Elderly man who pleaded guilty in shooting of Ralph Yarl dies before sentencing

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The octogenarian who pleaded guilty last week in the shooting of a Black teenager in 2023 died before he could be sentenced.

Andrew Lester, 86, of Kansas City, pleaded guilty on Friday to second-degree assault in the shooting of Ralph Yarl. Lester had shot Yarl after the teenager knocked on the door of Lester's home.

Lester was set to be sentenced at 10 a.m. Friday, March 7 at the Clay County Courthouse.

Lester's death was announced by Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson in a Wednesday statement.

“We have learned of the passing of Andrew Lester and extend our sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time,” the release says. “While the legal proceedings have now concluded, we acknowledge that Mr. Lester did take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty in this case. Our thoughts remain with both families affected by this tragic incident as they continue their healing process.”