Stephon L Cunningham

Known to his loved ones as “Steph” or “Steph-Man,” Stephon L. Cunningham Sr. was a young father remembered for his goofy personality and infectious laugh, which some called the funniest they had ever heard. At 20 years old, the Kansas City, Missouri, native was described as the funniest person you could ever meet. His life, full of potential and humor, was cut short in a sudden and violent ambush in the early morning hours of Sunday, August 10, 2014.

The attack occurred in Kansas City's Crossroads Arts District, a neighborhood known for its vibrant mix of art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. Shortly after 2:00 a.m., as the weekend crowds were beginning to disperse, Stephon was a passenger in a vehicle traveling northbound on Broadway. Near the intersection with Southwest Boulevard, the car was suddenly flanked on both sides by two other vehicles. Gunmen from inside both cars unleashed a barrage of gunfire, targeting the vehicle carrying Stephon and two other people.

Kansas City, Missouri Police Department officers in the area heard the multiple gunshots at approximately 2:11 a.m. and rushed toward the intersection. There, they discovered the aftermath of the coordinated assault: a car riddled with bullets and three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency services were immediately called to the scene, and all three victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Stephon was rushed into surgery, but his injuries proved too severe. He was pronounced dead later that morning. The two other occupants of the vehicle survived the attack. One was listed in serious but stable condition, while the other sustained only minor injuries. The shooting was a shocking act of violence in a typically busy part of the city, leaving a young man dead and two others wounded.

The investigation into Stephon L. Cunningham's murder was launched immediately by the Kansas City Police Department. Detectives canvassed the area for evidence and witnesses, but the swift and unexpected nature of the attack left them with few initial leads. No descriptions of the suspects who opened fire were made public, and authorities did not release any information about the make or model of the two vehicles they used to carry out the ambush. The motive for the shooting remained unclear, and no arrests were made in the immediate aftermath.

In the days following his death, Stephon's family and friends gathered to mourn their loss. A funeral service was held on Saturday, August 16, at Calvary Chapel COGIC, followed by his burial at XII Gates Memorial Gardens. Online memorials were filled with condolences and remembrances of a young man who brought laughter and joy to those around him.

Years have passed since the deadly shooting, but the case remains unsolved. Stephon Cunningham's name is listed on the Kansas City Police Department's roster of unsolved homicides, a persistent and painful reminder for his family that justice has not yet been served. As of today, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made in connection with his murder. The investigation remains open, and detectives continue to seek information from the public.

The Kansas City Police Department urges anyone with information about the murder of Stephon L. Cunningham to come forward. Detective Robert Guffey is assigned to the case and can be reached at 816-234-5043. Anonymous tips can also be provided to the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). A reward of up to $25,000 may be available for information that leads to an arrest in this case.