Community in Shock After Local Sports Reporter Shot

News Summary

On January 10, 2025, the Platte County community mourns the tragic loss of beloved sports reporter Dennis Andrew Sharkey Jr. after he was shot in his vehicle on Interstate 29. The investigation continues as friends and family remember his impact on the community and gather support for his grieving mother through a GoFundMe campaign.

Community in Shock After Fatal Shooting of Local Sports Reporter

The heart of Platte County is heavy with grief after a beloved local sports reporter, Dennis Andrew Sharkey Jr., tragically lost his life in a shooting on January 10, 2025. As 50-year-old Sharkey sat in his vehicle on Interstate 29, he became a victim of an unprovoked act of violence that has left his family, friends, and the entire community reeling.

A Sad Discovery

Late in the evening, around 7 p.m., police received calls about a vehicle off the road. When they arrived, they found Sharkey, who had been shot inside his car. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead shortly after being taken to the hospital. The circumstances surrounding this tragic event are being investigated by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, with help from the Kansas City Police Department’s Metro Squad, as they work diligently to piece together the events leading to this devastating moment.

A Life Remembered

Sharkey was not just a sports reporter for the Platte County Citizen, where he passionately covered local high school sports; he was also a cherished son, cousin, friend, and a dedicated caretaker for his mother, who is now left to face the world without her loving husband and son. The family has shared that the emotional weight of this double loss is profound, especially for Sharkey’s mother, who is already grappling with significant financial burdens.

Community Spirit Shines

In light of this tragedy, Sharkey’s family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and assist with living costs for his grieving mother. They have highlighted Sharkey’s unwavering support for his family, his enthusiasm for life, and his deep connection with the community, all of which make this loss all the more heartbreaking.

A Fan at Heart

Sharkey was also known for his spirited fandom – an avid supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs, he relished the weekends spent tailgating at Arrowhead Stadium, passionately cheering for his team. Many who knew him remember his infectious joy and the way he brought friends and family together to share in the excitement of the game.

The Investigation Continues

As for the investigation into the shooting, authorities continue to pursue leads, asking for anyone who may have been in the area of I-29 between Barry Road and Northwest 72nd Street that fateful evening to come forward. Initial reports suggest a confrontation between vehicles, resulting in a single shot being fired at Sharkey’s car, leading to his untimely passing.

A Call for Justice

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that could lead to an arrest, emphasizing the community’s determination to bring justice for Sharkey and his family. The outpouring of support from local residents, who have taken to social media to express their condolences, speaks volumes about the person Sharkey was and the impact he had on all who knew him.

The Community Joins Forces

The sudden loss of Dennis Andrew Sharkey Jr. has left an indelible mark on Platte County. His colleagues, friends, and the high school athletes he covered regularly are all coming together to remember a life filled with laughter, love, and community ties. As they rally around his family in this time of need, one thing is clear: the spirit of Platte County shines brighter than ever, even in the face of unimaginable grief. Together, they will keep his legacy alive while supporting his family through these challenging times.