Authorities have charged a man from Kansas City with multiple felonies, including three counts of murder and animal abuse.
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Per a report by KMBC, the incident occurred on Sunday just after midnight. Officers from the Platte County Sheriff's Office responded to a 911 call reporting gunshots near NW 65th Street and Green Hills Road at around 12:45 am. Police have charged Armando Navarro, 50, with three counts of first-degree murder. His alleged victims are three women: Hailey Hopcus, 24, Jodie Hopcus, 49, and Sherri Duncan, 73.
The report alleges that Navarro was Jodie's boyfriend, and all three victims lived in the same house. Police also allegedly found a dog with a fatal gunshot wound at the house.
Another of Jodie's daughters, who authorities have not named, reportedly managed to escape. She allegedly told police that Navarro was the shooter and that he drove away from the crime scene in a Ford Exhibition, which belonged to one of the victims. Authorities reportedly identified the vehicle in Abilene, Kansas, and took Navarro into custody.
A report by Fox4 alleges that Navarro was asked to leave the house multiple times after an argument. When he left the room, the family thought he was going to pack his bags, but he returned with a gun and knife.
KMBC also alleges that charging documents state that a man called 911 asking for police to check on the family. He reportedly spoke to Navarro after the incident, where he said he had "killed them all."
The Prosecution May Seek The Death Penalty
In a statement, Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd said, "The surviving victim lost her mother, her grandmother, and her sister. My prayers are with the entire family, and I want you to know that we will utilize the full weight of Missouri law to bring this defendant to justice." A reporter from KMBC alleges that Zahnd may be seeking the death penalty.
A friend of the family has set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs for Jodie, Sherri, and Hailey. The page explains that all three fell victim to 'domestic violence' over the weekend. It also alleges that the youngest daughter 'was home and witnessed her mother, grandmother, and sister's tragic passing.' At the time of writing, the fundraiser has raised $18,261 of a $75,000 goal.
Police are reportedly detaining Navarro without bond in Dickenson County.
