Shooting investigation

On Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 2:14 a.m., the Pittsburg Police Department dispatch center received a call about two victims who were shot and were being driven to the hospital by personal vehicle. While this call was received, another call came into dispatch about gunshots being heard in the area of west 20th Street. Officers from the Pittsburg Police Department responded to the area of west 20th Street as well as Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg.

Officers at the hospital located a 22-year-old-female and a 23-year-old-female who suffered gunshot wounds. Both victims began receiving treatment and were later flown to KU Medical Center in Kansas City for additional treatment. Both victims are currently listed as being in stable condition.

Officers were informed that the shooting incident occurred in the alley of the 300 block of west 20th Street. Officers located evidence related to the shooting in the alley and secured the crime scene. Three individuals who drove the victims to the hospital were transported to the police department to be interviewed. Detectives from the police department responded to assist with the investigation.

After interviewing the witnesses, officers were able to determine that an altercation took place between the two victims and one of the subjects from the vehicle. During the altercation, another occupant of the vehicle who was not involved in the altercation, shot the two female victims.

As a result, 23-year-old Walter Herrera Alvarez, of Pittsburg, was placed under arrest. The other individuals were released after being interviewed.

Mr. Alvarez was transported to the jail located at the Crawford County Sheriff’s office for booking. Mr. Alvarez was arrested for two counts of Aggravated Battery. Mr. Alvarez is currently being held without bond.

Mr. Alvarez is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing at this time. Anyone having information related to this incident, or other crimes, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at (620) 231-1700, or at our automated tip line, (620) 231-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.