Overview
- Midtown Grocers LLC and Community Builders of Kansas City filed a lawsuit in Jackson County Circuit Court alleging the city’s failures at the Linwood Shopping Center forced the Sun Fresh to shut down.
- The suit claims Kansas City breached lease duties to maintain the property in a first-class manner, including providing adequate security and controlling common areas.
- Plaintiffs describe escalating problems such as shoplifting, violence, drugs, prostitution and weapons threats after mid-2022, saying they repeatedly alerted city officials and police.
- The store initially turned a profit of more than $300,000 in 2022 but closed on Aug. 12, 2025; the plaintiffs seek damages exceeding $5 million after years of public investment reported at well over $20 million, with the city citing nearly $29 million.
- City leaders say attorneys will vigorously defend the case as United Market KC LLC prepares to take over the site, with private security now patrolling and crews installing phone and internet service for an April reopening target.