Kansas City Police Identify Woman Killed in Overnight Shooting; Investigation Continues with No Suspects in Custody
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A violent and tragic series of events unfolded early Saturday morning on the city’s east side, resulting in multiple people shot and one woman killed. The Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) has now identified the deceased as 34-year-old Monique K. Smith, a local resident whose life was cut short amid a chaotic outbreak of gunfire that is now under active homicide investigation.
According to police, officers were dispatched at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 14 to the area of East 35th Street and Prospect Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, witnesses directed them to a nearby gas station parking lot, where authorities discovered a harrowing scene: four victims—three men and one woman—suffering from gunshot wounds.
Emergency responders rendered aid at the scene and quickly transported the victims to area hospitals. Monique Smith was in critical condition when she was rushed to the hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. One of the male victims also remains in critical condition, while the other two were said to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to a KCPD spokesperson.
A Second Scene, A Connected Crime
While officers and investigators were still processing the first crime scene, a second shooting was reported less than two miles away in the 2000 block of East Linwood Boulevard. Responding officers determined that this second scene was connected to the first incident. There, police found a fifth victim, another male, who was also taken to a hospital in critical condition.
Although details surrounding the motive or sequence of events remain unclear, detectives believe both shootings are linked, and possibly the result of an escalating confrontation that spanned multiple locations. Investigators are now working tirelessly to determine the circumstances and sequence of the violence.
No Suspects in Custody
As of Saturday evening, no arrests have been made, and police have not released any suspect information. Detectives are urging community members to come forward with any information that could help solve the case, identify the shooter(s), and bring justice to Monique Smith and the other victims.
“This was a senseless act of violence, and we are working diligently to determine who is responsible,” a KCPD homicide investigator said. “We need the public’s help—any information, no matter how small, could be the missing piece we need.”
Who Was Monique K. Smith?
Monique Smith, 34, has been remembered by those who knew her as a vibrant and caring individual. Family and friends are grappling with the sudden loss, sharing messages of love and heartbreak across social media. “She was the light in so many lives,” one friend wrote. “She didn’t deserve this.”
Though police have not confirmed whether Smith was the intended target of the shooting or caught in the crossfire, her death has reverberated through her community. Local leaders are calling for action and accountability as gun violence continues to plague Kansas City’s neighborhoods.
Ongoing Investigation & How to Help
The Kansas City Police Department is actively investigating the case and is seeking witnesses, video surveillance, or any tips that could aid the investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact KCPD homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS, where a reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest in this case.
Police are also reviewing security footage from nearby businesses and canvassing the area for additional witnesses. “We know someone saw something. We urge them to do the right thing and help us hold those responsible accountable,” police stated.
A City in Mourning, A Community Demanding Change
This latest tragedy adds to a growing list of gun-related deaths in Kansas City in 2025, as the city continues to grapple with escalating violence. Local organizations are calling for more investment in violence prevention programs, community engagement, and neighborhood support.
Community leaders have announced plans to hold a candlelight vigil for Monique Smith at the gas station parking lot where the shooting occurred. The date and time will be released in the coming days, as organizers coordinate with the family.
In loving memory of Monique K. Smith, 34 — a daughter, friend, and community member whose life was ended far too soon. May her memory inspire action, and may justice be served in her name.