Wichita, Kansas – Devario Edwards, a man from Wichita, tragically lost his life after being fatally shot by police late Wednesday night.
The incident occurred in the 3900 block of South Oliver Street, outside the Spirit AeroSystems facility, following a pursuit and armed standoff involving law enforcement officers from both the Wichita Police Department and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, the sequence of events began around 9 p.m. when Edwards allegedly attempted to shoot an acquaintance at a nearby residence. However, his firearm malfunctioned, and no shots were fired. Edwards fled the scene, leading law enforcement to initiate a manhunt.
As authorities tracked Edwards, they discovered that he had broadcasted alarming statements on Facebook Live, including threats to provoke a deadly confrontation with police. His broadcast mentioned Spirit AeroSystems as a potential location.
A license plate reader located Edwards’ vehicle near the facility, prompting a high-speed chase that ended in the Spirit AeroSystems parking lot. There, Edwards exited his vehicle and fired approximately 20 rounds from a rifle, hitting two deputy vehicles. In response, law enforcement officers returned fire, striking Edwards multiple times. He was pronounced dead at approximately 1 a.m.
Wichita Police Department spokesperson Andrew Ford emphasized the importance of monitoring social media in modern law enforcement, noting, "His Facebook Live provided vital information, allowing responding officers to prepare for the situation."
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation has taken over the investigation as is customary for officer-involved shootings.