St. Louis Community Mourns Loss of 16-Year-Old Darrell Price After Tragic Shooting Near SLU

St. Louis Community Mourns Loss of 16-Year-Old Darrell Price After Tragic Shooting Near SLU

October 11, 2025 — St. Louis, MO

The St. Louis community is reeling after the devastating and untimely death of 16-year-old Darrell Price, a bright, kind-hearted teenager whose life was tragically cut short in a shooting near Saint Louis University’s campus earlier this week.

The incident occurred on Monday evening, October 6, at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the parking lot of a commercial building located near 3822 Laclede Avenue. The area, frequented by both university students and local residents, houses popular fast-food restaurants including Papa John’s and Jimmy John’s, and is typically considered a relatively safe zone due to its proximity to campus and regular foot traffic.

According to initial reports from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to calls of gunfire and found Darrell Price suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services rushed to the scene and attempted life-saving efforts, but tragically, Darrell succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

The news has sent shockwaves through the St. Louis area, as family members, friends, classmates, and neighbors remember a young man full of promise whose future was brutally taken away. Darrell was a junior in high school, known for his bright smile, generous spirit, and deep love for his family and community. He dreamed of going to college, possibly pursuing a career in engineering or technology, and was actively involved in after-school programs focused on youth empowerment and STEM education.

“Darrell was a joy to everyone who knew him,” said his aunt, Monique Harris, during a vigil held Tuesday night. “He was respectful, intelligent, funny, and kind. He had his whole life ahead of him. We are devastated, and we are angry. Our community is hurting.”

Hundreds gathered at the site of the shooting on Tuesday and Wednesday, leaving candles, flowers, hand-written notes, and photos in honor of the teen. Friends described him as someone who could “light up a room” and “never hesitated to help someone in need.” His school has announced plans for a memorial next week, offering grief counselors and support services for students and staff.

City leaders and community advocates have spoken out, calling for justice and greater action to address the ongoing issue of gun violence that continues to plague St. Louis.

Mayor Tishaura Jones issued a statement on Wednesday:
“The loss of Darrell Price is heartbreaking. No child should have to grow up in fear, and no family should have to bury a child due to senseless violence. My heart is with Darrell’s family and all those mourning this unimaginable loss. We must continue working together to make our neighborhoods safe for every young person in our city.”

As of now, police say the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses who may have seen the events leading up to the shooting.

This tragedy comes amid a concerning trend of youth-related gun violence in the region. Local organizations, such as “Stop the Violence STL” and “Mothers Advocating Safe Streets,” are renewing calls for stronger gun laws, youth intervention programs, and community-based conflict resolution initiatives.

“How many more young lives have to be taken before we take this seriously?” said Erica Jennings, founder of a local anti-violence group. “Darrell’s death cannot be in vain. We need systemic change. We need resources. And we need accountability.”

The Price family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and to start a scholarship in Darrell’s name, aimed at supporting other youth in the community who strive to make a positive impact.

As St. Louis mourns, the city is once again faced with the sobering reality that no neighborhood is immune to the epidemic of violence — and that behind each statistic is a name, a face, a family, and a future forever altered.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department or submit tips anonymously through CrimeStoppers.

Remembering Darrell Price (2009–2025):
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 18, at Greater New Hope Baptist Church, located at 2900 Saint Louis Avenue, with a viewing beginning at 9 a.m. and the service to follow at 11 a.m.