On a summer morning in Kansas City, Missouri, the life of 45-year-old Terrance M. Bell was tragically cut short. On June 21, 2025, police were called to a residence in the 4200 block of East Linwood Avenue in the Knoches Park neighborhood around 10:20 a.m. following reports of a shooting. Inside the home, they discovered Bell in the kitchen, suffering from gunshot wounds to his back.
He was rushed to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and, despite medical efforts, succumbed to his wounds hours later.
Terrance Marshall Bell, born in Kansas City on January 7, 1980, was a mechanic at Mike's Auto Repair and a graduate of Center High School. He was known for his charismatic personality and his love for grilling, making music, and spending time with his extensive family and friends. His passions included fishing, attending Chiefs football games, and playing video games. He was remembered as someone who loved working with his hands and was always willing to help others in his community.
The investigation into Bell's death quickly led to a suspect. According to a witness who was with Bell at the time of the incident, they were in bed when they heard a knock at the back door. The witness reported hearing a commotion, followed by a man's voice, identified as De'Onte Thompson, telling Bell not to move. Three gunshots then rang out. The witness saw Bell attempting to close the back door before the suspect fled the scene. Investigators found two spent 9 mm shell casings near the back door of the residence.
Following the investigation, the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office filed charges against De'Onte Thompson. He faces one count of second-degree murder and one count of armed criminal action in connection with the fatal shooting of Terrance Bell. Thompson was taken into custody and is being held without bond pending his initial court appearance.
