In the early hours of January 15, 2018, the life of Travis Larsen, a 37-year-old White / Caucasian male from Topeka, Kansas, was tragically cut short. Just after midnight, police responded to a report of a gunshot in the vicinity of 22nd Park and Mulvane. Upon their arrival, they discovered Larsen deceased in his vehicle, which was found in a tree line.
He had sustained a fatal gunshot wound.
The investigation into the homicide quickly led to a person of interest, 21-year-old Zachary Buck-Schrag of Topeka. Later that same day, Buck-Schrag turned himself in to the Lawrence Police Department. He was subsequently arrested and faced charges of Felony Murder, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. No other suspects were publicly named in connection with the incident.
Court proceedings revealed the encounter between Larsen and Buck-Schrag began at a service station. Buck-Schrag claimed that he and a friend were threatened by Larsen and another man who allegedly flashed an ammunition clip and made unfriendly remarks. He stated that Larsen's vehicle then pursued his. The situation escalated when Larsen's car reportedly struck Buck-Schrag's vehicle. It was at this point that Buck-Schrag fired multiple shots, one of which fatally struck Larsen in the head. Buck-Schrag's assertion of self-defense was ultimately rejected by the court, and a jury convicted him of first-degree felony murder and other related charges.
Travis Larsen was remembered by his loved ones for his vibrant personality and his dedication to helping others. At the time of his death, he was a student at Washburn University, pursuing a degree in Human Services Addiction Treatment Administration. He also devoted his time to volunteering at Positive Connections, a local organization. His friends and family described him as someone who loved life, enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities, and cherished the time he spent with others. A celebration of his life was held on January 20, 2018, to honor his memory.
