Wichita, KS – February 13, 2025 – In a shocking act of violence that has shaken the quiet southeast Wichita community, an 18-year-old male has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder following the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Manuel Roach, a well-known local resident. The incident, which unfolded in the 1200 block of South Bleckley Drive, southeast of Lincoln and Oliver, has left neighbors in fear and authorities scrambling for answers as three additional suspects remain at large.

Deadly Confrontation in a Residential Neighborhood

According to the Wichita Police Department (WPD), officers were dispatched to the scene shortly after 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered Roach suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the pavement outside a modest single-story home. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries a short time later, sending shockwaves through the community.

Eyewitness Accounts and Surveillance Footage

Preliminary investigations suggest that Roach had been engaged in an intense altercation with three unidentified men before the situation escalated into gunfire. Witnesses described seeing the suspects exit a white SUV wearing black clothing and face coverings. One bystander, who wished to remain anonymous, recalled, “It all happened so fast. They pulled up, got out, and within seconds, shots were fired. It was like something out of a movie.”

Security camera footage from a nearby residence captured grainy yet telling images of the suspects approaching Roach before rapidly discharging multiple rounds and fleeing the scene. Authorities believe the killing was targeted, but the exact motive remains under investigation.

The Arrest of the 18-Year-Old Suspect

Later that evening, an 18-year-old male, whose identity has not been released by law enforcement, arrived at a local hospital seeking treatment for a gunshot wound to his leg. Hospital staff, recognizing the potential link to the shooting, promptly alerted WPD. Detectives responding to the hospital determined that the young man had been directly involved in the deadly confrontation, leading to his immediate arrest and booking into the Sedgwick County Jail on charges of first-degree murder.

Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect was injured by return fire from Roach, an associate, or accidentally by one of his own accomplices.

Manhunt Underway for Three Additional Suspects

As WPD continues its relentless search for the remaining suspects, investigators have intensified efforts to locate the white SUV used in the getaway. Police Chief Joseph Sullivan addressed the public in a press conference Wednesday morning, stating, “We are fully committed to bringing everyone involved in this crime to justice. We urge the individuals who were present at the scene to turn themselves in before we find them.”

Authorities are utilizing various investigative resources, including forensic analysis, digital surveillance, and eyewitness testimony, to identify and apprehend the outstanding suspects. They encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Community Outrage and Calls for Justice

The brutal killing of Manuel Roach has sparked widespread concern among Wichita residents, particularly in the southeast district where the shooting occurred. Roach, described by friends as “kind-hearted and full of life,” was known to be an aspiring entrepreneur with dreams of opening his own auto repair shop. His untimely death has left family and friends reeling.

“Manuel didn’t deserve this,” said Jasmine Ortiz, a childhood friend of the victim. “He was working hard to build something for himself and his family. He wasn’t involved in any gang activity, and I hope the people who did this pay for what they did.”

Law Enforcement Urges Public Cooperation

Wichita law enforcement officials have emphasized the importance of public cooperation in solving the case. Crime Stoppers of Wichita-Sedgwick County has offered a reward for any credible tips leading to the arrest of the remaining suspects.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department at 911 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. If convicted, the arrested suspect could face a life sentence. The district attorney’s office has not yet determined if additional charges will be filed against the three suspects still at large, but they are expected to face similar charges once apprehended.

This developing story has cast a spotlight on growing concerns about violent crime in Wichita, prompting city officials to revisit public safety initiatives aimed at curbing gun violence.

As the investigation unfolds, the Wichita community mourns the tragic loss of Manuel Roach while anxiously awaiting justice for his senseless murder.