With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we pause to remember and honor the life of Aundre Harris Jr., an 18-year-old young man whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence in Kansas City, Missouri. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.
On Wednesday night, around 9:30 p.m., Kansas City Police were dispatched to Bally’s Casino on East Front Street following reports of a shooting. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Aundre suffering from gunshot wounds in the casino parking lot. Emergency medical services responded swiftly and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Police stated that a disturbance involving multiple individuals began inside the casino and escalated into a confrontation in the parking lot. During that altercation, shots were fired, and Aundre was struck. A person of interest was taken into custody at the scene, and the investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine exactly what led to this heartbreaking loss.
Beyond the tragic circumstances of that night, Aundre Harris Jr. was more than a headline. He was a son, a loved one, a friend, and a young man standing at the threshold of adulthood, with dreams, hopes, and a future full of possibilities. His life mattered. His presence mattered. And his loss is felt deeply by those who knew him best.
This devastating incident serves as another painful reminder of the toll gun violence continues to take on young lives and families across our communities. No parent should have to bury a child. No family should have to carry this kind of grief. As Kansas City mourns, we stand in solidarity with Aundre’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they navigate this unimaginable loss. May they find comfort in cherished memories, strength in one another, and peace in knowing that Aundre will never be forgotten.
Anyone who was in the area at the time of the shooting or who may have witnessed or heard anything is urged to contact KCPD Homicide detectives at 816-234-5043 or provide information anonymously through the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.
Rest in eternal peace, Aundre Harris Jr.
Gone too soon, but forever remembered.