For Immediate Release
May 6, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced charges against a man for his involvement in a shooting that took place yesterday outside a lounge in Independence.
Mekai G. Kelly-James faces one count of 1st Degree Assault, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and one count of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. * If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 30 years in prison.
“The defendant in this case allegedly retrieved a firearm after being escorted out of an establishment following a dispute and then opened fire instead of simply leaving the scene. Not only was a security guard shot, but dozens of innocent patrons enjoying a night out were put in danger,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “Detectives recovered at least 75 shell casings at the scene, evidence of the rapid-fire capability of the modified firearm involved in the incident. Under Missouri law, machine guns and converted automatic weapons are prohibited because of their danger and unpredictability. Weapons like these have no place in Jackson County and we will continue to prosecute those who use them to endanger our community.”
According to court records, Independence police were dispatched to a lounge near E. Valley View Parkway and Little Blue Parkway on May 5 on reports of gunfire. Officers located two security guards detaining the defendant in front of a nearby restaurant. He was taken into custody.
The victim said he and other security staff were breaking up a fight inside the lounge involving the defendant and several other patrons. The defendant was escorted out of the building. Moments later, the victim observed the defendant at a vehicle retrieving a firearm and then firing into the air and toward security staff. The victim and other security staff returned fire, and the victim sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during the exchange. The victim was able to disarm and detain the defendant at a nearby business.
A check of the defendant’s firearm revealed it had been reported stolen. A detective tested the weapon and found it had been modified with a metal bar affixed to the rear side, altering the weapon’s firing mechanism. The firearm exhibited erratic and dangerous discharge behavior, at times functioning in a fully automatic capacity.
Independence police are asking for patrons who have video footage of the incident to contact the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at (816) 474-8477 or the Independence Police Department Gun Squad at (816) 325-7330.
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.
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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