EXCLUSIVE:
Suit Accuses Police of Negligence
Breaking News from KSHB 41, NBC Kansas City (no longer online): While innocent bystander Chris Cooper bled, Officer Anthony Smith’s dash cam captured police laughing and someone saying,
“They’re like roaches, man. They don’t die.”
Pujols’ Cousin Charged With Murder
November 10, 2007
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — The cousin of St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols was in custody Friday night facing murder charges.
Police took two men into custody Thursday night in connection with the death of Chris Cooper, 17. Police said they chased the pair after they rammed a car on 39th and Lee’s Summit Road and sped off.
Wilfredo J. Pujols Jr., the driver of the car, was charged with second degree felony murder, resisting arrest, leaving the scene of an accident and driving while intoxicated. Pujols blood alcohol level was 0.97.
The Cooper family was too distraught to talk so their attorney spoke on their behalf.
“They wanted everyone to know their son Chris lived a full life, was a champion of the underdog and loved all of his friends,” attorney Sean Pickett said.
Prosecutors have requested a $500,000 cash only bond on Pujols. The vehicle’s second occupant has not been charged.
Teen On Bike Killed During Police Chase
kmbctv
November 9, 2007
Friends remember Chris
Chris Cooper died Thursday night after being struck while riding his bicycle by a motorist fleeing police officers. Cooper did not die at the scene, as previously reported. He was transported to an area hospital where he later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Teen remembered for his smile, ability to make friends
A riderless skateboard, pictures and dozens of candles were at the center of a vigil Friday for the teen killed during an Independence Police Department chase.
“Everything is kind of overwhelming right now. And someone asked me, and all day, how do you feel? I don’t know,” Chris’ brother Ryan Steeley said illuminated by candles. My brother was killed, he was 17 years old,”
Friends remembered “Coop” as a skater with a smile and for his ability to forge fast friendships.
“Just seeing all the people throughout here just proves how much of a good person he is,” one student recalled fighting back tears. “That he has this many people coming to say goodbye.”