LAWRENCE, KS – Two 18-year-old men are facing murder charges after a shooting outside a popular University of Kansas bar left one person dead and a teenager critically wounded earlier this month.
Aiden Sullivan Knowles, 18, was pronounced dead at the scene outside the Jayhawk Cafe, known locally as “The Hawk,” after the January 17 shooting. Brady Clark, 16, was critically injured and transported to a hospital.
Caiden Clem, 18, has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Daitron Daniels-Strickland, 18, faces charges of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder.
According to investigators, the incident began when a group of patrons tried to re-enter the bar after visiting another venue and were denied access. A separate confrontation then erupted involving bar staff and another group, including the two suspects, over a confiscated cell phone.
After the phone was returned, Clem allegedly fired multiple shots into the air. Daniels-Strickland then discharged a semi-automatic handgun toward the entrance of the bar, striking both Knowles and Clark, according to the criminal complaint. Police arrived at approximately 2 a.m. and found Knowles deceased.
Surveillance footage from the bar contradicted statements made by both suspects during interviews with police. Clem told investigators he was in the area but claimed he didn’t hear any gunshots, had no weapon, and wasn’t involved. Daniels-Strickland said he fired toward a wall in self-defense after hearing gunshots, denying he aimed at anyone.
Two handguns were recovered several blocks from the bar. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 10. Daniels-Strickland’s attorney has requested an immunity hearing based on a self-defense claim, though prosecutors have expressed skepticism.
Both suspects remain in custody.
