Deputies Respond to Teen Homicide

*** UPDATE ***

The victim in this case is 17-year-old Therrell K. “TJ” Jackson of Kansas City, Mo.

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The Clay County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a shots fired call in Avondale on Tuesday, July 30. The call turned an investigation in the death of a teenager in an apparent drive-by shooting.

The Sheriff’s Office reports that multiple 911 calls started coming in at 9 pm about the sound of shots fired in the area.

“Shortly thereafter, a caller reported someone had been shot in the 3200 block of N.E. Excelsior Street in Avondale, Clay County Public Relations Manager Sarah Boyd told KPGZ News. “The victim, a male juvenile in his teens, was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.”

Clay County investigators are interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence and the Kansas City Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit is helping process the scene. Initially, it appears a drive-by shooting took place.

Investigators have identified a suspect vehicle, a dark blue or black 1996-98 Chevy Silverado 4x4 Z71 with one of its headlights out.

This is an ongoing investigation, and more details will be shared as they become available. If anyone recognizes the suspect vehicle or has any information that can help solve this case, please contact the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477).

Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Man Dead; Wife Charged with Murder

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office has announced on Tuesday, June 18, they are investigating the death of a Kearney man as a homicide. The incident happened at a residence northeast of town.

Melissa I. Hoffner-Allen - Clay County Sheriff’s Office Photo

A caller to 911 reported that a man had been shot in a home at 10 pm on Tuesday. The victim, later identified as 50-year-old Ricky Allen, was shot in a home at the 16200 block of Kountry Ridge Drive and died at the scene.

Clay County Deputies were able to take into custody his wife Melissa I. Hoffner-Allen.

Hoffner-Allen has been charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action, and she is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a bond of $250,000.

No further statements have been released about this case. More details on will be published when they become available.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.