KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A 24-year-old man already incarcerated is facing new charges for a murder that took place over seven years ago. Lavont Carter has been accused of the fatal shooting of K.C. Gillespie outside an apartment complex in March 2018.
Currently serving a 15-year sentence at the Moberly Correctional Center in Missouri for manslaughter and other charges, Carter has now been charged with first-degree murder. The revelation comes after prolonged efforts by law enforcement and the victim’s family to seek justice. “After all these years, he finally has to answer for what he did to K.C., which was murder,” said Michelle Gillespie, K.C.’s mother. She encourages other parents affected by gun violence to remain persistent. “Don’t give up on your pursuit of justice. Keep contacting the detectives and hold them accountable.”
Michelle Gillespie revealed that her son, then just 20 years old, was attempting to purchase a firearm when he was shot multiple times. A pivotal Snapchat conversation between K.C. and Carter was instrumental in cracking the case. After a thorough presentation by detectives to the Wyandotte District Attorney’s office, the charges against Carter were filed.
The impact of K.C. Gillespie’s death continues to affect his daughter Kali, who was just 2 years old when her father was killed. Michelle shared poignant memories of how Kali copes with the loss, recalling her daughter’s heartfelt remarks, such as wishing to send kisses to her dad in heaven. “It breaks your heart,” she reflected.
In addition to this case, Carter has been implicated in the deaths of two other men during violent incidents that also left children without their fathers. In a 2020 mass shooting in Westport, he was arrested after the death of 17-year-old Devin Harris, who had a young daughter at the time. Despite evidence collected at the scene, including 97 shell casings, the case was ultimately dismissed by the prosecutor’s office.
Further complications arose in 2022 when Carter was tied to another incident in Westport that resulted in the death of 24-year-old Cardell Crawford and multiple injuries. He is currently serving his sentence in connection with that shooting as well.
Michelle Gillespie expressed her frustration over the systemic issues related to gun violence. “It’s heartbreaking to know so many children will grow up without their dads,” she said, noting Carter’s history of gang involvement. With previous interactions between law enforcement and gang task forces concerning Carter, Gillespie emphasized the ongoing concerns about his presence in society.
The emotional toll has been profound for Michelle, who lost her father just a day after K.C.’s tragic death. Reflecting on their close bond, she revealed that a joint funeral was held for both K.C. Gillespie and her father, Russell Mantooth, in 2018. As the family seeks closure, the pursuit of justice remains paramount in their quest to honor the memory of those lost.