A 22-year-old Kansas City man has been charged in the triple murder on Sept. 8, 2015, of Bianca Fletcher, her 1-year-old son and Shannon Rollins, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.
Joseph L. Nelson, dob: 9/30/1992, faces three counts of Murder 1st Degree, three counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Burglary 1st Degree.*
According to court records, about 9:25 the evening of Sept. 8, 2015, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the 5900 block of E. 84th Street on a reported shooting. Three victims were found fatally shot inside, two adults and a male infant. No shell casings were found and some of the victims’ personal belongings were missing. Witnesses stepped forward and told police that Nelson shot Bianca Fletcher. Nelson told one witness that “other things had to be done” after he first shot Bianca Fletcher. After shooting all three victims, he cleared the room of shell casings and the firearm was later sold. He told witnesses he showered several times and washed his hands with bleach. Another witness corroborated Nelson’s role in these shootings saying Nelson told him, “I killed them. I killed them.” Another witness told police of how Nelson had a verbal confrontation with one victim before he shot her and killed the others.
Prosecutors have requested a bond of $1 million.
Statements from the victims’ family follows:
From the father of Bianca and Grandfather of JF (Richard Fletcher): “I want to thank police for their quick action to bring justice to all. That’s what I can say. This is for all. Not just my family. My daughter and grandson were precious. We are hurting and angry but we are grateful justice is being sought for my daughter and grandson. Regarding Shannon, as a father, I approved of Shannon – he was a very good influence on my daughter. We will miss him. I praise God that the police acted so quickly.”
From the parents of Shannon Rollins: “Shannon was our heart. Our child was a wonderful young man, full of life. He loved everyone. He tried help those he could. Each of us needs to teach our kids how to solve problems without senseless violence, without resorting to a gun. Shannon was determined, he was talented – he wanted to be a dancer. The loss is unbearable for us, but we will find strength in God. And the light of the world is just a little more dim because Shannon’s light no longer burns. “
*Charges are only accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless anduntil the defendant is either found guilty or has pleaded.