Gunfire Erupts Inside Schnucks on Lindell: One Man Shot as Chaos Spills Into Parking Lot
St. Louis, MO — May 25, 2025
A routine afternoon turned chaotic and terrifying at the Schnucks grocery store on Lindell Boulevard in St. Louis’ Central West End when a shootout erupted inside the busy supermarket, sending shoppers fleeing for their lives and leaving one man seriously wounded.
According to St. Louis Metropolitan Police, the gunfire began around 3:15 PM on Sunday when two separate groups encountered each other inside the store. Initial reports suggest an altercation broke out between the groups, which quickly escalated to gunfire within the grocery aisles, startling dozens of shoppers and store employees.
Witnesses described a scene of panic and confusion. One shopper, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “I was in the produce section when I heard three loud pops. At first, I thought something had dropped, but when people started running and screaming, I knew it was gunshots. I dropped to the ground and crawled behind the fruit stand.”
Surveillance video reviewed by investigators reportedly shows two men drawing firearms on each other near the front of the store, with at least one firing shots as others ducked and attempted to flee. The confrontation then spilled into the parking lot, where additional gunfire was exchanged.
Authorities confirmed that a Black male, whose identity has not yet been released, was struck multiple times during the shootout. He was reportedly shot in both the leg and chest. Emergency medical responders arrived on scene quickly and transported the victim to a nearby hospital. As of late Sunday evening, his condition remains unknown, and he is being treated for life-threatening injuries.
No other injuries have been reported, though several customers and employees were treated at the scene for shock and minor injuries sustained while trying to escape the chaos.
Schnucks spokesperson Carly Franklin released a brief statement Sunday evening:
“We are deeply troubled by the violent incident that occurred today at our Lindell location. Our hearts are with the victim and all those impacted. The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement during this investigation.”
The Central West End is typically known as one of St. Louis’s more upscale and peaceful neighborhoods, and this violent outburst has left residents shaken. Local leaders are calling for calm while demanding swift action and a full investigation.
“This type of violence is unacceptable anywhere — but especially in a place where families shop for groceries and where workers are just trying to do their jobs,” said 18th Ward Alderwoman Tina Pihl. “We will be working closely with police to make sure justice is served.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, but investigators are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses. Authorities believe multiple individuals may have been involved, and they are asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information is urged to contact the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department or CrimeStoppers.
Police have not yet commented on whether this was a targeted incident or a spontaneous dispute that turned violent. Officers remained on the scene well into the evening, canvassing the area and collecting shell casings from both inside and outside the store.
This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
If you were present at the scene or have any photos or video that may help in the investigation, please contact local law enforcement or submit a tip anonymously.