KANSAS CITY, KANSAS — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a heartbreaking officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Deputy Elijah Ming, a 34-year-old veteran of the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office. The incident unfolded on Saturday, July 26, 2025, during a response to a domestic disturbance call in Kansas City, Kansas.
The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. at a residence located in the 2600 block of South 30th Street, near Shawnee Drive, in the city’s Turner neighborhood. A woman had contacted authorities, requesting a police escort to ensure her safety while moving out of the home. She reported that a man inside the residence, identified as 38-year-old Shawn Harris of Kansas City, Kansas, had previously threatened her friends with a firearm when they attempted to assist her.
Around 3:45 p.m., Deputy Elijah Ming, a nearly nine-year veteran of the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office, arrived at the scene alongside a Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) officer. As the two approached the front door of the residence, Harris allegedly opened fire from inside, striking Deputy Ming. The KCKPD officer was unharmed during the initial exchange.
Additional law enforcement units quickly arrived to assist and provide aid to the wounded deputy. During this time, Harris, who had barricaded himself inside the home, continued to exchange gunfire with responding officers. Harris was also shot during the confrontation, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
Deputy Ming was rushed to a local hospital, where despite lifesaving efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. His death has left a profound impact on his colleagues, family, and the Wyandotte County community.
Following an hour-and-a-half standoff, police negotiators successfully convinced Harris to exit the residence just after 5:00 p.m. He surrendered without further incident and was taken into custody. Harris was transported to an area hospital for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is leading a thorough inquiry into the shooting, examining all aspects of the incident, including witness statements, physical evidence, and official reports. The KBI has emphasized that the information released thus far is preliminary, and a comprehensive report will be submitted to the Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office upon completion for review and potential prosecution.
Wyandotte County Sheriff Daniel Soptic described Deputy Ming as a beloved member of the department, stating, “Deputy Ming gave his life serving Wyandotte County and all of its residents.” Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor Tyrone Garner called the shooting a “senseless act of violence” and expressed the community’s deep sorrow, noting that he met with Ming’s family at the hospital. “There are no words or comfort that can ever ease the pain of losing someone you love to senseless violence,” Garner said.
The community has already begun to rally in support of Deputy Ming’s family and the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office. Neighbors in the typically quiet Turner neighborhood described the scene as chaotic, with one resident, Nathan Montgomery, recalling hearing gunfire as a U-Haul van was reversing near the residence. “Why shoot the cop? What was going through his head?” another neighbor, identified only as Swayze, remarked, reflecting the community’s shock and grief.
Deputy Elijah Ming’s dedication and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on Wyandotte County. Plans for public memorial services to honor his life and service are expected to be announced in the coming days as the community comes together to mourn and celebrate his legacy.