Family and friends of Kasandra Perkins speak about loving mother, tragic loss

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Family and friends of Kasandra Perkins continue to mourn her loss, after her boyfriend, Chiefs linebacker Jovan Belcher, shot her to death in the home they shared with their 3-month-old daughter.

Perkins was originally from Dallas.

She lived in the Kansas City area for several years, and was attending Blue River Community College in Independence. Friends said she was studying to be a teacher.

Friends describe Perkins as a mother who loved life, and was happy to spend time with her daughter, who was born in September.

Chelsea Surles grew up with Perkins, and recalls just seeing her a few months ago at her baby shower. At that time, Surles met Belcher for the first time, and said the two seemed very happy.

“She was really excited and loved that baby, and was a beautiful person inside and out,” Surles said.

Surles said she never suspected Belcher would take the life on one of her closest childhood friends.

“This is something you'd never expect.”

Now, Surles said all she has left are photos and memories of Perkins.

“She was always happy when I was around her, and was goofy and loving, and everything that's good about a person, she was.”

Perkins’ aunt, Debbie Sutherby, is one of very few family members, who has publicly spoken about the tragedy.

“Our family has suffered a tragic loss. My heart goes out to my family, as well as his family,” Sutherby said.