Shooting in South KC Apartment Complex
- Google News: Kansas City violent crime
