‘Our hearts ache’: Kansas law enforcement react to deadly Independence shooting

TOPEKA (KSNT) – The deadly shooting of a Missouri police officer and a civil process server has prompted multiple law enforcement agencies across Kansas to come together in support of their fellow peace officers.

On Thursday, Feb. 29, 35-year-old Cody Allen with the Independence Police Department (IDP) was shot and killed outside a home in Jackson County, Missouri. Drexel Mack, a Jackson Co. civil process server, was also killed during the incident. Two other officers were shot and wounded while the suspect was taken into custody.

The suspect in the shooting was identified on Friday, March 1 as Larry D. Acree. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action and one count of first-degree assault.

The death of Allen and Mack prompted several law enforcement agencies across Kansas to come together in solidarity with the IDP. Many took to social media to share their thoughts on the tragic deaths.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Independence Police Department as they have lost two of their own today. Below is a statement of what took place.”

Lyon County Sheriff’s Office

“Our thoughts are with the Independence Police Department and all involved in this situation.”

Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office

“Our thoughts are with the family of the fallen officers and our brothers and sisters in Independence, Mo.”

Ottawa Police Department

“Our hearts ache for the men and women of the Independence Police Department and the 16th Circuit of Jackson County as they mourn the loss of Officer Cody Allen and Process Server Drexel Mack. We are with you.”

Topeka Police Department

“Thoughts and prayers go out to the Officer’s families, agencies, and the community of Independence Missouri.”

Crawford County Sheriff’s Office

“Tragic news for our neighbors to the north this evening. Please join our office as we send our most sincere thoughts and heartfelt prayers to the Independence Missouri Police Department and the family of Officer Cody Allen and Jackson County Court Service Officer Drexel Mack who both lost their lives today in the line of duty.”

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office

“Our hearts and thoughts are with the Independence Police Department and the 16th Judicial Circuit Court of Jackson County. Officer Cody Allen and Civil Process Server Drexel Mack lost their lives yesterday in the line of duty while serving an eviction notice. We are thinking of their family, friends, and their departments during this heartbreaking time.”

Carbondale Police Department

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Independence Missouri Police Department and the family of Police Officer Cody Allen who tragically lost his life in the line of duty.”

Salina Police Department

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