May 27, 2023

Police: Armed, dangerous Kan. murder suspect still at large

Posted May 27, 2023 10:00 AM
Banks-photo Wichita Police
Banks-photo Wichita Police

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a  shooting that sent a 19-year-old from Wichita to the hospital where she died Wednesday afternoon, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Officers continue the search for a suspect identified as  19-year-old La’Niha Banks who is considered armed and dangerous.

Just after 11 p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 1000 block of E 1st Street N in Wichita.

First responders located a woman with two gunshot wounds to her upper body. The victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition and with life-threatening injuries.

The investigation revealed that the victim was trying to break up a physical altercation between an acquaintance of hers and Banks in a parking lot.

After the victim managed to stop the fight, she started to drive away, but  Banks produced a handgun and started to shoot into the occupied vehicle.

Police reported Tuesday they had recovered Banks' car -photo Wichita Police
Police reported Tuesday they had recovered Banks' car -photo Wichita Police

During the investigation, detectives were able to confirm Banks as the suspect. She was last seen fleeing in a red 2014 Buick Lacrosse with a paper 60-day tag. The police have located the car.

 Banks is wanted on requested charges of aggravated battery, five counts of Aggravated Assault, two counts of discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and one count of  murder.  If you see Banks or know where she is, call 911.