In a tragic incident on March 31, 2025, in south Kansas City, Missouri, 29-year-old Aminah C. Johnson and her fiancé, 32-year-old Derrick D.
Rhodes, were fatally shot outside a residence in the 9800 block of Marsh Avenue. The couple was expecting a child, adding to the profound grief experienced by their family and community.
Incident Overview
At approximately 1:50 p.m., Kansas City police responded to reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Johnson and Rhodes with critical gunshot wounds. Both victims were transported to a local hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.
Victims’ Background
Aminah Johnson was a devoted mother of two children, aged 4 and 7, and was pregnant with her third child. Her fiancé, Derrick Rhodes, was eagerly anticipating the birth of their new baby.
The couple’s untimely deaths have left their family grappling with an unimaginable loss.
Circumstances Leading to the Shooting
According to family members, the shooting resulted from a dispute with individuals whom Johnson and Rhodes had considered friends.
Desiree Johnson, Aminah’s mother, revealed that the couple had recently experienced a falling out with these friends, one of whom had allegedly vandalized Aminah’s home. This conflict escalated, culminating in the fatal shooting.
Investigation and Arrests
Kansas City police detained a man at the scene as a person of interest in connection with the shooting. However, he was later released due to insufficient evidence.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
Family’s Plea for Justice
Desiree Johnson has expressed profound frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation.
In an effort to encourage witnesses to provide information, she has offered a personal reward of $5,000 for details leading to an arrest and conviction.
This sum is in addition to the $25,000 reward offered by the local tips hotline. Individuals with pertinent information are encouraged to contact 816-474-TIPS.
Impact on the Family
The devastating loss has left Desiree Johnson to care for her two young grandchildren. She faces the heartbreaking challenge of explaining the absence of their mother and the unborn sibling they were eagerly awaiting.
The family’s grief is compounded by the knowledge that the alleged perpetrator was someone the couple trusted.
Community Response
The local community has been deeply affected by the tragedy. Neighbors and friends have expressed their condolences and are rallying to support the bereaved family.
Community leaders are also emphasizing the importance of conflict resolution and the need to address violence among acquaintances.
Key Details of the Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | March 31, 2025 |
| Time of Incident | Approximately 1:50 p.m. |
| Location | 9800 block of Marsh Avenue, Kansas City, MO |
| Victims | Aminah C. Johnson (29), Derrick D. Rhodes (32) |
| Unborn Child | Deceased |
| Children Left Behind | Two (ages 4 and 7) |
| Person of Interest | Detained and released due to lack of evidence |
| Family’s Reward for Information | $5,000 |
| Tips Hotline Reward | $25,000 |
| Contact for Tips | 816-474-TIPS |
The tragic deaths of Aminah Johnson, Derrick Rhodes, and their unborn child have left a profound void in their family and community.
As authorities continue their investigation, the family’s plea for justice remains urgent. Community support and cooperation are vital in bringing closure to this heartbreaking case.