KANSAS CITY, Mo. — 16-Year-Old Matim Nunley Identified as Victim in Deadly Gas Station Shooting
A tragic wave of gun violence struck Kansas City again last weekend, claiming the life of a young teenager in a shooting that unfolded in broad daylight. Authorities have now identified the victim as Matim Nunley, a 16-year-old who died after being shot outside a gas station on the city’s east side.
The incident occurred just after 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, in the parking lot of a convenience store located on East 63rd Street near the Missouri 350 highway. Emergency calls reported gunfire in the area, prompting a swift response from Kansas City police officers.
Police Response and Initial Discovery
When officers arrived on the scene, they were directed to the parking lot where they discovered Nunley suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but the teen succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kansas City Police Department officials have not released details about potential suspects, motives, or whether Nunley was targeted or caught in crossfire. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Community Reeling from Another Youth Tragedy
The shooting of Matim Nunley has sent shockwaves through the Kansas City community, where residents and leaders are grappling with a disturbing rise in youth violence. Nunley, described by those who knew him as a quiet and kind-hearted teen, is now another name added to the growing list of young lives lost to gunfire.
Friends and classmates of Nunley took to social media over the weekend, expressing disbelief, grief, and frustration. Many shared photos and tributes, remembering him as a bright and respectful young man who had his whole future ahead of him.
“He was just a kid,” wrote one user. “Sixteen years old. He should’ve been thinking about summer break, not getting buried.”
A Broader Pattern of Violence
Kansas City has been struggling with gun violence for years, but 2024 has proven to be particularly violent for the city’s youth. The death of Matim Nunley marks yet another instance in a disturbing trend, prompting renewed calls for action from community activists, educators, and local officials.
“This can’t keep happening,” said Pastor Andre Brown, a local anti-violence advocate who works with at-risk teens. “We’re losing our babies in the streets, in the middle of the day, outside gas stations and corner stores. This city has to do more—every level of it.”
Kansas City Police have reported an uptick in shootings involving teens and young adults, and law enforcement officials have reiterated the need for community cooperation and increased support for violence prevention programs.
Investigation Ongoing
Detectives are actively pursuing leads in the case. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and officers are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or seen suspicious activity in the area to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 816-474-TIPS.
The police department has stressed the importance of community involvement, noting that even the smallest detail could help identify those responsible.
A Family in Mourning
While investigators piece together the events of that Saturday afternoon, Matim Nunley’s family is left to cope with an unimaginable loss. They have requested privacy as they grieve the death of their son, brother, and friend. A GoFundMe campaign has reportedly been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to support the family during this difficult time.
“He had dreams, he had goals, he had people who loved him,” said a family friend. “Now all of that is gone, just like that. Taken by a bullet in the middle of the afternoon.”
What’s Next
A candlelight vigil is expected to be held later this week in memory of Matim Nunley, organized by friends and local youth leaders who are demanding change and accountability. City officials are expected to attend, alongside representatives from community-based violence prevention organizations.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who has been vocal about gun violence in the city, issued a brief statement expressing condolences to the Nunley family and calling for unity in addressing the violence that continues to plague Kansas City neighborhoods.
“This is not just a policing issue. This is a community issue,” Mayor Lucas said. “We must work together to protect our children and stop this senseless loss of life.”
As the investigation moves forward, Kansas City mourns yet another young life cut short—and wrestles with the urgent question of what must be done to ensure that Matim Nunley is the last name added to this heartbreaking list.