Kansas City Police Investigate Fatal Shooting and Crash Near Independence Plaza

KANSAS CITY, MO — Early Saturday morning, shortly after 4 a.m. on September 7, the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) responded to a reported crash with no injuries at Independence Plaza near the intersection of 12th and Benton. However, upon arrival, officers discovered more than just a collision.

KCPD found an unoccupied vehicle west of the 12th Street intersection, showing signs of damage and debris, including potential gunshots. Officers conducted a thorough search of the area and, during their investigation, found an unresponsive adult male suffering from a gunshot wound near an apartment building located diagonally south and east of the intersection. The individual was pronounced dead on the scene by Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The victim has been identified as 20-year-old Michael B. Waylee. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle involved in the incident had been traveling rapidly westbound on 12th Street around 1 a.m. Upon reaching the intersection with Benton Boulevard, the car sideswiped another vehicle, causing the driver to lose control and crash into a parked car west of Benton. Following the crash, the driver fled the scene, leaving behind the damaged vehicle.

Simultaneously, around the same hour, KCPD responded to a shooting at 12th and Hardesty, where another adult male was found with gunshot wounds. This individual was transported to a local hospital with injuries that have been classified as non-life-threatening. Detectives are now investigating a possible connection between the fatal shooting of Waylee and the non-fatal shooting at 12th and Hardesty.

As the investigation continues, KCPD is urging anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward. Homicide detectives can be contacted directly at 816-234-5043, and tips can also be submitted anonymously to the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that helps solve the case.

This tragic incident has sparked concern in the community, and the Kansas City Police Department is working diligently to piece together the events that led to the fatal shooting and crash. With active investigations underway, authorities are focused on uncovering any links between the incidents and bringing those responsible to justice.

KCPD remains committed to keeping the public informed as more details emerge. For now, the department is calling on community members to assist in the investigation by sharing any relevant information that could help resolve this case.