Kansas City Man Charged in Fatal 2023 Shooting

Jackson County prosecutors have filed second-degree murder charges against 24-year-old Derrick L. Swain.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Crime — General

Kansas City Man Charged in Fatal 2023 Shooting

Jackson County prosecutors charged 24-year-old Derrick L. Swain with second-degree felony murder following a deadly 2023 shooting in Kansas City. Authorities allege Swain was involved in the incident that occurred near 12th Street and Denver Avenue.

Why it matters

The charges represent a significant legal development in the investigation of a shooting that claimed a life over three years ago. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to process violent crimes and secure suspects.

Derrick L. Swain is currently held at the Jackson County Detention Center on a $150,000 cash-only bond for murder charges. He also faces an additional $26,000 bond regarding separate probation violations and failure-to-appear charges.

The players

Derrick L. Swain

He is the 24-year-old suspect currently charged with second-degree felony murder and multiple weapon-related offenses.

Jackson County Detention Center

This is the secure correctional facility where the suspect is currently being held while awaiting legal proceedings.

The details

Surveillance footage captured the suspect driving a stolen vehicle before making a U-turn near the shooting site. Passengers in the car then opened fire on the victims, and the victim eventually succumbed to their injuries one week later.

May 6, 2023: The vehicle used in the shooting was stolen.
May 7, 2023: The shooting occurred in Kansas City.
May 9, 2023: Police recovered the stolen vehicle.
May 14, 2023: The shooting victim died.
October 27, 2026: Prosecutor announced charges against Derrick L. Swain.

Legal Context

This case follows the established pattern of prosecuting cold case violent felonies where investigative evidence is processed over several years. Such filings reflect the continued commitment of the legal system to pursue accountability regardless of the time elapsed since the crime.

The filing of these charges provides a sense of closure to an investigation that began in 2023. Local residents may see continued activity regarding this case as the legal proceedings move forward through the Jackson County court system.

The takeaway

This case serves as a reminder that criminal investigations can remain active for years as law enforcement gathers evidence. Families of victims and local communities are encouraged to monitor public court dockets for updates on upcoming hearing dates.