A Kansas City man has been charged in connection with a fatal shooting that took place at a West Side gas station in Kansas on July 4, 2024, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson
Orlando Smith, 22, is charged with 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
According to court records, Kansas City police responded to a gas station on and observed a female victim in her vehicle with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
Detectives reviewed surveillance video in the area showing a man, who detectives later identified as Smith armed with a pistol and walking toward a light pole near the gas station. An unknown man is also seen near the light pole. As the victim’s vehicle is pulling into the gas station parking lot, a muzzle flash is seen coming from where the defendant is standing.
Witnesses reported Smith got into an argument with a homeless man, fired a shot in the air, and then attacked the man. One witness stated the defendant could not control his firearm as it continued firing until he removed his finger from the trigger.
Detectives interviewed Smith and he admitted to shooting a Glock 22 with an extended magazine after getting into an argument with an unknown man. He said he thought he shot twice into the ground and was not aware anyone was killed.
The defendant is being held without bond.