An 86-year-old Missouri man, Andrew Lester, who shot a Black teenager after the boy mistakenly rang his doorbell, has passed away while awaiting sentencing, prosecutors announced on Wednesday.
Lester shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl in April 2023 when the teen accidentally went to the wrong house while trying to pick up his younger brothers. Lester fired through his screen door, hitting Yarl in the forehead and arm. The shooting left the teen with serious injuries and sparked national outrage. Many people protested, demanding justice for Yarl and raising concerns about racial bias and gun violence.
Lester recently pleaded guilty to two felony charges—first-degree assault and armed criminal action—as part of a plea deal. Prosecutors had planned to seek a five-year prison sentence. However, his death now means he will not serve time.
Yarl’s family responded to the news, saying that while Lester’s death brings mixed emotions, it does not bring justice. They had pushed for a quick trial to show that it is unacceptable to shoot an unarmed child simply for ringing the wrong doorbell. The family also noted that Lester never apologized and used legal tactics to delay the case for nearly two years.
The incident reignited discussions about “stand your ground” laws, which allow people in some states to use deadly force if they feel threatened. Lester had told police he was scared because of his age and because Yarl was a “tall Black man.” However, critics argued that his actions were influenced by racial prejudice.
Yarl’s case was one of several similar incidents that occurred around the same time. In New York, 20-year-old Kaylin Gillis was shot and killed after a driver mistakenly pulled into the wrong driveway. In Texas, two cheerleaders were shot and injured after accidentally trying to enter the wrong car. Another teenager, Brennan Walker, was shot at while asking for directions to school but was not hurt.
While Lester admitted guilt at the last moment, Yarl’s family expressed frustration that he avoided full accountability due to his death.
The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office acknowledged Lester’s passing and extended condolences to his family. They also emphasized that he did take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty. However, for Yarl’s family, the legal delays and lack of a formal sentencing left them feeling that justice was not fully served.
Now, as both families move forward, Yarl continues to heal from his injuries, and the case remains a reminder of the dangers of gun violence and racial bias in America.
