The St. Louis community is grieving after 14-year-old Samuel Williams Jr. lost his life following a shooting Wednesday evening in the Gravois Park neighborhood. Police say Samuel was shot just before 6 p.m. on Oregon Avenue near Miami Street. Despite his injuries, he managed to reach a nearby home, where officers later found him. He was transported to a hospital but tragically passed away.
The day before, a separate incident left a 13-year-old boy injured on Canaan Avenue near Broadway. That child is expected to recover.
Mayor Cara Spencer expressed her heartbreak over the loss, noting its proximity to her own family, “It is so tough. And the one in particular the 14-year-old my son’s 14. It was just blocks from where we’ve called home for the last 10 years.” She added that city officials are reviewing both incidents to prevent future acts of violence.
The City of St. Louis Office of Violence Prevention coordinates programs like Show Me Peace, aimed at reducing neighborhood violence. Jason Watson, Director of Show Me Peace, said his team responded quickly and is assisting in gathering information. “There’s never a place where we can say we won. Because if you’re the family experiencing that loss — my child was a victim of these circumstances,” he said.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about either shooting to contact CrimeStoppers anonymously at 866-371-TIPS. The city continues to work with families, community organizations, and law enforcement to address safety concerns and prevent further tragedies.
Samuel Williams Jr.’s death serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for community vigilance and support for St. Louis’ youth.