Kaden Bauswell was a 15-year-old boy from Kansas City, Kansas, known for his exceptionally giving spirit. His family remembered the White male as a son, grandson, cousin, and friend who was always looking for ways to help others. On his walk home from school, he would get to know people in the homeless community. When he traveled for his baseball team, he would ask his grandfather for money to give to anyone he saw in need.
His mother recalled that he would try to give his entire paycheck away to help those less fortunate.
On the afternoon of June 8, 2021, Kaden was on a sidewalk in the 6600 block of Cleveland Avenue, near Hazel Grove Elementary School, when he was shot. First responders transported him to a local hospital, but he died from his injuries. His sudden, violent death sent a shockwave of grief through his family and community. In the days that followed, a fundraiser was organized to help his family with unexpected funeral expenses.
Investigators with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department began working the case, and witnesses reported seeing suspects flee the scene in a vehicle. The investigation led them to identify two juvenile suspects. On June 24, 2021, authorities announced that two teenagers had been arrested in connection with Kaden’s death. The U.S. Marshals Metro Fugitive Task Force arrested a 17-year-old in Nebraska, while U.S. Marshals in Las Cruces, New Mexico, took a 16-year-old into custody.
Following their arrests, the teens were slated to be returned to Kansas to face charges in Wyandotte County. One of the defendants was formally charged with first-degree premeditated murder. As of June 2024, the criminal proceedings remain pending in court as Kaden’s family waits for a final resolution. To honor his memory, his family created an annual event called "Kindness for Kaden," where they collect donations of food, water, and clothing for foster children and the homeless, ensuring his legacy of generosity continues.
