A Missouri man, Arel Dawkins, is facing first-degree murder charges after he allegedly ran over his pregnant ex-girlfriend, 42-year-old Braisen Cain, before shooting her 21 times with a .40 caliber pistol. The tragic incident took place last Wednesday in the 4000 block of Morrell Avenue, Kansas City.
The Brutal Crime
According to the Kansas City Police Department, Dawkins first ran over Cain with his Ford F-150 before getting out of the vehicle and firing at least 21 rounds at close range.
Neighbors and witnesses reported seeing Dawkins shoot Cain multiple times while she was lying in a yard. One witness allegedly captured the attack on cell phone video, which was later used as evidence in the case.
In addition to the brutal shooting, Dawkins reportedly confessed to an old high school friend, saying that he had struck Cain with his vehicle before shooting her. Police also found that Dawkins had reloaded his weapon at one point after running out of ammunition during the attack.
The Victim’s Background and Motive
The murder occurred after Cain recently broke up with Dawkins. She was also pregnant with his child at the time of the incident. Police reports suggest that Dawkins’ jealousy or anger over the breakup could have played a significant role in his violent actions.
Confession and Arrest
Dawkins reportedly contacted his family after the killing and confessed to murdering Cain, even threatening to die by suicide. Authorities were able to track him down in Springfield, Missouri, using phone pings, and he was later identified in a photographic lineup.
Legal Proceedings
Dawkins is currently being held in Greene County Jail without bond as he awaits further legal proceedings. The case has shocked the community, particularly given the brutal nature of the crime and the involvement of a pregnant woman. Law enforcement continues to gather evidence, and the investigation is ongoing.
