On the night of Wednesday, October 23, 2019, officers responded to reports of gunfire at a home in the 5600 block of Crescent Avenue in Raytown, Missouri. Just before 10:40 p.m., they found two adult men inside the residence with life‑threatening gunshot wounds and transported both to a local hospital.

One of the victims was 28‑year‑old Phillip James of Kansas City. He died of his injuries the next day, Thursday, October 24, 2019. The other victim remained hospitalized in stable condition. Family members described James as a dedicated father and entrepreneur who had recently started a lawn care business and was known for his cooking.

The Raytown Police Department opened a homicide investigation, processed the scene, and asked the community to call the TIPS Hotline with information. No suspects or charges were named in initial public reports.

If anyone knew Phillip, was in that neighborhood that night, or has information about the shooting, please contact the TIPS Hotline.