The Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) is investigating the deaths of a father, mother, and their 12-year-old son in their Northland home as a double murder-suicide, with preliminary evidence suggesting the father was the perpetrator. The three family members were found dead in their home on Monday, April 1, 2024.
Officers conducted a welfare check at the family’s home just after 9:45 a.m., and discovered the bodies, each presenting with “apparent bodily trauma.” The KCPD found Domonique A. McGeachy, and her son, Jerel, Jr., with fatal gunshot wounds, while Jerel McGreachy Sr.’s injuries appeared to be self-inflicted.
The investigation remains in its early stages, with law enforcement officials not actively pursuing other people involved in the incident. The police’s findings were informed by a distressing social media post made from the child’s account earlier that morning, hinting at familial discord and references to parental separation and disciplinary actions. This post, according to reports, has led to further scrutiny by detectives over the family’s dynamics leading up to the tragedy.
Both Jerel Sr., 38, and Domonique, 38, were employed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as a police officer and a nurse, respectively, marking their professional paths with service to veterans. Domonique, in particular, was remembered through a photograph on her son’s Facebook page, dressed in a U.S. Army uniform and sharing a moment of joy.
The Department of Veterans Affairs expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Terrence L. Hayes, the department’s press secretary, issued a statement conveying condolences to the family’s relatives, friends, and colleagues, reflecting on the profound impact of the tragedy.
Jerel Jr. was known in his community for his academic excellence and public speaking abilities. He recently participated in events honoring Black History Month, including giving speeches at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park in Topeka, Kansas, and for the Wichita, Kansas chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the nation’s oldest intercollegiate historically Black fraternity. His articulate and moving orations earned him accolades and admiration from peers and adults alike.
The community’s reaction to the deaths has been one of shock and mourning. Jerel Jr., in particular, was lauded for his intelligence and potential as a future leader, and his memory honored by the fraternity and individuals who knew him. The legacy of his speeches and the impact he had on his audience is expected to inspire others to strive for excellence and positive change.
As the investigation continues, the KCPD has not released further details about the circumstances leading to the shootings or the family’s history. The focus remains on understanding the events that precipitated this tragedy and providing support to those affected by the loss.
Counseling resources have been made available to students and community members in need, as the city comes together to mourn and remember the McGeachy family.