Liberty, Missouri — Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of 17-Year-Old Charles Sanders
The Liberty and Kansas City communities are reeling from the tragic loss of Charles Sanders, a 17-year-old student whose life was cut short in a daylight shooting on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. The incident occurred in a Northland neighborhood, leaving family, friends, and neighbors in shock and mourning.
A Promising Life Ended Too Soon
Charles Sanders was discovered with gunshot wounds in the front yard of a residence near NE 75th Court and North Chas Drive. Emergency responders transported him to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and seeing individuals fleeing the scene. Some neighbors attempted to administer CPR before authorities arrived .
Charles had previously attended Liberty Academy until February 2024. While he was not enrolled in Liberty Public Schools at the time of his death, the district expressed condolences to his family and friends, acknowledging the profound impact of this loss on the community .
Ongoing Investigation
The Kansas City Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Preliminary information suggests that Charles had an encounter with one or more individuals, leading to the fatal shooting. Surveillance footage from the neighborhood captured a man in a white hoodie standing over Charles before fleeing the scene. As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit or call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS .
Community Response
The senseless loss of a young life has left the community searching for answers and grappling with grief. Neighbors described the area as close-knit, expressing disbelief that such violence could occur in their midst. The incident has prompted discussions about safety and the need for community support in preventing future tragedies.
As the investigation continues, community members are coming together to honor Charles’s memory and support his family during this difficult time. Counseling services are being made available to students and residents affected by the tragedy.
The loss of Charles Sanders serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.