Marina
A 16-year-old boy died hours after being shot near a Kansas City waterpark, shocking the community and raising urgent questions about safety, violence, and accountability.
This article dives into every confirmed fact, including the victim’s identity, timeline, motive, investigative response, and implications for Kansas City residents.
What Happened & Timeline of Events
According to police reports and local media:
- Around 5:25–5:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, law enforcement was dispatched to the 7100 block of Longview Road, near The Bay Water Park in South Kansas City after receiving calls of a shooting.
- Officers discovered a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds in critical condition.
- He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
- At approximately 9:30 p.m., the victim succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased.
- The deceased has been publicly identified as Ta’Kori Jones, aged 16, who was days away from turning 17.
- Homicide detectives have now assumed control of the investigation and are seeking evidence, witnesses, or surveillance footage.
Here is a summary in table form:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of incident | Saturday, October 4, 2025 |
| Time of shooting | ~5:25–5:30 p.m. |
| Location | Near The Bay Water Park, 7100 block of Longview Road, Kansas City, MO |
| Victim name / age | Ta’Kori Jones, 16 (soon to be 17) |
| Time of death | ~9:30 p.m. same evening |
| Status of park | The park was closed for the season at that time |
| Investigating agency | Kansas City Police Department — homicide division |
| Known circumstances | An “interaction” between multiple people just before shots were fired |
| Witness / tip lines | (816) 234-5043 (homicide) / 816-474-8477 (anonymous TIPS hotline) |
Key Details & Surrounding Context
Location & Park Status
Though the shooting happened in the vicinity of a waterpark, the park was not operational at the time. Reports confirm the park was seasonally closed, with gates shut. Neighbors said that despite closure, youths sometimes congregate near the site, including around basketball hoops or playground structures.
Preceding Interaction & Motive
Preliminary investigations suggest there was an “interaction” or confrontation involving multiple individuals just prior to the gunfire. The precise nature — whether argument, fight, or provocation — has not yet been made public. Detectives are investigating motive, possible suspects, and any video or eyewitness accounts.
Community & Past Incidents
This is not the first time a fatal shooting has occurred near the Bay Water Park. In 2015, a 14-year-old girl was murdered outside the same park, leading to criminal convictions of multiple individuals. Also, in recent weeks, two people were fatally shot outside a nearby grocery store — though police say those events are not confirmed to be related to this latest homicide.
Neighborhood residents say they heard three or more gunshots on the evening of the incident.
Local activist groups and community leaders have expressed grief and frustration at recurring violence, demanding accountability and action to protect vulnerable youth.
Investigation Status & Next Steps
- Homicide detectives are reviewing surveillance video, including from nearby gas stations or businesses.
- Police are urging witnesses or those with video evidence to come forward, including via the anonymous TIPS Hotline (816-474-8477) or homicide division line (816-234-5043).
- A reward of up to $25,000 may be offered for credible anonymous tips.
- Investigators aim to identify suspects, motive, and chronology, and determine whether this was an isolated confrontation or part of a larger pattern of violence.
Implications & Community Reaction
- The loss of such a young life has heightened calls for intervention in local gun violence, especially in neighborhoods near parks and community landmarks.
- The fact that the scene is near a public recreation site underscores concerns about youth safety and whether abandoned or off-hours public spaces become hotspots for conflict.
- The recurrence of violent incidents near this location has raised questions about long-term safety planning, surveillance, and community engagement to prevent repeat tragedies.
- Local organizations and families affected by gun violence are pressing for stronger cooperation with law enforcement, improved community reporting systems, and preventive measures.
The killing of 16-year-old Ta’Kori Jones near a Kansas City waterpark casts a harsh light on persistent issues of youth safety and gun violence in communities.
While the investigation remains ongoing, major facts are clear: the shooting occurred after 5:30 p.m., the victim died that evening, and law enforcement is actively seeking leads.
The recurrence of violence near that location adds urgency to preventative strategies and community vigilance. As investigators work to bring answers, the community must also step up — providing information, supporting at-risk youth, and demanding safer environments.