An 84-year-old man from Kansas City, accused of shooting a Black teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell, has surrendered to authorities and was subsequently released on bail, officials reported. Andrew Lester faces charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action for the April 13 incident involving 16-year-old Ralph Yarl. Ralph, who was shot in the head and arm, had gone to the wrong address to pick up his siblings and is now on a challenging path to recovery.
Lester, who claims there were no words exchanged before he fired through a locked glass door, turned himself in and was released on a $200,000 bond. The bond conditions prevent him from possessing weapons or contacting Ralph or his family. Ralph’s family, while relieved by the charges, acknowledges the long journey ahead for both Ralph’s healing and the pursuit of justice.
Questions have arisen about why Lester was initially detained but released shortly after the shooting. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed concern over the brief detention period, noting that in Missouri, a 24-hour hold is possible. Lester reportedly told police he was frightened by Ralph’s presence and believed the teen was attempting to break in.
The shooting has sparked protests in Kansas City, with demonstrators demanding justice for Ralph and recalling similar cases like those of Trayvon Martin and Ahmaud Arbery. Ralph’s attorneys argue that the teen posed no threat and question whether Missouri’s "stand your ground" law will be used in Lester’s defense.
Ralph’s aunt, Faith Spoonmore, disputes the notion that Ralph’s size could be perceived as threatening, emphasizing her commitment to seeking justice. Mayor Lucas suggested racial profiling played a role in the shooting, a sentiment echoed by Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson, who acknowledged a racial component in the case.
The incident has drawn national attention, with President Joe Biden speaking to Ralph and his mother, discussing Ralph’s aspirations and the importance of addressing gun violence. A GoFundMe page set up to support Ralph’s medical expenses has raised over $2 million, highlighting the widespread support for the teenager and his family.