Marina
A sense of grief and disbelief grips South Kansas City following the tragic shooting death of El Mercado Fresco owner Gande Salamed, 49, who was killed early Sunday morning while opening the store.
The incident, which left two people dead, has left the Hickman Mills and Ruskin communities reeling, prompting an outpouring of grief from residents, customers, and local leaders.
The tragedy has renewed calls for stronger community safety measures as authorities continue their investigation.
What Happened at El Mercado Fresco
| Incident Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim Name | Gande Salamed |
| Age | 49 years |
| Date of Incident | Sunday, 7:00 a.m. |
| Location | El Mercado Fresco, Blue Ridge & Longview Road |
| Other Victim | Name not yet released |
| Years at Store | 7 years (since Save-A-Lot became El Mercado Fresco) |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by Kansas City Police |
| Funeral Date | Tuesday (as confirmed by management team) |
According to authorities, Salamed was shot while unlocking the store’s entrance. Another person was also killed during the same incident, though police have not released that victim’s name.
Shock and Grief Among Residents
The loss of Salamed has deeply affected those who frequented the grocery store. Security guards and officers patrolled the area on Monday afternoon as the community tried to process the violence.
Regular customer Mecca Hazziez described how she was on her way to church Sunday morning when she saw police cars filling the parking lot. She stopped to pray with the grieving family.
“They were pretty devastated. He was always there with the cameras, greeting customers. They’re good people. It’s crazy that this has happened,” Hazziez said.
Another customer, Brent Morris, noted how unsettling it was to see such violence near a place families visit daily:
“You see kids here all the time. To see this kind of violence happen here is heartbreaking,” Morris said.
Local Leaders React
Missouri State Representative Mark Sharp, who lives just a few blocks away, said he heard the gunfire from his home and expressed sorrow for the community’s loss.
“This is a grocery store that many families in Hickman Mills and Ruskin depend on. To see gun violence take the life of one of its partner-owners is terrible news for South Kansas City,” Sharp said.
Sharp added that the killing underscores the urgent need to tackle gun violence and improve safety around local businesses that serve as community hubs.
A Beloved Figure in the Community
Gande Salamed had worked at El Mercado Fresco for seven years, since the store opened after replacing a former Save-A-Lot. He was described by coworkers and customers as dedicated, friendly, and always present.
“He sat near the entrance every day, keeping an eye on things, greeting people. Everyone knew him,” said a store manager on Monday.
Anthony Estrada, who works with the store’s management team, confirmed that Salamed’s funeral will be held on Tuesday and will be attended by employees, customers, and local community members.
Community Safety Concerns
This incident has reignited concerns over safety in commercial areas of South Kansas City. Many residents worry that increasing gun violence could discourage small businesses from operating in the area and erode trust in community spaces.
Since the shooting, security presence has visibly increased, with officers and private guards patrolling the shopping center where El Mercado Fresco is located.
Residents are urging stronger security measures, better lighting, and more visible patrols to prevent similar tragedies.
How to Help the Investigation
Police are still actively investigating and seeking public assistance. Anyone with information that may help solve the case is urged to contact the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.
Authorities emphasize that anonymous tips are welcome and could play a crucial role in bringing those responsible to justice.
The tragic killing of Gande Salamed has shaken the South Kansas City community, leaving a void at a grocery store that many considered a cornerstone of daily life. As police continue their investigation, residents and leaders are uniting to demand safer neighborhoods, hoping to prevent further tragedies.
For now, the focus remains on honoring Salamed’s memory, supporting his grieving family, and seeking justice for a man who served his community faithfully for years.