Three teenagers have been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of a well-known Kansas City radio personality.
According to KMBC, 18-year-olds Aaron Johnson, Mark Nash Jr., and Marquel McGee were arrested after James “Uncle Jimmy” Dodds was fatally shot outside his Kansas City, Kansas home on Sunday.
Police responded to the scene around 7:15 p.m. and found Dodds suffering from critical injuries. He was rushed to a hospital, where he later died on Monday.
Authorities say the shooting stemmed from a dispute involving people known to members of Dodds’ family.
“Some of his family members knew the individuals. So, it stemmed from a disagreement. But once again, we’re seeing people’s inability to control their anger,” KCK Police Chief Karl Oakman said.
Dodds’ landlord, Michelle Karanja, told KMBC that the longtime radio host was sitting inside his vehicle when the shooting occurred.
“My husband was home working on the deck, and he heard three gunshots go off, and he started looking around for it. And then soon after, the ambulance and everything showed up,” she recalled.
Karanja also shared that Dodds’ two sons, who had been living with him, are now relocating to live with their mother.
“It’s very surprising to have a shooting happen here. He was a very good tenant. We never had any problems with him. It was very quiet over there. It’s certainly a tragedy,” she said.
Dodds, 64, was a respected sports talk radio figure who worked alongside former television host and podcaster Jason Whitlock. During an episode of Fearless on Tuesday, Whitlock paid tribute to his longtime friend.
“Jimmy was a great friend. Jimmy did the best that he could. Jimmy was talented,” Whitlock said. “Jimmy had great intentions… Jimmy I just want to say job well done and we will miss you and certainly loved you.”
