Kansas City Mourns Loss of Larry D. Banks, 69, After Family Dollar Roof Collapse

Kansas City Mourns Loss of Larry D. Banks, 69, After Family Dollar Roof Collapse

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (August 4, 2025) — The Kansas City community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Larry D. Banks, 69, who tragically lost his life when the roof of a Family Dollar store collapsed Saturday afternoon near West 37th Street and Broadway Boulevard. Authorities confirmed Mr. Banks’ identity Sunday following an intense search-and-rescue operation at the site of the structural failure.

According to the Kansas City Fire Department, emergency responders were called to the Family Dollar location just before 3:00 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a loud crash, followed by visible signs of a partial building collapse. When first responders arrived, they found a chaotic and dangerous scene — the roof of the store had caved in suddenly, trapping at least one person under the debris.

Crews immediately began search efforts using thermal imaging, rescue dogs, and heavy machinery to locate the victim. After several hours, Mr. Banks was found beneath the wreckage. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials said that Larry D. Banks was a customer at the time of the collapse. Surveillance footage showed he had been in the store for only a few minutes before the structure gave way. No other serious injuries were reported, though several employees and shoppers were evaluated for minor cuts, bruises, and emotional distress.

A Life Cut Short in a Place of Routine

Larry D. Banks was a longtime resident of Kansas City and a familiar face in the Midtown area. Known for his quiet demeanor, sharp wit, and unwavering kindness, Mr. Banks was a retired postal worker who remained active in his community. Friends say he visited the Family Dollar store often — picking up household supplies, chatting with staff, and always offering a warm smile.

“He was just one of those people you always saw around and felt better for having spoken to,” said neighbor Teresa Hall. “He didn’t deserve this. None of us can believe it.”

A proud father and grandfather, Mr. Banks is remembered by family as a devoted family man, loyal friend, and hardworking citizen. His daughter, Monique Banks, shared a heartbreaking tribute:

“He was the backbone of our family. He raised us with strength, love, and honesty. He survived so much in his life — and to lose him like this, doing something as simple as shopping… it’s unbearable.”

Investigation Underway

City inspectors and structural engineers are now conducting a full investigation into what caused the roof to collapse. Officials with the Kansas City Department of Buildings and Inspections said that initial assessments point to structural failure, possibly due to neglected maintenance or long-term damage to the building’s support systems.

Family Dollar and its parent company, Dollar Tree Inc., issued a brief statement offering condolences to the Banks family and promising full cooperation with the investigation:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life resulting from the roof collapse at our Kansas City location. Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones, and we are working closely with authorities to determine the cause of this incident.”

The store has been closed indefinitely, and building officials have cordoned off the area as crews assess the full extent of the damage and whether nearby structures are at risk.

Community Support and Outcry

Larry D. Banks’ tragic death has sparked not only grief but outrage across Kansas City, with residents demanding accountability and a thorough review of safety compliance in aging commercial buildings. Activists and local leaders are calling for increased oversight of older retail properties, particularly those in underserved communities.

“We’ve seen this story before — neglected maintenance, ignored warnings, and someone’s father, grandfather, or friend ends up paying the ultimate price,” said Councilwoman Regina Foster. “We need to do better — for Larry and for everyone who shops or works in these buildings.”

A community vigil in Mr. Banks’ honor is scheduled for Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m. in Hyde Park, not far from the collapsed store. Organizers say the event will serve both as a moment of reflection and a call to action to improve public safety standards.

Honoring His Memory

Larry D. Banks is survived by:

• His daughter, Monique Banks

• Two sons, Darren and Marcus Banks

• Five grandchildren

• His sister, Pamela Banks of Kansas City

• And many friends, neighbors, and former coworkers who will miss him dearly

Funeral services are currently being arranged by the family, with details to be released later this week. A GoFundMe page has been launched to support funeral expenses and help the Banks family during this difficult time.

As Kansas City mourns a life lost far too soon, the community holds onto the memory of a kind man who gave much and asked for little — a man who went to the store on an ordinary day, never expecting it would be his last.

May Larry D. Banks rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire change.