Kansas City Man Charged After Allegedly Shooting at Mission Police Officer

Suspect accused of attempted capital murder, burglary, and interference with law enforcement

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Prosecutors have charged a 35-year-old Kansas City man named William Parker III with attempted capital murder of a law enforcement officer, burglary, and interference with law enforcement after he allegedly fired a handgun at a Mission police officer during a burglary investigation outside a Target store.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers police officers face when responding to potential crimes in progress, and raises questions about bail reform and public safety in the Kansas City metro area.

The details

According to charging documents, on March 15, officers were investigating a burglary at a Target store in Mission, Kansas when a person carrying duffel bags left the store through the back. When an officer tried to question the suspect, the person allegedly ran and fired several shots during the chase. The officer returned fire, striking the suspect. No officers were injured.

  • The incident occurred around 4:40 a.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • Parker is due in court at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The players

William Parker III

A 35-year-old Kansas City man charged with attempted capital murder of a law enforcement officer, burglary, and interference with law enforcement.

Mission Police Department

The police department that responded to the reported burglary in progress and exchanged gunfire with the suspect.

Johnson County Officer-Involved Critical Incident Team

The team investigating the officer-involved shooting.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must protect our officers and the public from violent criminals who threaten public safety.”

— District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Parker to be released on bail, which has been set at $1 million cash or surety.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in balancing public safety, officer protection, and bail reform, as they work to apprehend and prosecute suspects who resort to violence when confronted by police.