Sergeant Richard James Asten, Kansas City Police Department, Kansas

Sergeant Richard James Asten

Kansas City Police Department, Kansas

End of Watch Thursday, June 11, 1998

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Richard James Asten

Sergeant Richard Asten was killed after being intentionally struck by a stolen vehicle on 98th Street near the entrance to the Wyandotte County Fairgrounds.

He was attempting to deploy stop sticks in the street when the driver of a Chevrolet Blazer intentionally turned and struck him, throwing him 250 feet down the street. The driver then crashed while attempting to make a turn after striking Sergeant Asten. He was arrested at the scene.

The 26-year-old man, wanted for burglary, was convicted of Sergeant Asten's murder and was sentenced to 38 years in prison without the possibility of parole. His release date is September 16, 2033, but could be extended due to his terrible disciplinary record.

Sergeant Asten had served with the Kansas City Police Department for 14 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, two stepsons, and a stepdaughter.

Bio

Age 46
Tour 14 years
Badge 1508

Incident Details

Cause Vehicular assault
Weapon Automobile
Offender Sentenced to 38 years

spike strips, stolen vehicle

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I'm currently working on some genealogy research and you popped into my head, Sgt. Asten. Not only were you a "nice cop", but you were a great and much loved stepfather to one of my best friends. When I worked at Goodwill on State Ave & 63rd St. in the 1990s, Sgt Asten would check on us regularly when he was working in the evenings (esp. during 'holiday hours').
I wonder what you would think about this world today...

Civilian Donna Williams
Grateful Citizen / friend of relative

January 30, 2025