On Friday night a shooting involving police officers that left two people deceased and one injured took place in Kansas City.
The deceased were identified as 42-year-old Kristen Fairchild of Gardner, Kansas, and 42-year-old Marcell T. Nelson of Kansas City, Missouri. The incident occurred near 31st Street and Van Brunt Boulevard.
Just before 9 p.m., a Kansas City officer initiated a request for back up, with officers responding immediately to a reported shooting in the vicinity. At least one officer and five other people were spotted surrounding a white van when officers arrived at the scene.
It is still unclear if all three people had been shot by officers representing the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD). Nelson was declared dead at the scene. One weapon not belonging to an officer was discovered at the site. Fairchild was then transported to a nearby medical facility where she soon passed away due to her injuries.
A third individual was found with gunshot wounds. Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Andy Bell declared that the injuries were not serious. Furthermore, two other individuals were taken into police custody.
With respect to the ongoing investigation, the MSHP is taking the lead. This is the KCPD’s policy with regard to all shooting incidents involving their officers. Officers must undergo interviews and all video surveillance must be reviewed to provide authorities with invaluable information concerning the course of events. As is standard in these situations the officer who fired his weapon is on administrative leave while the investigation unfolds.