On December 13, 2021, authorities in Kansas City, Missouri, launched a homicide investigation following the shooting death of 34-year-old Cory A. Haley. Police were dispatched around 12:15 a.m. to a residence on 82nd Terrace near Euclid Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crime scene outside a home in the neighborhood but learned that the victim had already been transported to Research Medical Center by a private vehicle. Despite medical efforts, Haley succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide, determining that Haley had suffered fatal gunshot wounds to his face, neck, chest, and back. Investigators learned that Haley had been staying temporarily at the residence with a roommate, identified as Roy J. Puls. Witnesses reported that tensions had risen in the home that evening, with Haley becoming involved in a verbal argument with other individuals present. Puls, reportedly annoyed by the conflict, decided to leave the premises. As he exited the house carrying a bag, Haley followed him outside. Moments later, witnesses heard gunshots and observed Haley stumbling back into the residence, stating he had been shot.
Surveillance footage from the area captured a white heavy-duty truck speeding away from the scene shortly after the shooting. Detectives used this footage, along with a cell phone found at the scene that belonged to the suspect, to identify the driver as Roy J. Puls, a 26-year-old white male. Authorities alleged that Puls fired multiple shots at Haley before fleeing. A manhunt ensued, and on January 11, 2022, a fugitive task force tracked Puls to an address in Greenwood, Missouri.
When law enforcement attempted to apprehend him, Puls fled on a motorcycle, leading officers on a pursuit that ended in Lee’s Summit, where he was taken into custody. The Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office charged Puls with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with Haley’s death. During the investigation, it was revealed that Puls had told his mother shortly after the incident that he had acted in self-defense, claiming he was scared because Haley was coming after him. Puls was held on a $250,000 cash-only bond following his arrest.
