A Kansas City Chiefs fan, who hosted a gathering that tragically resulted in the deaths of three friends at his rental property, remained “asleep on the couch” for two days while their loved ones desperately tried to reach him, according to his lawyer.
Jordan Willis, the host, had invited David Harrington, 37, Ricky Johnson, 38, and Clayton McGeeney, 36, to watch a football game at his house on Jan. 7. The three friends were discovered lifeless at Willis’ residence two days later, after one victim’s fiancée entered the home and found their bodies.
Willis’ lawyer, John Picerno, stated that his client was unaware of the events, claiming that the last memory Willis had was of his friends leaving through the front door. Kansas City investigators asserted that there was no foul play and ruled out a homicide investigation.
The attorney emphasized that Willis, an HIV vaccine development scientist, would have assisted his friends if he had known they were in distress. Picerno speculated about the possibility of drug involvement, pending a toxicology report.
Despite accusations on social media blaming Willis for the deaths, Picerno maintained Willis’ innocence, emphasizing the strong friendship between them. Willis had even purchased playoff game tickets for the friends.
Willis, a scientist working on HIV vaccine development, had moved out and deactivated his social media accounts after the incident, while friends of the victims accused him on social media. He could not be reached for comment.
Friends of the victims expressed disbelief and grief, with some asserting that justice is needed. Funerals for Johnson and McGeeney were scheduled, while a celebration of life was held for Harrington during a football game.
