Man Accused in Deputy's Death Faces Death Penalty

Emotional Press Conference Honors Fallen Deputy

At an emotional press conference on Tuesday, Wyandotte County Sheriff Daniel Soptic addressed the media, reflecting on the tragic loss of Deputy Elijah Ming. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community and highlighted the deep sorrow felt by many following the death of one of their own.

“This community was robbed,” Soptic said. “This family was robbed of their time with Deputy Ming.”

The Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office charged Shawn Harris, 38, with capital murder in the fatal shooting of Ming. In addition to this charge, Harris faces one count of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Harris is accused of killing Ming on Saturday during a domestic violence call. Deputies and police responded to the incident, and Ming was among those who arrived at the scene. According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Ming and a Kansas City, Kansas officer were providing protection while a woman moved out of a house when a man inside, later identified as Harris, fired multiple rounds at them. Ming was struck, while the KCKPD officer remained unharmed.

As responding officers tried to assist Ming, gunfire occurred, resulting in injuries to Harris. Ming was taken to a local hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries. After the shooting, Harris allegedly barricaded himself inside the home. He later emerged after negotiations and was treated at a hospital for minor injuries before being placed in a Johnson County jail.

A Life Remembered

During the media conference, Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree shared how Ming was remembered not only as a dedicated sheriff's deputy but also as a great father, community leader, sports coach, and volunteer.

“His life will not soon be forgotten,” Dupree said. “To the family of Deputy Ming, please know that Wyandotte County will forever be grateful for the life, the legacy, and the sacrifice that (he) made for the safety of us all.”

Sheriff Soptic stood with arms crossed, taking deep and controlled breaths as he listened to the remarks. His composed demeanor reflected the strength of the community in the face of tragedy.

Kansas City Kansas Mayor Tyrone Garner spoke about Ming’s bravery and the sacrifices he made for the community he loved.

“(Ming) was 34 years old, a young man,” Garner said. “He was a father. He was a husband. He was the epitome, as we all know, of what good police officers embody.”

KCK Police Chief Karl Oakman emphasized the collective grief felt by the law enforcement community. He noted that the incident highlights the far-reaching impact of domestic violence, which remains a critical issue in the community and across the country.

“This is another example of the far-reaching effects of domestic violence, and it is an issue in this community… and across the country,” Oakman said. “Unfortunately, in this situation, Deputy Ming was in the middle of that; which law enforcement officers are on a daily basis.”

Legal Proceedings and Background

Harris was scheduled to appear for a virtual arraignment via Zoom in Wyandotte County District Court. He is currently held without bond in the Johnson County Detention Center in Olathe, according to online booking records.

As of Tuesday, the Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office had not yet decided whether to pursue the death penalty in the capital murder charge against Harris. If convicted, he could face between 7 to 23 months in prison for the criminal possession of a weapon charge.

Harris’ charge of capital murder comes on the heels of a lengthy criminal history in both Kansas and Missouri. According to Kansas Department of Corrections records, he was released from custody last year and completed post-release supervision requirements in December.