Andrew Lester, the Kansas City man who pleaded guilty to felony assault in the second degree for shooting Ralph Yarl, has died while awaiting sentencing, according to Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson. “We have learned of the passing of Andrew Lester and extend our sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time,” Thompson said.
“While the legal proceedings have now concluded, we acknowledge that Mr. Lester did take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty in this case.”
Lester, 86, was set to go on trial for shooting Yarl, a Black teenager who mistakenly knocked on his door, but entered a guilty plea last Friday. He was expected to be sentenced on March 7, facing up to seven years in prison. Initially, he had been charged with felony assault in the first degree and armed criminal action after shooting Yarl in the head and arm on April 13, 2023. Yarl, then 16, suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Yarl’s family expressed disappointment in the case’s outcome. “Justice was never truly served,” they said. “The news of Andrew Lester’s passing brings a mix of emotions, but it does not bring justice.” They reaffirmed their commitment to fighting for a future “where no child fears for their life because of their race.”
Yarl’s mother, Cleo Nagbe, previously criticized the plea deal. “About two years ago, we knew Mr. Lester was guilty,” she told ABC News. “We let him do what he wanted … and waited two years for him to say, ‘I’m going to plead guilty to the lesser of the charges.’ So we’re sick of this. Let’s just move on and give this kid a chance to live as a regular kid.”
Lester’s attorney, Steve Salmon, had argued that his client’s deteriorating health—including heart issues, a broken hip, and memory problems—was a factor in delaying the trial. However, in November, a judge ruled Lester was fit to stand trial.
Reflecting on the shooting, Yarl told Good Morning America in July 2023, “He points [the gun] at me … Then it happened. And then I’m on the ground … before I know it, I’m running away shouting, ‘Help me, help me.’”
Link: ABC News