Kansas City police have identified the two victims found fatally shot inside a car on the afternoon of Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the intersection of 12th and Belmont Avenues.
The victims, Matthew Suri, 19, and Maximiliano Ruiz, 16, were discovered dead inside the vehicle shortly after 12:44 p.m. when police responded to a shooting report in the area.
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The tragic deaths of these two young men have left the Kansas City community reeling and searching for answers. Investigators are actively working to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting, which appears to have occurred while the victims were still inside the car.
Police believe the two teens were shot by one or more suspects, though the precise details of the incident remain unclear at this time. No known motive has been confirmed as of Sunday.
Matthew Suri, a 19-year-old from Kansas City, was described by friends and family as a kind and compassionate young man with a bright future ahead of him.
Known for his love of sports and his easygoing nature, Matthew had many friends who looked up to him for his loyalty and good-heartedness. His tragic death has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him best.
Maximiliano Ruiz, just 16 years old, was also remembered as a vibrant and promising young person. Friends and family recall Maximiliano as someone with a contagious smile and a personality that could light up a room.
Despite his youth, Maximiliano had already shown a passion for art and a drive to succeed, leaving behind unfulfilled dreams and aspirations. His passing has left his community shaken, as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of such a bright young life.
According to police reports, officers responded quickly to the shooting call and found the victims inside the vehicle. At this point, they have not released specific details regarding the events that led to the shooting but believe that the two victims were inside the car when they were shot.
Investigators have confirmed that one person of interest has been taken into custody for questioning, though it is still unclear how that individual may be connected to the shooting. Detectives are working diligently to determine the individual’s exact role in the incident and whether any further suspects are involved.
The Kansas City Police Department has not yet revealed whether the shooting was targeted or random, and they are continuing to gather evidence and speak with witnesses. As part of the investigation, police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
Homicide detectives can be reached at 816-234-5043, or individuals can anonymously report tips to the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. Those who provide tips may be eligible for a reward of up to $25,000, depending on the value of the information provided.
This double homicide marks yet another painful chapter in the ongoing issue of gun violence in the Kansas City area. While the investigation continues, local residents, community leaders, and advocates are calling for a greater effort to address the underlying causes of violent crime and ensure that those responsible for these senseless acts are brought to justice.
The senseless loss of two young lives has underscored the urgency of finding solutions to stem the tide of violence that continues to plague the city. The deaths of Matthew Suri and Maximiliano Ruiz have sparked an outpouring of grief and solidarity from the community.
Friends, family, and neighbors are sharing tributes to the young men, remembering them as vibrant, compassionate individuals with bright futures ahead. The senselessness of their deaths has left many searching for answers and hoping for justice, not just for the victims, but for their grieving families as well.
As the investigation moves forward, the Kansas City Police Department has pledged to do everything in their power to bring those responsible for this tragedy to justice. In the meantime, the community holds its breath, hoping for the swift resolution of this case and for the healing of the wounds left by the loss of Matthew and Maximiliano.
