On January 7, 2024, a chilling discovery was made in suburban Kansas City when three men were found dead in a backyard. Ricky Johnson, David Harrington, and Clayton McGeeney, longtime friends, had gathered at a rented home to enjoy an NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers. The cause of their deaths was determined to be the toxic effects of fentanyl and cocaine.
The home where the incident occurred was rented by Jordan Willis, a 39-year-old scientist who works remotely for a New York hospital. Following the tragic event, Willis moved from the residence. In connection with the deaths, prosecutors have charged Willis and another individual, Ivory Carson, with the distribution of a controlled substance and involuntary manslaughter.
Legal Proceedings in Motion
The legal ramifications of this tragic incident extend beyond criminal charges. Jon Harrington, a family member of one of the deceased, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Platte County Circuit Court. The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and aims to secure damages exceeding $25,000 from each defendant, Willis and Carson.
The lawsuit contends that Willis and Carson are responsible for the deaths. Despite these allegations, Willis’ lawyer, John Picerno, has come forward to defend his client’s innocence. He asserts that Willis was not involved in procuring or supplying the drugs that led to this tragedy.
"Jordan maintains that he is not responsible for purchasing or supplying the drugs that led to the deaths of his three friends" – John Picerno
Unraveling the Night of the Incident
On the night of January 7th, temperatures plummeted to 29 degrees as the group gathered to watch the Chiefs' game at Willis’ rented home. The men were described as having been close friends for many years. The unexpected turn of events has left their community in shock and mourning.
While charges have been filed against Willis and Carson, Picerno emphasizes that Willis had no knowledge of any drug use that night. He insists that his client would have sought help had he been aware of any danger.
"Had he known, he certainly would have called for help" – John Picerno
The Path Forward
As legal proceedings continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illicit substances. The case has drawn attention to the responsibilities of individuals hosting gatherings and the legal implications of substance-related deaths.
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