Bryan Stalder 
Contributor 

An outside jury has sentenced Joshua Rocha to death for the 2022 murder of North Kansas City Police Officer Daniel Vasquez, a former member of the Independence Avenue CID’s Titan Security team known to many Northeast business owners as the “Avenue Angels.”

The verdict, delivered Wednesday, October 8, marks the first time in more than 30 years that Clay County prosecutors have sought — and obtained — the death penalty. Rocha, now 28, was convicted of first-degree murder for shooting Officer Vasquez during a July 19, 2022, traffic stop for expired tags near 21st and Clay Streets.

Dash cam footage shown in court captured the ambush, which prosecutors described as “an execution.” Rocha fled the scene but later turned himself in, admitting to the shooting and saying he acted because he didn’t want to go to jail or have his car towed.

The trial, which lasted several weeks, included testimony from more than 30 witnesses — among them investigators, Vasquez’s fellow officers, and loved ones who spoke about the lasting impact of his loss. Rocha’s defense presented mental health experts who cited his traumatic background and low intellectual ability, but jurors unanimously voted for the death penalty after deliberating for nearly 24 hours.

Before joining the North Kansas City Police Department, Officer Vasquez served for years on Independence Avenue as part of the “Avenue Angels,” a security team contracted through the Independence Avenue CID. Known for his professionalism and warm personality, Vasquez often patrolled the corridor’s shops, restaurants, and community spaces, helping ensure safety for residents and business owners alike.

“He was one of those guys who always went above and beyond,” one longtime CID partner recalled. “People on the Avenue knew him by name — he cared about this community.”

A first-generation Mexican American born in Kansas City, Kansas, Daniel Vasquez’s dream was always to serve in law enforcement. After working security and serving as a detention officer for the Kansas City Police Department, he graduated from the KCPD Regional Police Academy in 2021 as part of Class #171.

His dedication and compassion quickly earned him respect among his peers. After his death, the North Kansas City Police Department awarded him its highest honor — the Medal of Valor.

Those who knew Vasquez describe him as compassionate, dependable, and full of life — someone who could make anyone feel at ease. He enjoyed music, playing drums for his church, and spending time with his family, fiancée, and friends.

“Daniel was a protector by nature,” his family shared in his obituary. “He was always smiling, joking, and bringing joy to others. He will be missed beyond measure.”

Vasquez is survived by his parents, sisters, nephew, niece, and fiancée, along with countless colleagues in law enforcement and the Northeast community he once helped protect.

For many in Northeast Kansas City, the sentencing brings a measure of closure — but also a renewed reminder of Vasquez’s impact.

Officer Vasquez’s years of service as an Avenue Angel helped build trust and safety along Independence Avenue. Even after moving on to the North Kansas City Police Department, he remained a symbol of dedication and kindness — the kind of public servant whose loss continues to be deeply felt.

“Daniel was one of our own,” said Bobbi Baker-Hughes, president and CEO of the Independence Avenue CID. “He helped make this corridor safer through compassion and presence. His service left an imprint on our community that will never fade.”