Four Arrested Following Early Morning Shooting at Maple Tree Apartments in Girard, Kansas — One Man Injured, Authorities Conduct Comprehensive Investigation Amid Rising Community Concern
GIRARD, KANSAS — Early Sunday morning, a shooting at the Maple Tree Apartments in Girard, Crawford County, left one man injured and resulted in the arrest of four individuals, marking a significant development in the ongoing effort to address violent crime within this close-knit community. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that four suspects have been taken into custody, reflecting swift action by local law enforcement.
The incident took place in the early hours of June 29, 2025, when residents were disturbed by the sound of gunfire at the Maple Tree Apartments complex. The normally quiet residential area was thrown into turmoil as emergency calls alerted authorities to the violent disturbance. Officers responding to the scene found one man suffering from gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for medical care. Though his injuries were serious, officials describe his condition as stable, offering hope for recovery.
Within hours of the shooting, law enforcement authorities had detained four individuals connected to the event. The suspects—identified as Rickey Burns Sr., 61; Rickey Burns Jr., 33; Cody G. Hammonds, 34; and Demitra A. Durden, 41—were arrested and booked on charges related to the shooting. Law enforcement officials are continuing to review the facts surrounding the incident to understand the motive and specific circumstances that led to this violent confrontation.
Sheriff’s deputies have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and have appealed to the public for any additional information that could aid in clarifying what transpired. Residents in the area have expressed shock and concern about the shooting, given the peaceful reputation of their neighborhood.
“I never expected anything like this in our community,” said one Maple Tree Apartments resident. “It’s unsettling to think that such violence could erupt so close to home.” This sentiment has been echoed by many, highlighting a collective desire for increased safety and community cohesion.
Authorities have assured the public that they are dedicating all necessary resources to the investigation. Their goal is to hold accountable those responsible and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The swift arrests have been welcomed by community leaders, who are calling for unity and vigilance as the investigation continues.
The shooting has also renewed calls for expanded violence prevention programs in Crawford County. Community activists and officials alike stress the importance of outreach, conflict resolution resources, and support systems to address the root causes of violence.
Law enforcement agencies are collaborating with social service organizations to increase awareness of available resources for at-risk individuals. Efforts are underway to promote community policing initiatives aimed at building trust and fostering open communication between residents and officers.
The Maple Tree Apartments incident has sparked a broader discussion about neighborhood safety and the role of community engagement in crime prevention. Local officials are planning to hold public forums to address residents’ concerns, encourage dialogue, and explore effective strategies for enhancing public security.
In addition to legal proceedings, the arrested individuals will face a judicial process that will determine the extent of their involvement and appropriate penalties. Prosecutors are carefully examining evidence gathered from the scene, witness testimonies, and forensic analysis to build a strong case.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family has requested privacy as they support their loved one through recovery. The community has shown solidarity, offering support and assistance to the injured man and his family during this challenging time.
As Girard grapples with the aftermath of this shooting, there is a shared commitment among residents and officials to heal and strengthen community ties. The incident has served as a wake-up call about the importance of safety, vigilance, and proactive measures to protect neighbors and homes.
Residents are encouraged to participate in neighborhood watch programs and to report any suspicious activity promptly. Increased police patrols in the area are also expected as authorities work to reassure and protect the community.
The Maple Tree Apartments shooting underscores the need for ongoing attention to public safety issues in small towns, where violence can have outsized effects on community well-being. By working together, Girard aims to ensure that such incidents remain isolated and that residents can continue to enjoy a peaceful, secure environment.
Authorities plan to provide further updates as the investigation progresses. They emphasize that justice will be pursued diligently while respecting the rights of all individuals involved.
This incident is a sobering reminder of the challenges communities face in combating violence, but also highlights the resilience and solidarity of Girard’s residents. Through cooperation, education, and effective law enforcement, the town strives to emerge stronger and more united in its commitment to safety.
While the journey to recovery and justice may be long, the community’s response so far reflects a shared determination to uphold peace and protect its members. As the story unfolds, Girard’s residents hold onto hope for healing, resolution, and a renewed sense of security.
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