SHOOTING AT KOENEMAN PARK: Two Women Injured, One in Critical Condition After Fight Turns Violent in Jennings
JENNINGS, MO (St. Louis County) — A peaceful afternoon at Koeneman Park was shattered by violence Friday when a fight between several women escalated into a shooting, leaving two victims wounded—one critically—and the community shaken.
According to the St. Louis County Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene shortly after 4:00 p.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting a disturbance and the sound of gunshots coming from within the park, which is located in the heart of Jennings and is often frequented by families and neighborhood residents.
A Physical Confrontation Turns Deadly
Preliminary information provided by police indicates that the incident began as a verbal and physical altercation between a group of women. Witnesses described the situation escalating quickly as shouting turned to pushing and physical blows. In the midst of the chaos, one of the women involved reportedly drew a firearm and opened fire.
Two adult females were struck by gunfire during the violent outburst.
One of the victims sustained life-threatening injuries and was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition, authorities confirmed. The second woman, while also wounded, is said to be in stable condition after receiving emergency medical care.
Suspect in Custody
Police stated that one female suspect was taken into custody shortly after officers arrived at the scene. At this time, her identity has not been released. Investigators say she is believed to be the individual who discharged the weapon. No other suspects are currently being sought.
Officials have not disclosed what sparked the original fight or whether the women involved were known to one another prior to the altercation.
Ongoing Investigation by Crimes Against Persons Bureau
The case has been turned over to the St. Louis County Police Department’s Bureau of Crimes Against Persons, which is now leading the investigation into the shooting. Detectives spent Friday evening canvassing the park for evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing any potential surveillance footage that may shed light on the moments leading up to the incident.
“While we have one person in custody, we are urging anyone who was present at Koeneman Park during the incident or who has video or information about the altercation to come forward,” said a spokesperson for the department. “Community cooperation is vital in helping us understand what happened and ensuring accountability.”
Community on Edge
The shooting has left residents of Jennings rattled and calling for increased safety measures at local parks. “It’s supposed to be a place for kids to play and families to relax,” said Tamara Owens, who lives nearby and visits Koeneman Park regularly. “Now we’re afraid to go out, especially when fights can turn into something this tragic.”
Local leaders are urging calm and promising to support law enforcement in ensuring that justice is served. Some are also advocating for conflict resolution programs and community outreach to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
How to Help
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the case to contact the St. Louis County Police Department directly or call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477). Tips can be made anonymously, and those who provide useful information may be eligible for a reward.
As of Saturday morning, no formal charges have been announced, and the suspect remains in custody pending further investigation.
Further updates will be provided as more details become available.