Blue city mayor who opposed defund police movement calls for more officers after popular chef's murder.

After the deadly shooting of a popular chef, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who previously supported defunding police efforts, is now pushing to "increase patrols in areas reeling from ongoing criminal behavior."

On August 28, at approximately 5 p.m, a 44-year-old Irish immigrant named Shaun Brady was fatally shot outside the restaurant he owned, according to police.

"According to Kansas City Police, a preliminary investigation showed that the victim was taking out trash when he noticed several subjects near a vehicle. An interaction between the victim and the subjects resulted in the victim being shot."

Brady was taken to a hospital and died after officers responded.

Lucas expressed his heartbreak upon learning of Shaun Brady's death, stating that he had met him, shared laughter, and been inspired by his business and community building efforts in Kansas City. He offered his sincerest condolences to Brady's family and all those who knew him.

He added, "The knowledge of how he died, which was due to violence reoccurring in our community, brought more distress."

In February, gun violence during the Super Bowl parade in Kansas City resulted in one death and over 20 injuries, making national headlines. In 2023, Kansas City experienced its deadliest year on record with 182 homicides, according to the Kansas City Police Department's daily homicide analysis.

In 2022, Lucas sued the state of Missouri over a new law that mandated the city to increase funding for its police department. Now, Lucas is advocating for an increase in police presence.

Business owners in Brookside and Waldo, as well as those in the Crossroads and other parts of the city, have expressed growing concerns about property and nuisance crimes affecting their stores, parking lots, and customers.

"We must continue to collaborate with KCPD and the public to optimally allocate officers to intensify patrols in areas experiencing persistent criminal activity, including burglaries, car thefts, and other recurring disturbances."

Two teenagers were arrested and charged with second-degree murder and attempted stealing within an hour of Brady's shooting, police said. They remain in detention at the Jackson County Courthouse.

Brady & Fox Restaurant & Lounge, also known as Brady's KC, was co-owned and operated by Brady and chef and friend Graham Farris.

According to a fundraising page for his family, he leaves behind a wife and two young children.

"Shaun Brady, as a chef, not only provided his community with delicious food but also instilled a sense of pride in his culture and a passion for celebration," the GoFundMe page organizers wrote. "His impact on the Irish community will continue to inspire those who were touched by his talent, spirit, and zest for life."

Brady was beloved by the Kansas City Irish community.

"The Kansas City Irish Festival wrote on Facebook, "Our hearts are shattered as we mourn the loss of Shaun's restaurant, Brady and Fox. It was a beloved gathering place for many in the Irish community, and his culinary creations brought people together.""

The mayor's office in Kansas City did not respond to Planet Chronicle Digital's inquiry for comment.