Independence's police chief speaks out after mother and child were killed

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (KCTV) – After a shooting involving an officer, a mother and a child rocked a Kansas City metro community, Independence Police Chief Adam Dustman has begun speaking out.

“As a father, my thoughts are with every family member affected by violence in our community,” Chief Dustman said. “As Chief, my heart is heavy with the burden our men and women carry Independence Police wear every day to keep our citizens safe.”

The Independence Police Department was called to the Oval Springs Apartments, located a few blocks south of E. 23rd and Mo-291 Highway, on Thursday, November 7 around 1:45 p.m. During the incident, a law enforcement officer fired a gun.

As a result, a two-month-old baby Destinii Hope and her mother, 34-year-old Maria Pike, died. Family members said law enforcement officers responded to a domestic disturbance when the child’s mother began becoming violent.

Family members also told KCTV5 that officers knew a baby was present and that the mother was holding her at the time. However, shots were fired in the absence of negotiations.

“Our officers are also members of our community, and we all want Independence to be a safe place for everyone; this is a goal we are working toward every day, in ways the public may or may not see,” Chief Dustman continued.

While the department has heard many questions in light of the Oval Springs incident, Dustman asked for the community’s understanding as law enforcement officials are barred by law from releasing information critical to the investigation.

“IPD must follow proper protocol surrounding the ongoing investigations for the safety and fairness of all involved,” Chief Dustman concluded. “Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”

The officer who fired the fatal shot is on administrative leave, as are two other officers who responded to the call.