Suspect Identified in Officer-Involved Shooting; Public Urged to Assist Authorities
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Authorities have identified Thomas Eugene Tolbert as the suspect in a violent shooting that left a Kansas City police officer seriously wounded late Sunday night. The incident, which unfolded during a response to a domestic disturbance, has sparked an urgent manhunt as officials plead for the public’s help in locating Tolbert.
The shooting occurred on Sunday, June 1, 2025, around 11:00 p.m., in the 3500 block of SW Hollywood Drive, where officers were dispatched to an apartment complex following a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, officers attempted to make contact at the unit in question when, according to initial reports, they were met with gunfire.
Officer Injured in the Line of Duty
One officer was struck by gunfire and critically injured during the confrontation. Fellow officers on the scene provided immediate aid before the wounded officer was rushed to a local hospital. Officials say the officer underwent emergency surgery and remains in serious but stable condition. The officer’s identity has not been released pending family notifications.
“This is a stark reminder of the risks our officers face every day,” said Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves in a press briefing. “We are grateful for the swift actions of our officers and medical teams. Our focus now is on locating and apprehending the suspect.”
Suspect Identified as Thomas Eugene Tolbert
Investigators quickly identified 45-year-old Thomas Eugene Tolbert as the primary suspect in the shooting. Tolbert allegedly fled the scene on foot before additional officers could secure the area. As of Monday morning, he remains at large.
Tolbert is considered armed and extremely dangerous, and law enforcement is urging members of the public not to approach him under any circumstances.
Authorities have not yet disclosed what led to the domestic call or what provoked the shooting, citing the ongoing investigation. However, sources close to the case say Tolbert may have had a history of prior interactions with law enforcement.
Public Asked to Help
The Kansas City Police Department is asking anyone who may have seen Tolbert or has any information regarding his whereabouts to contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. Anonymous tips are accepted, and a reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
“We need the community’s help,” said Chief Graves. “If you know where this man is, please do the right thing. Help us bring him in safely and prevent further harm.”
Community on Edge
The shooting has sent shockwaves throughout the Kansas City community, where incidents involving violence against law enforcement officers are relatively rare. Neighbors near the apartment complex where the shooting occurred say they were awakened by gunfire and saw a heavy police presence flood the area shortly thereafter.
“I’m still shaken up,” said one resident who asked not to be named. “There were flashing lights everywhere and officers shouting. We didn’t know what was going on.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has taken over the investigation, which is standard protocol for officer-involved shootings. Authorities are reviewing body camera footage and speaking with witnesses as they piece together the events leading up to the gunfire.
As the manhunt intensifies, city officials and law enforcement continue to ask for calm and cooperation from the public.
“This individual is a danger to our community and must be taken off the streets,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas in a statement. “Let’s work together to ensure justice is served and that our wounded officer receives the support and care they need to recover.”