Murder-Suicide in Wichita: Police Investigate Multi-Victim Shooting Spanning Two Locations Involving Family and Neighbors—42-Year-Old Suspect Allegedly Kills Four Before Taking Own Life”
Overview of the Incident and Police Response
On the evening of November 10, 2024, Wichita police responded to a tragic and complex scene involving multiple fatalities in what authorities believe to be a murder-suicide. The chain of events, which spanned two separate residences and resulted in five deaths, has left the local community in shock. Police reports indicate that 42-year-old Joshua Stickney allegedly shot and killed four individuals—his father, stepfather, and two neighbors—before taking his own life. The Wichita Police Department (WPD) received the initial call around 5:45 p.m. and responded to what would turn into a multifaceted investigation that unfolded over several hours.
The incident marks one of the most severe cases of interpersonal violence Wichita has seen in recent years. Authorities have confirmed that all five individuals sustained fatal gunshot wounds, and preliminary evidence suggests that the firearm used in each shooting was found near Joshua’s body, indicating his involvement in each death. As the community mourns, WPD is working to reconstruct the timeline, motive, and circumstances that led up to the killings, with the goal of bringing clarity to this senseless tragedy.
Initial Discovery and Crime Scene at South Santa Fe
Wichita police were first called to the residence at the 1700 block of South Santa Fe after a neighbor reported concerns about a possible death. Upon arrival at approximately 5:45 p.m., officers were met with a devastating scene. Inside the residence, police discovered the body of 67-year-old Anthony Stickney, who had sustained a fatal gunshot wound. Investigators identified the last person seen with Anthony as his son, 42-year-old Joshua Stickney, which immediately directed the investigation toward locating Joshua as a potential witness or suspect.
The officers began canvassing the neighborhood, speaking with nearby residents and gathering surveillance footage to trace Joshua’s recent movements. Witnesses reported seeing Joshua enter his father’s home earlier in the day, but there had been no apparent disturbances reported until the initial 911 call. The discovery of Anthony Stickney’s body triggered an immediate search for Joshua, leading officers to his residence on the 1900 block of South Laura Avenue, less than a mile from the first crime scene.
Police Uncover Additional Victims at Joshua’s Residence
Shortly after 7:00 p.m., police arrived at Joshua’s home on South Laura Avenue, where they encountered yet another tragic discovery. Through the window of the home, officers observed two unresponsive individuals. Due to the nature of the situation, officers forced entry into the residence, where they found Joshua Stickney’s body along with two additional victims, 66-year-old neighbor Donald Dodge and Joshua’s stepfather, 55-year-old Terry Meyer. All three men appeared to have suffered gunshot wounds, and investigators noted the presence of a firearm near Joshua’s body.
Based on the initial evidence at the scene, investigators concluded that Joshua’s fatal gunshot wound appeared self-inflicted, leading authorities to classify this case as a suspected murder-suicide. Detectives immediately began assessing the physical evidence to confirm if the weapon found near Joshua was the same one used in each of the shootings. Early results from ballistics tests supported this hypothesis, suggesting that the same firearm was responsible for all four fatalities, strengthening the theory that Joshua was the perpetrator in each case.
Discovery of Fourth Victim During Welfare Check
While officers conducted their investigation at the South Laura Avenue residence, they sought assistance in securing Joshua’s personal effects, including his pet, to ensure no further distress or complications for family members in light of the tragedy. During these inquiries, police reached out to 39-year-old Alan Young, another of Joshua’s neighbors, who was known to assist with his pet care. When officers arrived at Alan’s nearby home, they observed him lying unresponsive through a window. Entering the residence, they confirmed that Alan had also been shot.
This revelation added a heartbreaking new dimension to the case, bringing the total number of victims to four, excluding Joshua. It became apparent to investigators that each of the individuals, connected either by family or neighborhood ties to Joshua, had been targeted in a deadly chain of events. By this point, the gravity of the situation was clear, and police moved to reassure the community, emphasizing that they believed this was an isolated incident and that no other suspects were involved or at large.
