In the early morning hours of April 17, 2025, the life of 24-year-old Hispanic/Latino male Oscar A. Ramirez was tragically cut short in Topeka, Kansas. The fatal incident unfolded around 3:00 AM outside a Kwik Shop convenience store located at 746 NE Wabash Avenue in the Oakland neighborhood. Police were dispatched to the scene following reports of a shooting and upon arrival, they discovered Ramirez with life-threatening injuries.
Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The investigation into the shooting, which marked the city's fourth homicide of the year, progressed quickly. Later that same day, law enforcement arrested 19-year-old Caleb E. Brown of Topeka in connection with the fatal shooting. Brown was taken into custody and booked into the Shawnee County Jail on preliminary charges of voluntary manslaughter with an unreasonable belief of justified deadly force, as well as possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As the investigation continued, Brown was held without bond while awaiting the filing of formal charges. Authorities released few details regarding the circumstances that led to the altercation or what relationship, if any, existed between Ramirez and the suspect.
Oscar Ramirez was remembered as a beloved father to his young daughter, Janessa Rose Ramirez. A lifelong member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, he was deeply connected to his faith and community. After graduating from Topeka High School in 2019, he worked at several local businesses, including Naly's Outdoor Co., Goodyear, and Top Hands Barber Studio. He had a passion for soccer, having played for Topeka Select, Sporting Kaw Valley Soccer Team, and the Topeka High School team. His family recalled his love for life, his unforgettable laugh, and his deep devotion to his family and friends.
