Shawn Elmer Carter was 45 when he was shot and killed on Sunday, January 8, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas; his death was ruled a homicide. Known as Heavy, Carter was described as a devoted family man who enjoyed music, dominoes, and dancing. He had been raising his six-year-old niece after her parents died and helped raise two nephews after their father’s death.

A public visitation was held January 19, 2023, followed by a funeral service at Love Fellowship Church in Topeka. He is survived by his father, two nephews, and his niece. No public announcements have been made about arrests or identified suspects, and the investigation remains ongoing.

If anyone knew Shawn or has information about the shooting, please come forward to the investigators handling the case.