Teen survives college bar shooting that killed his best friend; family asks for prayers

LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV/Gray News) - Two suspects are facing first-degree murder charges after a shooting outside a popular college bar in Kansas left an 18-year-old dead and his best friend seriously injured.

The families of the victims identified them as 18-year-old Aidan Knowles and 16-year-old Brady Clark. Lawrence Police say the friends were found shot around 2 a.m. Saturday on the patio of the Jayhawk Cafe, or “The Hawk.” Aidan Knowles died at the scene, while Brady Clark was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Police say the victims were inside the bar at some point before the shooting, which happened right before closing time.

Brady Clark’s parents, Kristin and Chris Clark, called the friends “innocent bystanders caught in the middle of a senseless act of violence” and thanked the community for their support during this difficult time.

“Our son suffered critical injuries, and thanks to the tireless efforts of first responders and medical staff, he survived. Tragically, his best friend did not, and our hearts are with his family as they grieve this unimaginable loss,” said the family in part.

They asked for privacy as they continue to support their son through his recovery.

Aidan Knowles’ father, Bobby Knowles, posted on Facebook Sunday, saying the victims were “simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.” He and his wife extended their thanks to the first responders who handled the tragedy with “professionalism, compassion, and dedication.”

Two suspects, 18-year-old Caiden Clem and 18-year-old Daitron Daniels, were arrested shortly after the shooting and booked in the Douglas County Jail.

Clem faces two charges: first-degree murder and aggravated assault (deadly use of a weapon). Daniels faces three charges: first-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder and aggravated assault (deadly use of a weapon).

Police say they have responded to at least 59 calls at the bar in the past year, including calls for fights, battery and proactive bar checks. The bar conducted 14 proactive bar checks in the past year to enforce liquor license compliance and prevent underage drinking, police say.

The Hawk released the following statement Monday evening:

“We are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic incident that occurred outside our establishment last night. Our thoughts are with the individuals who were harmed, their families and loved ones, and all those affected.

We are fully cooperating with law enforcement in their ongoing investigation. The safety of our guests and staff remains our top priority, and we appreciate the quick response from first responders.

We thank our community for its support."