Shortly after 1:00 a.m. on July 24, 2023, Kansas City police responded to gunfire near East 80th Street and Forest Avenue and found a man in a grassy area beside the roadway suffering apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency crews transported him to a nearby hospital, where he died shortly after arrival. The victim was identified as 36-year-old Demetrius Alexander LaNear, known as DA. Born in Kansas City and later having spent time in Virginia Beach, he was remembered for his love of the outdoors and science and is survived by his wife, parents, and five siblings.

Homicide detectives had not arrested a suspect in the days after the shooting. Investigators canvassed the neighborhood and sought persons of interest, asking the public to contact the TIPS Hotline; a reward was being offered for information that could lead to an arrest. Is there anyone who knew Demetrius or who can help explain what happened that night?