For Immediate Release
May 28, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced felony charges against a Kansas City man in connection with a fatal shooting that took place near Westport on May 23.
Marquis Ponder faces 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. *
According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to the area of Westport Road and Broadway Boulevard and located the victim suffering from a gunshot wound in a vehicle. He was transferred to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.
Based on surveillance footage, the two interacted and exchanged words while inside a nearby business. The victim exited and the defendant followed behind him. The two appeared to continue exchanging words and then the victim turned around and walked away from the defendant. The defendant reached his hand into his pant pocket, retrieved a firearm, and then fired at the victim. The victim ran to his parked vehicle and attempted to drive away.
The defendant is being held on a $200,000 cash 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