MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
A former Hutchinson Monarchs player was killed following a shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, on Saturday. Deputy Elijah Ming was a 9-year veteran of the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office.
Ming, 34, was critically wounded around 3:45 p.m. while responding to a call for assistance at a residence in the 2600 block of South 30th Street. A woman had contacted law enforcement seeking help to move out, citing threats involving a firearm made by a man at the home.
Ming and a Kansas City, Kansas, police officer arrived at the scene when the shooting occurred. Ming was rushed to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. The suspect, identified by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as 40-year-old Shawn Harris, barricaded himself inside the home, prompting a standoff that lasted approximately two hours. Harris was eventually shot when he exited the home; his condition has not been released.
Shortly after 8 p.m., police confirmed that Ming had succumbed to his injuries.
In addition to his service in law enforcement, Ming was remembered for his days as a player with the Hutchinson Monarchs baseball team. The organization shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, recalling his “quiet confidence,” dedication to a future in law enforcement, and the joy he brought to the dugout during NBC World Series tournaments.
“Elijah’s smile could light up a room,” the team wrote. “He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.”
Ming’s death marks another tragic loss for the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office, which has faced multiple line-of-duty deaths in recent years. Community members, fellow officers, and friends have expressed condolences and shared memories of Ming’s faith, service, and impact. field.
An investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Funeral arrangements for Deputy Ming have not yet been announced.