Two women killed in Kansas City nightclub shooting

Victims' families mourn loss as police search for suspects

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Two women, Eboni Silas and Tishauna Ballard, were killed in a shooting at a Kansas City nightclub early Sunday morning. The gunfire also critically injured two others. Family and friends gathered to mourn the victims, with one mother describing her daughter as a 'happy person' who 'just wanted to give out love.' Police are still investigating the incident and have not released information on any suspects.

Why it matters

Violent crime at nightclubs is a concerning trend, raising questions about security measures and the ability of venues to keep patrons safe. This tragedy has devastated the victims' loved ones and the broader community, underscoring the need for solutions to prevent such senseless acts.

The details

The shooting occurred around 2 a.m. on Sunday at Status Nightclub in Kansas City's Southwest Boulevard area. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots inside the crowded club as people were dancing and celebrating Valentine's Day weekend. In addition to the two women killed, a third victim suffered life-threatening injuries and a man was also hurt.

  • The shooting took place around 2 a.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • A vigil was held outside the nightclub on Monday, February 17, 2026 to honor the victims.

The players

Eboni Silas

A 29-year-old woman who was killed in the shooting.

Tishauna Ballard

A 24-year-old woman who was killed in the shooting.

Tamika Bowman

The mother of Tishauna Ballard, who described her daughter as a 'happy person' who 'just wanted to give out love.'

Jamie Richardson

A friend of Eboni Silas who said Silas had plans and goals for the future.

Raymond Banks

A witness who was inside the nightclub when the shooting occurred and tried to help the victims.

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What they’re saying

“I miss her so much right now. All I want is to is hold my baby, and I can't.”

— Tamika Bowman, Mother of Tishauna Ballard

“She liked throwing parties and having fun, and she just was a happy person. Like, she just wanted love. Just to give out love. That's how she was.”

— Tamika Bowman, Mother of Tishauna Ballard

“We were literally just planning her future for 2026, so I want people to know that she was very, very smart and she had plans for her future.”

— Jamie Richardson, Friend of Eboni Silas

“Everybody was having a good time. And all of a sudden, you just heard the shots that rang, for a couple moments, and then there were more shots after that.”

— Raymond Banks, Witness

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the shooting and are asking anyone with information to come forward. The judge will also decide on Tuesday whether to allow any suspects out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for improved security measures and community-based solutions to address gun violence at nightlife venues. The victims' families and friends are devastated, underscoring the human toll of such senseless acts and the importance of finding ways to prevent them in the future.