Apr 22, 2025

Suspect wanted for killing outside Kansas motel

Posted Apr 22, 2025 4:55 PM
Steele photo Wichita Police
Steele photo Wichita Police

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a homicide are asking the public for help to locate 34-year-old Craig C. Steele in connection with the Homicide Investigation of Eric Lopez-Morales, which occurred on April 17th in the 1600 block of S. Broadway.

Craig C. Steele is sought for questioning regarding this case and may have pertinent information.  If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact 911 immediately.

Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH
Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH

On Thursday evening, police were in the area of Harry and Broadway on an unrelated call when they heard gunshots nearby, according to police spokesman Andrew Ford. Officers immediately responded to the area and located a man with a gunshot wound who was in front of the Frontier Motel at 1623 S. Broadway.

 The victim was later identified as Lopez-Morales from Wichita.

Despite the life-saving efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:04 p.m.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Lopez-Morales was involved in a physical altercation with unknown males in the parking lot of the motel before the shooting. 

To speak with Wichita Police Investigators directly, please call 316-268-4407.

Crime Stoppers can be reached at 316-267-2111 for those wishing to remain anonymous.