Northland Neighbor Charged in Fatal Shooting Remains Jailed on $5M Bond

Wife of slain dad says lower bond wouldn't keep neighborhood 'safe'

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Jeffrey King, accused of killing his neighbor Chris Wells in Kansas City's Northland area, remains jailed on a $5 million bond as a court hearing is rescheduled. Kirsten Wells, the wife of the victim, testified that King's release would leave her and the neighborhood feeling unsafe. King's defense attorneys argued for a reduced $500,000 bond, claiming Wells was the initial aggressor, but the judge delayed the decision.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between neighbors in the Maple Woods Estates community, where King has allegedly waged an escalating 'war of torment and retaliation' against multiple neighbors for years through various means like blasting music, parking cars to block traffic, and verbally harassing residents. The fatal shooting has left the community in fear of King's potential return.

The details

According to the police probable cause statement, on the morning of the shooting, Kirsten Wells was walking her dog when she saw King's vehicle running near his yard. Wanting to avoid an encounter, she turned toward her house, and King allegedly followed her and tossed a blanket onto the Wellses' lawn. Kirsten then called 911 and her husband Chris, who returned home. The defense claims Chris Wells approached and punched King first, but the prosecution argues Wells was backing away with his hands raised when King shot him multiple times, killing him.

  • On January 12, 2026, Chris Wells was shot and killed by his neighbor Jeffrey King.
  • In August 2025, King was convicted of property damage for striking a side mirror on the Wellses' truck.
  • In December 2025, King displayed controversial banners on the back of his RV, further antagonizing neighbors.

The players

Jeffrey Traviss King

A 42-year-old resident of the Maple Woods Estates neighborhood in Kansas City, charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action for the shooting death of his neighbor Chris Wells.

Kirsten Wells

The wife of Christopher Cole Wells, the 41-year-old father of four who was shot and killed by his neighbor Jeffrey King.

Christopher Cole Wells

A 41-year-old resident of the Maple Woods Estates neighborhood who was shot and killed by his neighbor Jeffrey King.

Robert Sanders

The Clay County Assistant District Attorney prosecuting the case against Jeffrey King.

Jonathan Cook

A Kansas City homicide detective who testified at the bond hearing.

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What they’re saying

“I know I would not feel safe. I know my whole neighborhood would not feel safe if he was released.”

— Kirsten Wells, Wife of victim (Kansas City Star)

“These people have lived in fear long enough. They shouldn't have to live in fear a day longer.”

— Robert Sanders, Clay County Assistant District Attorney (Kansas City Star)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Thursday, February 19th at 3 p.m. whether or not to allow Jeffrey King out on a reduced $500,000 bond.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the dangerous escalation of a long-running neighborhood feud, where repeated harassment, property damage, and ultimately a fatal shooting have left the community in fear. It raises questions about how to address persistent neighborhood conflicts and the role of the justice system in protecting public safety.