A 13-year-old has been charged after a March 31 shooting in Ferguson, Missouri, that killed a 13-year-old boy and left a 15-year-old hospitalized. The shooting occurred in the parking lot of STEAM Academy at McCluer South Berkeley High School just after a track meet ended. The juvenile suspect was arrested nearby and faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder; investigators say the motive remains unknown.
13-Year-Old Charged in Deadly Shooting After Missouri High School Track Meet
STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High School.Credit: Google Maps
A 13-year-old has been formally charged after a shooting in Ferguson, Missouri, on March 31 left a 13-year-old boy dead and a 15-year-old boy hospitalized. The incident occurred in the parking lot of STEAM Academy at McCluer South Berkeley High School shortly after a regional track meet ended.
What Happened
Ferguson police say officers responded to reports of shots fired at approximately 7:02 p.m. local time on Tuesday, March 31. Responding officers quickly found two juvenile victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were transported to a nearby hospital; the 13-year-old victim was later pronounced dead, and the 15-year-old remained hospitalized in serious condition.
The alleged shooter, also 13, was located roughly two blocks from the school and was taken into custody along with a recovered firearm, police said. Authorities have not publicly identified the juvenile because of his age.
Police car (stock image)Credit: Getty
“This is a heartbreaking incident that has deeply impacted our community, especially the families and students connected to this tragedy,” Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle said in a release. “We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and ask the community to keep all those affected in their thoughts.”
Charges and Investigation
The St. Louis County Family Court has filed formal charges against the juvenile suspect, including second-degree murder, first-degree assault, two counts of armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. Court officials say the investigation is active and that investigators have not yet determined a motive.
School District Response
The Ferguson-Florissant School District said the meet involved students from about 20 schools and that the shooting occurred as attendees were leaving. The district emphasized that no Ferguson-Florissant students or families were involved and thanked local law enforcement for their rapid response, adding that student and staff safety remains a top priority.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Ferguson Police Department at 314-522-3100. For guidance on safe firearm storage and protecting children from unsecured guns, officials recommend visiting BeSMARTforkids.org.
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