Five teen boys arrested after shooting at Kansas apartment complex

Five teenage boys in Newton were arrested after a shooting at an apartment complex, city spokesperson Erin McDaniel said Thursday.

One was taken to a Wichita hospital after being shot in the arm and leg. He was later arrested, she said in a news release. All are believed to be 17.

No other injuries were reported.

“The investigation has led police to conclude this was a gun and drug trade deal gone wrong,” McDaniel said. “One side brandished a gun, and shots were exchanged between the two groups. This conclusion is based on interviews of all those involved, as well as independent witnesses.”

The boys face various charges depending on their involvement, she said, including attempted murder, aggravated robbery, illegal possession of a gun, having a stolen gun and drug possession.

Police were called at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday to the shooting at an apartment complex in the 1200 block of East Broadway, she said.

The injured teen went to his home near 10th and Oak before a family member called 911, she said, and one “fleeing suspect” hit a parked car near Second and High.

“We haven’t yet confirmed the motive or relationships,” she said.

This story was originally published July 31, 2025 at 11:32 AM.