Additional Coverage:
Teen Shooting Case Moves Forward
An 86-year-old man accused of shooting a Black teenager in Kansas City last year will face trial on February 18th.
The defendant, Andrew Lester, has pleaded not guilty to assault and armed criminal action charges. A mental evaluation has been completed, but its contents are sealed.
The victim, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, survived the shooting but was left with a scar. Yarl’s family is grateful that the case is moving forward.
Lester’s defense has argued that publicity about the case could bias a jury. However, the judge overseeing the case has not yet delayed the trial date.
Yarl is still coping with trauma from the shooting. His mother hopes that the trial will bring justice and prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
If convicted, Lester could face up to life in prison.