Andrew Lester, Pleaded Guilty in Ralph Yarl Shooting, Dies Days Later

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Andrew Lester, 86, the man who pleaded guilty to shooting Black teenager Ralph Yarl, has died just days after entering a plea agreement. Prosecutors in Clay County announced his death on Wednesday, but did not disclose how or when he passed away. Lester was set to be sentenced on March 7, 2025, following his guilty plea to second-degree assault, a charge stemming from the shooting incident on April 13, 2023.

According to prosecutors, Lester’s guilty plea was a step toward accountability for his actions. “While the legal proceedings have now concluded, we acknowledge that Mr. Lester did take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty in this case,” Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said in a statement. “Our thoughts remain with both families affected by this tragic incident as they continue their healing process.” On Friday prior to his death, Lester faced a possible seven years in prison under the terms of his plea agreement.

Ralph Yarl, now 18, was shot by Lester after mistakenly ringing his doorbell, believing it was the residence where he was to pick up his siblings. Yarl was struck in the head and arm. He survived the encounter, which received national attention and reignited discussions on race and gun violence in America.

“The news of Andrew Lester’s passing brings a mix of emotions, but it does not bring justice,” Yarl’s family stated after learning of his death. “While Lester finally admitted guilt, it came at the very last moment—after two years of stalling. That delay leaves our family reeling.” Yarl’s family had expressed frustration with the legal process, stating it did not adequately address the racial implications of the shooting.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Yarl, then 16, approached Lester’s home mistakenly. Upon opening his door, Lester shot Yarl, claiming he believed his home was being broken into. Authorities stated that after the shooting, Lester called the police and reported he was frightened.

Yarl, who is currently studying at Texas A&M University, has described the emotional toll the incident took on him. Family members have indicated his recovery is ongoing, highlighting the complexities of dealing with trauma while navigating his transition to college life.

As the case garnered national attention, Yarl’s family remained vocal about their desire for justice, sharing their concerns over systemic issues in the judicial process. “This case has never been just about Ralph; it is about every child’s right to exist without being seen as a threat,” the family stated, echoing their commitment to advocating for changes that prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Lester’s passing, coming shortly after entering a plea, robs Yarl of a court resolution to his painful experience but will not deter his family’s efforts to seek justice in the larger context of racial inequality and gun violence in the United States.