By Crash News Writer 
Kansas City, KS (August 27, 2025) – Kansas City, Kansas Police Officer Hunter Simoncic was tragically killed early Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to stop a fleeing suspect.
According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, officers first responded around 12:30 a.m. on August 27, 2025, to reports of gunfire in the 7700 block of Everett Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a man unconscious in a truck. When officers approached, the suspect—identified as 29-year-old Dennis Mitchell III—woke up and fled the scene, initiating a high-speed police chase.
During the pursuit, Mitchell reportedly abandoned his truck, commandeered another vehicle, and continued fleeing. Officer Simoncic, 26, was deploying stop sticks near the 7200 block of State Avenue when Mitchell allegedly veered toward him and struck him with the vehicle. Simoncic was rushed to a hospital but was later pronounced dead.
Mitchell crashed shortly after near the 6400 block of Kaw Drive and was taken into custody. He now faces several charges, including first-degree murder, vehicular homicide, fleeing law enforcement, and firearms violations.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This report is based on official law enforcement statements and will be updated as more details become available. For additional help following a tragedy, please review our frequently asked questions in Kansas.
- Officer Simoncic was 26 years old and killed in the line of duty while protecting his community.
- Suspect Dennis Mitchell III faces multiple felony charges, and formal proceedings are underway.
- Kansas City residents may experience traffic disruptions as the investigation continues and memorial services are arranged.
Those affected by this tragedy may find assistance through accident and victim support resources in Kansas, which include legal and emotional recovery services.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or medical advice. All information is accurate as of publication. Read our full disclaimer for more.
If your loved one was killed or injured in a similar incident, speak with a trusted Kansas personal injury and wrongful death lawyer to explore your legal rights and begin the path toward justice.