On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, Kansas City Police Officer James Muhlbauer and his K-9 died in a crash that also killed a pedestrian.

Officer Muhlbauer was on patrol near Truman Road and Benton Boulevard around 10:15 p.m., when his patrol car was struck by another vehicle. The crash caused a secondary collision with a pedestrian, who was declared dead at the scene.

Officer Muhlbauer was critically injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment where he died of his injuries.

Officer Muhlbauer was a 20 year veteran of the Kansas City Police Department and served nearly three years in the Canine Unit. He is survived by his wife, two sons and daughter.

The driver of the vehicle that struck the patrol car suffered minor injuries, was taken into custody and was subsequently charged with two counts of first-degree involuntary manslaughter.

Visitation and Funeral services were held Feb 22, 2023 at Kansas City's Municipal Auditorium. Following the service, full honors were held in front of the auditorium followed by an emergency vehicle honor escort. Officer Muhlbauer leaves behind his wife, two sons and a daughter.