Kansas City, Missouri Police are currently conducting an investigation into an armed robbery incident that resulted in a high-speed chase. According to authorities, the incident occurred late Friday night when officers were on patrol in the vicinity of 27th Street and Gillham Road, near Crown Center Mall.
On Friday night, when the police initially attempted to pull over a vehicle at the intersection of 27th Street and Gillham Road, the residents of Brookside were unaware that this incident would ultimately lead to certain streets in their neighborhood being placed on lockdown.
Deandra Butler was hanging out near the Uptown Theatre in Westport when the chase started and it passed right by her.
Butler vividly remembers the chaotic scene that unfolded on Main Street when a speeding truck caught the attention of law enforcement. “There was a truck going about 80 mph on Main Street,” he recounted. “And about 6-8 cop cars followed him. Then we saw the helicopter circling around.”
Javier Gallo, a resident of Brookside in Kansas City, witnessed a police presence in his neighborhood extending for miles, eventually culminating near 55th and Holmes Road.
“We witnessed around 30 officers on foot, in their cars, riding ATV’s, and accompanied by K-9 units,” Gallo recalled. “They were diligently inspecting people’s yards.”
Javier was concerned about the suspects potentially hiding anywhere in the dense layout of their block on Cherry Street.
“We made sure to take care of our children, securing our doors and activating the alarm,” Gallo explained. “We remained highly vigilant, constantly peering out the windows and surveying the backyard. It’s important to be aware, as it’s quite possible for someone to conceal themselves in this area.”
The Kansas City Police have not provided any information about arrests made or descriptions of suspects in connection with the incident. However, residents of Brookside, determined to take a stand against crime, are using this incident as an opportunity to come together and demonstrate that their streets will not be taken over by criminal activity.
Alison McAfee believes that a crucial aspect of community involvement is keeping an eye on your neighbors and ensuring that your community has all the necessary resources. According to her, this is why many community activities tend to take place during the summer season.
“We stay in touch with our neighbors through social media, phone calls, and text messages,” Gallo explained. “That’s how we kept tabs on everyone last night too.”
If you have been a victim of crime in the Brookside/Waldo Community, you have an opportunity to address your concerns at a panel discussion hosted by the Kansas City Police Department and Prosecutors Office. The event will take place on Wednesday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Research Medical Center Brookside Campus, which is situated at 6675 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO. This is a valuable platform for you to voice your concerns and contribute to the discussion.