Kansas City Community Grieves After Tragic Shooting Claims Lives of Matthew Suri and Maximiliano Ruiz
KANSAS CITY, MO — The Kansas City community is reeling after a devastating shooting at the intersection of 12th and Belmont on Saturday, which claimed the lives of two young men, Matthew Suri and Maximiliano Ruiz. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across the city, leaving families, friends, and neighbors mourning the senseless loss of two lives taken far too soon.
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire late Saturday evening and arrived to find Matthew and Maximiliano with critical injuries. Despite the best efforts of first responders and medical personnel, both young men were pronounced dead at the scene. Police have launched a full investigation into the shooting, though as of Sunday evening, no suspects had been publicly identified. Officials urge anyone with information to come forward as they work tirelessly to bring justice and closure to the grieving families.
Matthew Suri, 22, was described by those who knew him as a bright, energetic soul with an infectious smile and a deep love for his community. A Kansas City native, Matthew had recently started a small business with dreams of giving back to the neighborhood that shaped him. Friends recall his kindness, his loyalty, and his deep belief in lifting up those around him.
Maximiliano Ruiz, 23, known affectionately as “Max” to his close friends and family, was equally beloved. An avid soccer player and aspiring chef, Maximiliano was passionate about sharing his culture and creativity with others. His family shared that he had plans to open a food truck in the coming year, bringing authentic Latin flavors to the Kansas City streets he loved so much.
Both young men were known for their positive spirit, their deep friendships, and their dreams of a bright future — dreams now tragically cut short.
“This is an unimaginable loss,” said Pastor Jerome Wells of a nearby church, who has been offering support to the grieving families. “Matthew and Maximiliano were sons of this community. They were full of life, full of hope. Their absence leaves a hole that cannot be filled.”
A growing memorial now stands at 12th and Belmont, where friends, family members, and even strangers have been gathering to leave flowers, candles, photos, and heartfelt notes. Vigils are planned throughout the week, as the community comes together to remember Matthew and Maximiliano and to call for an end to the violence that has stolen too many young lives.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also issued a statement Sunday, expressing his deep condolences. “Our hearts break for the families of Matthew Suri and Maximiliano Ruiz. We must honor their memories not only with prayers, but with action — by working together to build a safer, stronger city for all.”
The tragedy has reignited conversations about gun violence and community safety in Kansas City. Activists, clergy members, and local leaders have vowed to redouble efforts to address the root causes of violence and to create spaces for healing and prevention.
Grief counselors have been made available at local community centers and churches, and several neighborhood organizations are coordinating support for the families, including fundraising efforts to assist with funeral expenses.
As friends and family prepare to say their goodbyes in the coming days, many are choosing to focus not only on the tragedy of Matthew and Maximiliano’s deaths but also on the beauty of their lives — lives filled with laughter, dreams, and love.
Their memories will live on in the stories shared, in the lives they touched, and in the ongoing fight to make Kansas City a safer, more hopeful place for future generations.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the Kansas City Police Department’s Homicide Unit or call the anonymous TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-TIPS.