Community Reeling in the Aftermath of Tragedy
The news of the murder-suicide has sent shockwaves through the Wichita community, particularly affecting those who knew the victims. Friends and neighbors have expressed sorrow and disbelief, sharing memories of the deceased and recounting their last interactions with the individuals involved. Many in the neighborhood have described Anthony Stickney as a kind, soft-spoken individual and Joshua as someone who was often reserved but generally well-regarded by neighbors. The news has sparked conversations within the community regarding mental health and the need for resources to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Local leaders and organizations are working to support those affected by the tragedy, offering counseling services and organizing memorial gatherings for the victims. Several churches and community centers have opened their doors to grieving residents, providing a place to gather and process the loss. Community leaders have also planned a vigil for later in the week to honor the victims and provide a space for healing, with religious and community organizations collaborating to offer support.
Ongoing Investigation and Potential Motives
At this time, the motive behind the shootings remains unclear. Police have refrained from commenting on any specific details regarding Joshua’s mental health, personal history, or any recent life events that could have contributed to the tragedy. However, they have noted that all possible factors are under examination, including personal conflicts and stressors that may have escalated into violent behavior. Officers are conducting in-depth interviews with family members, friends, and other neighbors to piece together any information that could help explain the incident.
As part of the investigation, WPD is examining electronic devices, including cell phones and computers, for any clues that might reveal Joshua’s state of mind in the days leading up to the shootings. Investigators are also reviewing social media activity, text messages, and emails to determine whether Joshua had communicated any intentions, frustrations, or threats. Law enforcement officials are committed to a thorough analysis, hoping to provide answers to the families of the victims and the community.
Ballistics and Forensic Evidence
Forensic specialists have prioritized ballistics tests on the firearm found near Joshua to confirm its involvement in each of the shootings. Early reports suggest that the weapon matches the bullets recovered from each victim, supporting the theory that Joshua acted alone and used a single firearm throughout the incident. Additionally, forensic teams are analyzing physical evidence from both locations, such as fingerprints, DNA, and gunshot residue, to build a comprehensive understanding of the sequence of events.
Crime scene investigators are also documenting the layout of each residence and the position of each victim at the time of discovery. This information will be critical in establishing a clear timeline and sequence for the shootings, helping to corroborate witness statements and other evidence.
Implications for Public Safety and Community Support
The tragic event has raised concerns about the impact of mental health issues, family conflict, and neighborhood tensions on community safety. Wichita police have emphasized the importance of early intervention and support for individuals struggling with personal and familial issues, noting that local resources are available for those who may feel overwhelmed or are experiencing crisis situations. Community organizations and mental health professionals have echoed these sentiments, encouraging residents to seek help or report any warning signs they may observe among family members, friends, or neighbors.
In response to the tragedy, city officials are exploring ways to increase funding and access to mental health resources, including counseling services, crisis hotlines, and community outreach programs. Local leaders are advocating for proactive measures to address the underlying factors that can lead to violent incidents, such as social isolation, untreated mental health conditions, and unresolved conflicts.
Preventive Measures and Resources for Families in Crisis
In light of the recent events, the Wichita community is rallying to improve awareness of mental health resources and preventive measures. Community health organizations are increasing efforts to educate residents on recognizing signs of distress and responding appropriately. Workshops and informational sessions on conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and emotional well-being are being organized to provide individuals and families with the tools needed to cope with stress and seek help before situations escalate.
Local officials are also working with law enforcement to develop strategies for early identification of potential threats and to encourage open communication between neighbors, friends, and family members. By fostering a sense of community and encouraging supportive relationships, Wichita aims to reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future.
Conclusion: A Community’s Commitment to Healing and Prevention
The murder-suicide that claimed five lives in Wichita has left a profound impact on the community, as residents, friends, and family mourn the loss of individuals who were well-known and cherished. In the wake of this tragedy, Wichita’s leaders, organizations, and residents are coming together to offer support and work toward preventing such incidents from occurring in the future. While the investigation continues, and police work to provide closure to the families, the community is focused on healing and honoring the memories of those lost.
The incident has underscored the importance of community engagement, mental health support, and the need for compassionate intervention in times of crisis. As Wichita moves forward, the city is committed to fostering resilience, providing resources for those in need, and building a safer, more supportive community for all. Through collaboration and a renewed focus on mental health and conflict resolution, Wichita hopes to emerge stronger and more united in the wake of this unspeakable loss.
