For Immediate Release
August 8, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced charges against a Blue Springs man for a fatal shooting that took place in northeast Kansas City.
Arel Dawkins faces 1st Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action. *
According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on Morrell Avenue in the northeast neighborhood in Kansas City on August 6 and located the victim on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.
Based on eyewitness testimony and surveillance footage, the defendant ran over the victim with his Ford F-150, then got out and shot her multiple times at close range while she was on the ground after premeditation. He walked toward the street, turned back, and fired at her again. After reloading his weapon, he returned and shot her again before driving away.
The defendant’s cell phone also pinged in the area of the crime scene just prior to the homicide.
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