Prosecutors in Missouri are moving to upgrade the charges against two individuals, Jordan Willis and Ivory J. Carson, in connection with the deaths of three Kansas City Chiefs fans found frozen in their friend’s backyard in Kansas City in January 2024. The case has been under thorough investigation for over a year, with initial charges of involuntary manslaughter now being considered as second-degree murder.
The victims — Clayton McGeeney, 37; Ricky Johnson, 38; and David Harrington, 36 — were found dead during an NFL watch party on Jan. 9, 2024, in their friend’s backyard. Carson, who was allegedly supplying cocaine to Willis and the victims, had his DNA found on a bag containing fentanyl, according to court records.
Willis’ attorney, John Picerno, has voiced strong opposition to the upgraded charges, stating that the felony murder statute is being misused. Picerno said it was unexpected and disappointing that Jordan was charged with the deaths of his three friends, citing a shift in the prosecution’s stance from what was previously communicated. He emphasized that his client maintains innocence and was not responsible for purchasing or supplying the drugs that led to the deaths of his friends.
Picerno also noted the probable cause statement submitted by the state was consistent with what Jordan stated happened. He remains hopeful that a jury will get to hear all evidence in the case. These developments highlight the ongoing legal complexities surrounding the incident, as both parties await the resolution of the trial and its potential impact on future cases of similar nature.