Police have identified the two men killed in a downtown Kansas City shooting that erupted after an argument on August 24 as Kane Taddese, 24, and John Alfaro, 18. The violence broke out in a surface parking lot near 13th and Grand Boulevard, leaving two dead and three others wounded.
Officers were first dispatched around 4 a.m. to reports of gunfire near 11th and Grand. When they arrived, witnesses directed them two blocks south to a parking lot at 13th and Grand, where multiple people had been shot.
One victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Four others were taken to local hospitals, where Alfaro later died from his injuries. Among the surviving victims were a teenage boy who was initially in critical condition, a man with serious injuries, and a woman with non-life-threatening wounds.
Witnesses told investigators that about 15 people had been hanging out in the lot when a fight broke out. What began as a large fistfight reportedly dragged on for nearly half an hour before gunfire erupted.
A 15-year-old witness, Miles Clancy, said his 16-year-old friend was struck multiple times in the crossfire. Other witnesses suggested the dispute may have started over a girl, though police have not confirmed that account.
The gunfire left behind a trail of destruction: dozens of bullet holes pocked nearby buildings, including the College Basketball Experience facility, and vehicles in the lot were left with shattered windows and flat tires. Police say the shooters were masked and remain unidentified.
Alfaro, 18, had recently graduated from high school and dreamed of launching his own construction company. He was close to completing a program at Lowriding to Success, where he had been customizing a bike. His sister, Evelyn Sanchez, described him as “caring, thoughtful and respectful,” saying she wanted him to “always be remembered as caring.” Friends and family gathered on Wednesday for a vigil in his honor.
Taddese, 24, was also killed in the shooting. Authorities have released a few details about his background as the investigation continues.
As of now, police have made no arrests in connection with the shooting. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, canvassing the area, and appealing for witnesses to come forward. A $25,000 reward is being offered through Crime Stoppers for information leading to an arrest.
The tragedy comes as city leaders weigh new regulations on surface parking in entertainment districts. Just days before the shooting, Mayor Quinton Lucas introduced an ordinance that would require privately-owned lots to meet stricter safety standards.
The proposal would mandate $1 million in insurance coverage, improved lighting, surveillance cameras, perimeter fencing, and ongoing maintenance for lots in areas including the Central Business District, Westport, Country Club Plaza, 18th & Vine, and Crossroads.
Copaken Brooks LLC, which owns the lot where the shooting occurred, said in a statement that it is “deeply concerned” by the violence and is working with officials on safety improvements. The company noted it has already enhanced lighting, expanded surveillance, and increased security patrols.
The Kansas City Council Finance Committee will hear the parking lot ordinance on September 9, 2025. If approved, property owners would have nine months to comply.
Meanwhile, investigators continue to gather evidence in the August 24 shooting. No arrests have been made.
Information is urged to contact the Kansas City police or the TIPS Hotline.
