Crime & Courts

Wichita police identify two people who were shot and killed at an east-side motel

Police arrested a 20-year-old person in connection with a shooting at the Blue Way Inn & Suites in the 7300 block of East Kellogg that left two people dead.
Police arrested a 20-year-old person in connection with a shooting at the Blue Way Inn & Suites in the 7300 block of East Kellogg that left two people dead. Google Maps

Police identified the man and woman who were fatally shot Saturday at an east Wichita motel.

Police responded shortly before 9:30 a.m. to a shooting call at the Blue Way Inn & Suites right off Kellogg. They found Christopher Harrell and Natisha Phillips, both 35 years old and from Wichita, with gunshot wounds, police spokesperson Kristopher Gupilan said in a news release.

Phillips died at the motel. Harrell was taken to a local hospital by Sedgwick County EMS where he died from his injuries. A 2-year-old boy was found unharmed at the scene of the shooting, Gupilan added.

A 20-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of capital murder, child endangerment and felon in possession of a firearm, according to the news release.

The motive behind the shooting and the relationship among all those involved is unknown.

Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to call WPD detectives at 316-268-4407 or submit and anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

This is the city’s 12th homicide so far this year, according to reports from police. There were seven at this time last year.

This story was originally published February 25, 2024 at 11:40 AM.

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Eduardo Castillo
The Wichita Eagle
Eduardo covers crime and breaking news for The Wichita Eagle. His previous work experience includes stints at KWCH 12 Eyewitness News, the local CBS affiliate in Wichita, and as a marketing manager for a local real estate team. In addition to writing, Eduardo also enjoys still photography and cinematography. News tips? email at Edcastillo@wichitaeagle.com or call 316-268-6213.
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