Federal civil rights investigation requested in shootings at Jewish Community Center parking lot

Human rights activist Alvin Sykes is calling for a federal criminal civil rights investigation into the shooting deaths of three persons Sunday afternoon near the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, Kan.

Two persons were killed near the Jewish Community Center and one near Village Shalom center in Overland Park, Kan., this afternoon.

Early news coverage stated that some witnesses said a suspect yelled “Heil Hitler” after being arrested.

Sykes has asked the U.S. attorney general’s office for a federal civil rights investigation.

The Jewish Community Center of Overland Park posted this message on its Facebook page this afternoon:

“Our hearts go out to the families who have suffered loss on this tragic day. Our heartfelt gratitude as well to all those in Kansas City and around the world who have expressed sympathy, concern and support.

“No shooting occurred inside the Jewish Community Center buildings; the shooting occurred in the parking lot of the Jewish Community Campus. Everyone participating in JCC programming has been…released to their homes.

“In the meantime, the Jewish Community Center will be closed tomorrow. Again, our hearts go out to all those affected and touched by this terrible tragedy.”