Slain utility worker's employer stops work at Kansas City construction site

InfraSource has stopped work at its construction site on Brooklyn Avenue in Kansas City where one of its workers was fatally shot on Tuesday.

The company, which also is offering counseling to its Kansas City staff, said it had not determined when work at the site would resume.

Johnathon L. Porter, 23, of Appleton City, was installing pipe when he and other workers were approached by a passerby who asked him for a cigarette.

Porter, who doesn't smoke, told the man he couldn't help him. As he walked away, the man turned and fired several shots in the direction of Porter, striking him.

Porter, who was expecting his first child in late May, was rushed to a hospital, where he later died. A preliminary investigation indicated the shooting was random.

The company also has established a website with the United Way of Greater Kansas City where donations can be made to assist Porter’s family.

Police have made no arrests and continued their investigation Wednesday. Investigators released a photo of a person of interest in the shooting.

Anyone with information should call the Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477).

InfraSource said they were cooperating with investigators and the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers.

A spokeswoman said that as the investigation continues, the company would have no further comment.

This story was originally published April 25, 2018 at 4:11 PM with the headline "Slain utility worker's employer stops work at Kansas City construction site."