In a case that stunned Kansas City, Kansas, Lakevis L. Sloan has been handed a prison term exceeding 25 years for the 2023 shooting death of a 6‑year‑old boy, Sir’Antonio Brown. The case marks one of the most tragic incidents in recent years, prompting heartbreak, legal wrangling, and broad media coverage.
The Crime: What Happened
- The shooting took place on May 3, 2023, in Kansas City, Kansas, near Greeley Avenue and North 31st Street, while Sir’Antonio was playing outside his home.
- Witnesses and evidence indicate the vehicle Sloan was in passed the yard, turned around, then fired multiple shots into the area where the child was.
- Investigators say the shooters saw the child, yet still shot — showing disregard for human life.
- After the shooting, Sloan fled and evaded capture for over two weeks. He was eventually arrested with a 17‑year‑old accomplice as they disembarked a bus in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Plea, Charges & Sentencing
- In May 2025, Sloan pleaded guilty to second‑degree murder, aggravated assault, and aggravated child endangerment.
- The plea agreement allowed both sides to argue for a sentence in the range of 15 to 26 years.
- Though Sloan could have faced over 56 years in prison and fines up to $700,000, the negotiated plea lowered maximum exposure.
- The judge opted to impose the maximum within that agreed range, ordering consecutive sentences on the counts, resulting in over 25 years in prison.
- Prosecutors had pushed for maximum terms across all counts.
Personal Statements & Defense Arguments
- During the sentencing, the judge called the killing “unacceptable,” and poignantly stated that no mother should have to bury her child.
- Sir’Antonio’s mother testified, recalling her son’s final words: “I love you. Have a good day at work.”
- The defense sought leniency, pointing to Sloan’s challenging past and mental health issues: anxiety, impulse control disorder, ADHD, substance abuse.
- A psychologist testified that while Sloan suffered from disorders, he did know the difference between right and wrong.
Key Facts at a Glance
ItemDetails
VictimSir’Antonio Brown, age 6
PerpetratorLakevis L. Sloan…