Marina
In a tragic and disturbing turn of events, Marquis Ponder, a security guard with Center School District, has been charged with second-degree murder following a deadly shooting near Westport Road and Broadway Boulevard in Kansas City, Missouri.
The incident, which unfolded on Friday, May 24, 2025, has led to multiple charges including unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action, casting a spotlight on public safety and employee conduct within educational institutions.
Key Details of the Incident
Authorities revealed that the shooting occurred during an argument near a business close to the Westport area. Surveillance footage showed Ponder wearing a blue polo shirt marked with “Center School District” and “Officer Ponder,” indicating his role as a district employee.
The victim was seen walking away when Ponder allegedly shot him in the back.
The shooting caused panic in the area and culminated in a crash involving the victim’s white SUV, which struck a motorcyclist before coming to a halt.
Bystanders attempted to help, but the victim was found bleeding and unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Charges Filed Against Ponder
| Charge | Description |
|---|---|
| Second-Degree Murder | Intentional killing without premeditation |
| Unlawful Use of a Weapon | Illegal firearm discharge |
| Armed Criminal Action (x2) | Use of a weapon while committing a felony (2 counts) |
The Jackson County Circuit Court formally charged Ponder following the release of a probable cause statement, which included witness accounts, surveillance video, and police identification.
Eyewitness Accounts and Crash Aftermath
An eyewitness, riding a motorcycle nearby, recalled hearing a gunshot, turning to see a man—later identified as Ponder—holding a weapon while the victim ran away. The victim’s SUV then plowed into a group of motorcyclists, injuring one.
A second motorcyclist provided aid to the fallen rider and attempted to assist the victim in the SUV, who showed no signs of responsiveness. Emergency services were immediately contacted, but the victim was later confirmed dead at a nearby hospital.
School District Response
Following the incident, Center School District issued a formal statement, confirming that Ponder will no longer be reporting for work. The district emphasized:
“The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community remain our top priority. We will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as appropriate.”
They clarified that no students were involved in the incident, and it occurred off school property during the holiday weekend.
Surveillance Footage and Identification
The pivotal breakthrough in the investigation came from surveillance footage, which captured the entire sequence of events. Ponder was seen:
- Engaging in a heated argument with the victim.
- Shooting the victim as he turned away.
- Wearing a district-issued shirt, clearly labeled.
Law enforcement officers recognized the shirt as official Center School District attire. Additionally, a fellow member of the district’s security team positively identified Ponder from the surveillance footage.
The tragic shooting near Westport that led to the death of an unidentified victim has resulted in serious criminal charges against a Center School District security guard.
The incident has not only left a community in shock but also raised urgent questions about vetting and oversight in school security staffing.
As the investigation proceeds, both the district and the broader public await justice and reassurance in the wake of this deeply unsettling event.