North Kansas City, MO – A 29-year-old Missouri man has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly walking into a CVS pharmacy where his former lover worked and shooting another employee eight times, telling police afterward that he “could have killed more people but decided not to,” according to authorities.
The Incident: Fatal Shooting Inside CVS Pharmacy
The shooting occurred on Thursday afternoon, around 3 p.m., at a CVS store in North Kansas City. Police say the suspect, Antonio Serrano, entered the store armed with a handgun and opened fire on 42-year-old CVS employee Rusty Donovan, who was reportedly living with Serrano’s former lover.
According to surveillance footage and police reports, Serrano first approached a female employee behind the counter and pointed the gun at her before turning his attention to Donovan, who was standing nearby.
“He fired nearly a dozen shots,” investigators said, adding that eight bullets struck Donovan, killing him instantly. Serrano allegedly continued shooting even after Donovan fell to the ground.
Authorities confirmed that the woman Serrano had previously dated worked at the store but was not present during the shooting.
Investigation and Arrest: “I Could Have Hurt More People”
After the attack, Serrano reportedly told another worker to call 911 and said he wanted to turn himself in. When officers arrived, Serrano surrendered without resistance.
Police body camera footage and witness accounts revealed that Serrano made a series of chilling statements after his arrest.
“He told officers he could have shot the cops if he wanted to,” according to the police report.
“He said he could have hurt more people but decided not to.”
Serrano allegedly expressed remorse, stating he was “sorry for the shooting” and that he “probably deserves life in prison.” He also claimed he did not fully understand why he committed the act.
Authorities noted that Serrano had been at the same CVS a week before the shooting, where he confronted another employee, prompting staff to call the police. It remains unclear whether that confrontation involved his former lover.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Clay County prosecutors charged Serrano with first-degree murder and armed criminal action.
Clay County Prosecutor Zach Thompson praised law enforcement for their rapid response and detailed investigation.
“I commend the North Kansas City Police Department for a rapid and ongoing investigation that allowed us to file charges on this horrific crime,” Thompson said. “Our prayers are for all those affected by this shocking and brutal act of violence.”
Serrano is currently being held without bond at the Clay County Detention Center. Prosecutors confirmed he has a criminal history, including a 2019 conviction for resisting arrest.
If convicted, Serrano faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Reactions from CVS and the Community
In a statement following the incident, CVS Health described the shooting as a “senseless act of violence” and confirmed that counseling and support services were being provided to employees at the store.
“Counseling and support services are being offered to all store colleagues to help them cope with this senseless tragedy,” the company said in a press release.
The North Kansas City community has expressed grief and shock over the killing, with residents leaving flowers outside the store to honor Donovan’s memory.
Customers described Donovan as a kind and helpful worker, saying he was always willing to assist customers and make them feel welcome.
Background and Context
Police records show that Serrano has been arrested multiple times over the past few years, with previous charges related to resisting arrest and other minor offenses. Investigators are still trying to determine whether the attack was premeditated or driven by jealousy and emotional instability.
Legal experts say Serrano’s own admissions to police could be key evidence during trial proceedings, as they indicate both intent and awareness of his actions.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, focusing on Serrano’s mental state and potential motive for the shooting. Detectives are also reviewing surveillance footage and prior police calls related to his earlier visit to the CVS.
A preliminary hearing is expected in the coming weeks, where prosecutors will present additional evidence to determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of CVS employee Rusty Donovan has left North Kansas City shaken and mourning a life lost to senseless violence. As prosecutors seek justice, the case stands as another grim reminder of how domestic conflicts can escalate into public tragedies.
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