TOPEKA, KS — A tragic shooting in the 1300 block of SW Boswell Avenue shook Central Topeka late Monday night, prompting a swift response from police, fire, and medical personnel. The incident unfolded just after 10:24 p.m., when multiple gunshots were heard by residents throughout the neighborhood and as far away as the Washburn University area.
According to real-time updates from a local police scanner Facebook group, officers were already in the area and were the first to report the gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered a male victim lying unresponsive in the street, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately initiated CPR, but despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident occurred near the intersection of 13th and Boswell, just across from a church and flower shop, and in proximity to Boswell Park. Witnesses reported hearing six to eight loud gunshots, followed by the sound of sirens within minutes. One resident noted that the shots sounded like they came from a larger caliber weapon, differing from the usual “pop-pop” sound that some have sadly become accustomed to in the area.
Police quickly secured the scene for first responders, and community members began posting their accounts online. Several neighbors expressed grief and concern, recalling a time when the neighborhood felt safe and doors were left unlocked. Others described a shift in the area’s safety over the years, citing an increase in transient populations and gun violence.
Some bystanders witnessed emergency vehicles racing through the area and reported that a suspect may have fled the scene by car. As of this writing, no suspect has been publicly identified, and authorities have not released the victim’s name pending family notification.
Comments on social media reflected a deep sadness and anxiety shared by residents:
“It’s so quiet now it’s weird,” one poster wrote, expressing the eerie calm that followed the violence.
“We used to stay outside until dark without worry,” another long-time resident said. “Now I’m thinking about moving.”
By early Tuesday morning, police were still present at the scene, with lights from patrol cars still visible along the block. A helicopter was reportedly seen circling the area around 10 p.m., suggesting a possible aerial search for suspects or surveillance.
As of now, Topeka police have not released an official statement regarding the suspect, motive, or investigation status.
ThisIsTopeka.com will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available. If you live in the area and have photos, video, or firsthand accounts, you can submit them confidentially to [email protected].
