For Immediate Release
March 13, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced her office has filed several felony charges against a Kansas City man in connection with a fatal shooting that took place at a West Side gas station on July 4 last year.
Orlando Smith faces 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
“Last year’s tragic shooting highlights the danger of resolving conflicts through gun violence,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “What began as an argument escalated into gunfire and took an innocent life. We will continue to prosecute those who engage in this type of reckless behavior to the fullest extent of the law in order to prevent more senseless deaths.”
According to court records, Kansas City police responded to a gas station on July 4, 2024, and observed a female victim in her vehicle with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
Detectives reviewed surveillance video in the area showing a man, who detectives later identified as the defendant, armed with a pistol and walking toward a light pole near the gas station. An unknown man is also seen near the light pole. As the victim’s vehicle is pulling into the gas station parking lot, a muzzle flash is seen coming from where the defendant is standing.
Witnesses reported the defendant got into an argument with a homeless man, fired a shot in the air, and then attacked the man. One witness stated the defendant could not control his firearm as it continued firing until he removed his finger from the trigger.
Detectives interviewed the defendant, and he admitted to shooting a Glock 22 with an extended magazine after getting into an argument with an unknown male. He said he thought he shot twice into the ground and was not aware anyone was killed.
The defendant is being held without bond.
*Charges are only accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the defendant is either found guilty or pleads guilty.
# # #
Media Contact:
Jazzlyn Johnson
Director of Communications
Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office
415 E 12th Street
Kansas City, MO - 64106
(816) 929-1289
jazzlyn.johnson@jacksongov.org
https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com