KC man charged in death of his alleged burglary accomplice

Jackson County prosecutors have charged a 23-year-old man for his reported role in the death of a man who allegedly helped him try to break into a south Kansas City home.

Rodney V. Rodgers faces involuntary manslaughter in the Sept. 21 death of Terrance Gates. The men allegedly forced their way into a residence in the 600 block of West 87^th Street.

Rodgers also was charged with attempted robbery, burglary, resisting arrest, leaving the scene of an accident, driving with a suspended license, armed criminal action and unlawfully possessing a firearm.

According to court records, Rodgers and Gates forced their way into the residence. Both men reportedly were armed and pointed their weapons at the resident. They left without taking anything, got into a car and sped away. Minutes later, police saw the car speeding east on Bannister Road. The officers followed the car.

Rodgers, who allegedly was driving, later lost control of the car and crashed into a tree. Both men were ejected.

Rodgers ran into a nearby wooded area. Gates was found a few feet from the car and was arrested. Police recovered two handguns at the scene.

Gates was taken to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Prosecutors requested a $150,000 bond.

Court record showed that Rodgers pleaded guilty in May to tampering and stealing charges.

This story was originally published December 5, 2016 at 3:33 PM with the headline "KC man charged in death of his alleged burglary accomplice."