Attorney Argues for Immunity in Deadly Lawrence Bar Shooting

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Legal counsel for one of the two 18-year-olds charged in the fatal shooting at Jayhawk Cafe, also known as The Hawk, in Lawrence, Kansas on January 17 has filed a motion for immunity. The motion claims Daitron Daniels Strickland fired his gun toward a wall next to the bar's front door after he was "scared by multiple gunshots in close proximity to him" and that he "did not aim at anyone." Daniels Strickland is charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder, but his attorney argues his use of force was justified.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal issues around self-defense claims, particularly in the context of a chaotic and violent incident like a bar shooting. The outcome of the immunity hearing could set an important precedent for how Kansas courts interpret the state's self-defense laws.

The details

According to the motion, Daniels Strickland returned fire toward a wall next to The Hawk's front door after he was "scared by multiple gunshots in close proximity to him." The motion claims he "did not aim at anyone." An 18-year-old was killed and a 16-year-old was critically injured in the shooting. Daniels Strickland is charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder, but his attorney is arguing his use of force was justified in self-defense.

• The shooting occurred around 1:45 a.m. on January 17, 2026.
• Daniels Strickland provided a statement to police at 4:12 a.m. on January 17, 2026.
• The immunity hearing is scheduled for February 10, 2026.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 10, 2026 whether or not to grant Daniels Strickland immunity from prosecution based on his self-defense claim.