## A Voice Silenced: Platte County Sports Reporter Killed in Tragic Shooting
The world of sports journalism has lost a dedicated voice. In a senseless act of violence that has shocked the Kansas City community, a promising young reporter for KMBC has been tragically killed.
Platte County Citizen Sports Reporter Killed in Shooting
Tragic Loss for Journalism Community
The journalism community is mourning the loss of Dennis Sharkey, a 50-year-old sports reporter for the Platte County Citizen, who was tragically killed in a shooting on Friday night. Sharkey was found shot inside his car near I-29 and Northwest 72nd Street, marking a devastating blow to the local news scene and leaving colleagues and friends grappling with the suddenness of his passing.
According to information provided by the Platte County Citizen and KMBC News, Sharkey was on his way to cover a high school basketball game when the incident occurred. This detail adds a poignant layer to the tragedy, highlighting the dedication Sharkey had to his work and his passion for covering local sports.
Sharkey’s Legacy at the Platte County Citizen
The Platte County Citizen, where Sharkey had been a dedicated sports reporter since 2018 and again in 2023, expressed profound sadness over his loss. The newspaper described Sharkey as a “hard worker and a longtime contributor” who took his job seriously and understood the importance of delivering unbiased news to the community.
Sharkey’s reporting extended beyond the realm of sports. He also covered county commission meetings, demonstrating his commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of local events.
Remembering a Dedicated Journalist
“Everybody’s just speechless,” said Adam Johnson, one of the owners of the Platte County Citizen. Johnson and his brother Will, the other owner, shared their memories of Sharkey, emphasizing his love for all things sports and his knack for covering successful local teams.
Sharkey’s colleagues at the Citizen have been deeply affected by his passing. The news editor, in a statement to KMBC, described him as a “hard worker and a longtime contributor” who will be deeply missed.
Ongoing Investigation
Platte County deputies are actively investigating the shooting, but as of now, there is no word on a suspect. Authorities are urging anyone with information that could help the investigation to come forward. The Crime Stoppers tips hotline is available for anonymous reports.
The community is left reeling from this senseless act of violence. The loss of Dennis Sharkey is a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face while fulfilling their vital role in informing the public.
Morningpicker extends its deepest condolences to Sharkey’s family, friends, and colleagues at the Platte County Citizen during this incredibly difficult time.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Platte County Citizen sports reporter, [Reporter’s Name], is a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face in their pursuit of truth and storytelling. This senseless act of violence not only shatters a community but also casts a shadow over the vital role reporters play in holding power accountable and informing the public. This incident underscores the urgent need for increased safety measures and protection for journalists, both locally and nationwide. It compels us to reflect on the often-overlooked risks they take to bring us the news, and to consider how we, as a society, can better support and safeguard those who dedicate their lives to informing us. The silencing of a voice dedicated to covering the stories of his community is a blow to the very fabric of a free and open society. Let [Reporter’s Name]’s legacy be a call to action: a plea to protect the brave men and women who risk their lives to illuminate the truth, and ensure that their voices continue to be heard.