Two Charged in Deaths of Three Kansas City Chiefs Fans Found After Watch Party
Prosecutors have charged two men in connection with the deaths of three Kansas City Chiefs fans, who were found dead more than a year ago outside a Missouri home following a watch party.
On Wednesday, authorities charged Jordan Willis and Ivory Carson with distribution of a controlled substance and involuntary manslaughter in the deaths of Ricky Johnson (38), David Harrington (37), and Clayton McGeeney (36). The men were found deceased on January 7, 2024, at a home rented by Willis in Kansas City, according to a probable cause statement filed by police.
Cause of Death Confirmed
The case drew national attention due to the mystery surrounding their cause of death. Court records released Wednesday revealed that the three men died from toxic effects of fentanyl and cocaine.
Legal Defense & Investigation
Willis’ attorney, John Picerno, emphasized his client’s innocence, stating that Willis did not purchase or supply the drugs that led to the deaths. Willis, a 38-year-old scientist, works remotely for a New York hospital and lives alone, according to Picerno.
Carson’s legal representation was not immediately known. Both men are currently in custody at a Platte County detention facility.
Discovery of the Bodies
The victims were last seen alive during a Chiefs-Chargers watch party on January 7, 2024. The temperature that night dropped to 29 degrees Fahrenheit.
Two days later, McGeeney’s fiancée went to the home after not hearing from him. Finding no response, she broke inside and discovered one of the men dead in the backyard. Police arrived and found the other two victims nearby.
Families Suspected Drug Overdose
For months, authorities stated there was no evidence of foul play. However, toxicology reports later confirmed the presence of fentanyl and cocaine in their systems.
David Harrington’s family previously speculated that drugs may have played a role, though they insisted he was not a drug addict. His mother, Theresa Harrington, stated in an interview:
“David wasn’t a drug addict. If he took the drugs, he took them to get high, not to die.”
Prosecutor’s Statement
Platte County District Attorney Eric Zahnd emphasized that law enforcement exhausted all resources to bring charges in the case.
“Some people believed charges would never be brought, but we do not rest on homicide cases until we have pursued every possible lead to bring justice.”
Friends Since Childhood
Obituaries confirmed that the three victims were lifelong friends, having graduated from Park Hill High School together.
Willis’ attorney stated that he and his client were shocked by the charges, as he was previously told by prosecutors that charges were unlikely.
Willis maintains he had no knowledge that his friends were still in his backyard or that they required medical help.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
As the case progresses, further details may emerge regarding the exact circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths of these three football fans.