First Fridays Changed Forever?

Alise David
By Alise David
The Kansas City tradition of First Fridays, may have changed forever after the recent killing of 25-year-old Erin Langhofer.
First Fridays, a well-known Kansas City tradition, has been around for decades. Thousands of Kansas City residents and visitors flood the streets of the crossroads district, downtown, and Country Club Plaza for an evening of music, galleries, food and festivities. The tradition of First Fridays has grown tremendously to around 10,000 attendees every month. Most spend their time dining at a variety of restaurants and bars downtown. The streets are lined with galleries, studios, and art exhibits from local artists as well as food trucks and entertainment venues. This event has become a perfect way for anyone to explore the sights of Kansas City’s unique neighborhoods and downtown areas. However, This extravagant Kansas City tradition may have changed forever after 25-year-old Erin Langhofer was shot and killed as an innocent bystander at First Fridays on August 2nd.

Mass shootings in the United States have risen tremendously as a result of insufficient background checks, easy access to assault weapons and ammunition, as well as hatred and violence encouraged by our nation’s leaders; especially a rise in white supremacist terrorism according to the Washington Times. According to the CDC, around 40,000 people died in 2017 due to gun-related deaths. Three fourths of all murders in the United States involve a firearm, whether intentional or not. Despite hearing about these horrific shootings on national news, many Kansas City folks would not have expected a shooting to occur at such a safe and popular event.

On the evening of August 2nd, sources state that 18-year-old Deon’te Copkney found himself in an altercation with another First Friday attendee and fired a shot, killing Erin Langhofer who was standing nearby. On the night of the shooting, Copkney was quickly arrested by several off-duty police officers nearby and was charged with second-degree murder. The high school student told police that he never intended to hurt anyone, simply settle the conflict.

Now, various changes have been made to insure that this beloved Kansas City gathering can remain a safe space. The food trucks, street vendors, and art exhibits have been relocated to 18th and Cherry Street by the Crossroads Community Association. One Crossroads restaurant owner, Jeff Rumaner plans to donate a percentage of his sales to honor Langhofer’s violent death. He also offered to have fifteen street vendors set up shop behind his restaurant as a safer location. 

In addition, on Friday September 6th, a large group of Kansas City enthusiasts proved that they will not succumb to the fear associated with the rise in gun violence. They showed up to walk from 19th and Campbell Street to the spot where Langhofer was shot. These supporters wore bright orange T-shirts and carried signs with messages of love, hope, and healing. Langhofer’s father is a pastor at Church of the Resurrection. Langhofer’s family, as well as her church community still mourn her death but have planned an event for the families of homicide victims in Kansas City. Senior pastor, Adam Hamilton, claims it is crucial to fill their hearts with light and love during these tragic times. The church hopes to foster a community of bringing Kansas City together to lift one another up and prevent these acts of gun violence. 

Although Kansas City is yet to experience a shooting on an extreme scale, the death of Erin Langhofer remains in our hearts. Many have questioned the future safety of our city. Have First Fridays changed forever? 
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