HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 19-year-old man suspected of being the shooter in the killing of a Hutchinson man entered a plea to a lesser charge Wednesday afternoon.

Leo Wells was charged with intentional murder in the second degree after he shot and killed 24-year-old Kenneth Thompson. But, in court, he waived his right to a preliminary hearing and entered a “guilty” plea to voluntary manslaughter.

On June 24, Hutchinson Police Officers were dispatched to the 100 block of South Elm in reference to a shooting and located the victim, 24-year-old Kenneth Thompson, lying in the street with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where he died from his injuries.

District Attorney Keith Schroeder during the hearing talked of the gathering or party where the two men apparently got into an argument and Wells decided to leave. Thompson apparently followed him taunting him with what some called playful banter. One Wells got his vehicle, he pulled a gun and shot Thompson. While on the ground, Wells fire more rounds at the victim. Although not mentioned in court, Schroeder told us after the hearing that the victim suffered four wounds including in one leg, his wrist and two in the chest.

With Wells entering the plea, he’ll be sentenced on Feb. 9 by District Judge Trish Rose, and both sides will be able to argue disposition. The defense already indicated that they will seek a departure while the state will argue for prison.

The Voluntary Manslaughter conviction carries a maximum sentence 20-years and seven months (247-months) in prison.

Wells remains jailed on a $350,000 bond pending sentencing.