Mandy
A 19-year-old man has admitted guilt in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in Wichita last year.
The Incident: March 2025 Shooting
On March 22, 2025, Wichita police discovered Demarc Burgess, 24, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds at a residence located near 143rd Street East and Kellogg Avenue. Tragically, Burgess later succumbed to his injuries.
The Homicide Investigation and Arrest
During an investigation, it was revealed that Jaden Watts and Burgess had been involved in an argument while recording rap music in a basement. The dispute led to Watts shooting Burgess. A couple of days later, police discovered the weapon used in the shooting, and a subsequent investigation confirmed that Watts’ DNA was found on the gun.
The Court Appearance and Plea
In Sedgwick County District Court, Watts entered a guilty plea to a charge of voluntary manslaughter rather than second-degree murder, which he was initially charged with. By pleading guilty to the reduced charge, Watts gave up his right to a jury trial. Sentencing for Watts is scheduled for March 27, 2026.
Legal Proceedings and Court Motion
Previously, Watts had attempted to invoke a self-defense motion in connection with the fatal shooting, but the court rejected it. His decision to plead guilty will now conclude the case, though the sentencing hearing will still proceed as planned.
Jaden Watts, aged 19, has pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter for the 2025 fatal shooting of Demarc Burgess in Wichita. The case will conclude with sentencing on March 27, 2026, following his guilty plea and waived jury trial.