A suspect was arrested in the homicide case of Erik Stokes. On early Wednesday, 18-year-old Easton G. Palmer was booked early Wednesday on suspicion of first-degree murder and aggravated battery. Moreover, on Tuesday, police released a photo seeking two suspects in the shooting death of 17-year-old Stokes in the 3800 blocks of West 13th Street North Sunday evening.
Suspect Allegedly Booked for a Violent Crime
The Wichita Police Department arresting the suspect and according to Sedgwick County Jail booking, the suspect was booking. Forcing their way in, the three suspects armed with handguns came into the apartment with five people there. Then, investigators say the five people went into a bedroom and immediately shots were fired by the suspects. Sadly, Erik Stokes and another 17-year-old boy were victims. A second teenager did survive.
Investigators do believe the shooting was drug related. Detectives are working to locate two other suspects, Davidson said.
Suspect: Surveillance Video
On Tuesday, the police released a surveillance video. The video showed two suspects along with a request for the help to identify them. On numerous tips from the community, Office Charley Davidson said it led to Palmer’s arrest Tuesday evening at a home southwest of Kellogg and Maize Road.
“The community helps solve violent crimes in Wichita, time and time again,” Chief Gordon Ramsay said. “We appreciate the community’s help and ongoing support.” “In fact, this is a prime example.”
The two people in the picture are suspects. That is what WPD says the investigators have determined. If, in fact, you do recognize them, call detectives at (316) 268-4407 or call Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111.
GoFundMe For Eric Stokes Funeral
There is a GoFundMe setting up by Stokes’ close circle of friends. To date, it has raised more than $2,500 to help with funeral expenses.
Grieving Friends of Eric Stokes
“He didn’t deserve to go out this way, so for me and all my friends, as well as anybody else who wants to help, I just want to try my hardest to make it a good ending for him,” Stokes’ friend Dawson Bugeresca said.
