Kansas City News Blog

Add two more to the death toll. Like Crime Scene KC, we thought Rodney Kemp was Kansas City's first homicide of 2009. Turns out there were two before him.

The Kansas City Star says the Jackson County Medical Examiner ruled the death of 4-month-old Jeremiah Candler, who died last year, a homicide on Monday. On November 18, the baby was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The Star says the police wouldn't release additional details for fear of hurting their investigation.

Also Monday, Freddy Medina, 16, died after being shot in the head while drinking and posing for pictures with a rifle that he had bought on the street. Medina and three friends were partying in his bedroom at 1:35 a.m. last Friday.

The Star says:

One friend felt woozy and loosened his grip on the rifle. When the gun began to fall, he tightened his grip, causing the gun to fire.

The friends ran from the house.

Homicide detectives questioned Medina's three friends (although that term seems a little strong) and let them go. Police say the shooting appears to be accidental, although the investigation continues.

Update: The Star says Candler died of starvation. -- Justin Kendall