Michael Bushnell
Northeast News

Charges have been filed against a Kansas City man in connection with last Thursday’s officer-involved shooting at Roberts Street and Indiana Avenue.

James A. Ponder, 46, has been charged with multiple felonies including resisting arrest, property damage in the third degree, and three counts of assault.

Police were dispatched to the area near Independence Avenue and Indiana Avenue last Thursday, Oct. 3 at 1 p.m.

According to police sources, officers with the Fugitive Apprehension Unit were attempting to take Ponder into custody, who had an outstanding felony warrant.

As officers approached his vehicle, the suspect put his vehicle in gear and pointed it at one of the officers on the scene.

That officer, fearing he would be struck by the vehicle, discharged his weapon at the suspect in the vehicle.

While fleeing the scene, the suspect struck at least two police vehicles, sending one over a curb and into a fence.

The suspect also drove through numerous yards and fences before leaving the scene.

Officers traced Ponder’s vehicle to a residence near 20th and Askew where he was taken into custody and given medical attention for a gunshot wound to the chest.

According to Captain Tim Hernandez, the suspect was struck by police gunfire at least one time.

“We’re always hopeful that we can take individuals into custody peacefully and without incident,” said Hernandez. “In this, he made a decision that he didn’t want to do that and do whatever he could to get out of the area, driving through yards in a residential area, striking numerous vehicles in the process.”

He was transported to an area hospital where he was listed in fair condition.

Prosecutors have requested a bond of $20,000 in the case.