For Immediate Release
Jan. 19, 2023

A Kansas City man, 21, faces multiple felony counts in connection with the July 10, 2022, shootings in Westport that killed one victim, Cardell Crawford, and injured others, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.

Lavont A. Carter, dob: 5/6/2001, faces Murder 2nd Degree, three counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, two counts of Assault 2nd Degree and six counts of Armed Criminal Action.*

According to court records, on July 10, 2022, a large crowd of individuals were involved in a altercation inside and outside the Westport Ale House. Video surveillance cameras from the area showed police that the defendant outside the location is seen raising his arm in a shooting position. Video also shows victims reacting or limping or falling to the floor. Spent shell casings were found at the scene Six total victims were wounded by gunfire. The defendant is shown on video leaving the scene in a vehicle.

The defendant was charged in November 2022, but charging documents were placed under seal until he could be taken into custody. That occurred this week..

For more information, contact:

Michael Mansur

Director of Communication
Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office
Jean Peters Baker, Prosecutor
Work : (816) 881-3812
Mobile : (816) 674-3954
www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com
mmansur@jacksongov.org

*Charges are only accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the defendant is either found guilty or has pleaded guilty.