Police Officer James Muhlbauer

James Muhlbauer

Police Officer Jim Muhlbauer and K9 Champ were killed in a vehicle crash at 10:15 pm at the intersection of East Truman Road and Benton Boulevard in Kansas City.

A vehicle was traveling at 89 miles per hour, ran a red light, and crashed into Officer Mulbauer and K9 Champ while in their patrol vehicle. The impact caused the squad car to roll over. A pedestrian was also hit. K9 Champ and the pedestrian died at the scene. Officer Muhlbauer was taken to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The 18-year-old driver who hit the police car was also injured and was taken into police custody pending investigation. He was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. In 2024, he pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree involuntary manslaughter.

Officer Muhlbauer had served with the Kansas City Police Department for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and child.