LAWRENCE, KS — A night out turned tragic when 18‑year‑old Aidan Knowles of Shawnee was fatally shot outside the Hawk bar at 1340 Ohio Street early Saturday morning.
Police say the shooting happened around 2 a.m. on January 16, 2026. Knowles died at the scene from a gunshot wound. His 16‑year‑old friend, also injured in the attack, remains in critical condition as of Saturday afternoon.
🔎 Swift Police Response
Witnesses provided immediate statements, allowing officers to quickly identify and arrest two suspects nearby without incident:
Caiden Clem, 18, of Atchison — facing potential charges of first‑degree murder and aggravated assault.
Daitron Daniels, 18, of Shawnee — held on suspicion of first‑degree murder, attempted second‑degree murder, and aggravated assault.
💔 Family Devastation
Knowles’ father, Bobby Knowles, shared his grief online:
“He was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. We are completely devastated.”
His grandmother, Pamela Kirkpatrick, launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Honoring Aidan’s Life and Legacy” to cover funeral expenses. In her words:
“He was the light of our lives, and we will never ever recover from this senseless act.”
Within hours, the fundraiser began drawing support from friends, neighbors, and the wider Lawrence community.
🕯️ Community Reaction
The shooting has shaken residents, especially young people who frequent the downtown bar district. Calls for increased safety measures around nightlife venues have grown louder, with many urging city leaders to address gun violence more directly.
⚠️ Investigation Continues
The Lawrence Police Department confirmed the investigation is ongoing. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
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