CRIME / JUSTICE
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Two years after the deadliest mass shooting in Kansas City history, the last adult defendant to be sentenced walked out of a Jackson County courtroom Friday with a two-year prison term — and murder charges that were dropped entirely.
Terry Young, 21, pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a weapon, a single felony count, in connection with the February 14, 2024, mass shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade. One woman, Lisa Lopez-Galvan, 43, was killed, and 23 others were injured that day. Young had originally been charged with second-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. All charges except the weapons count were dropped as part of a plea agreement.
Jackson County Judge Michelle Cocayne sentenced Young to two years in the Missouri Department of Corrections with credit for time already served — meaning he could be released almost immediately. His family sat on one side of the courtroom; Lopez-Galvan’s family sat on the other.
“We live with the flashbacks of the shooting and waking up every day knowing she won’t be there,” said Adriana Galvan, Lopez-Galvan’s 20-year-old daughter, breaking down while addressing the court.
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson expressed disappointment with the outcome, saying Missouri’s “Stand Your Ground” law tied her hands and prevented pursuit of the more serious charges. “We strongly agree with the Lopez-Galvan family that the greatest justice would be having Lisa back and home with her family,” Johnson said.
One suspect in the shooting, Lyndell Mays, remains in Jackson County jail on $1 million bond, and prosecutors say their office will continue to pursue justice in his case.
