The story of Marcus DeAndres Price is one of a young life cut short in Sikeston, Missouri. Born in St. Louis and raised by his parents in Sikeston, the 27-year-old African American man was known to his friends and family as a dedicated father and a hard worker. A 2009 graduate of Sikeston High School, Price had served his country in the United States Army from 2009 to 2012, earning multiple commendations including the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Following his military service, he returned to civilian life in Sikeston, where he was employed as a cook at both Ruby Tuesday and the Sikeston Convalescent Center. He was a man of faith, having been a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, and was known for his love of video games and his devotion to his young son.
Tragedy struck on Thursday, August 23, 2018, when Price became the victim of a fatal shooting in Sikeston. The violent incident shook the local community and launched an immediate homicide investigation by the Sikeston Department of Public Safety. Officers responded to the scene where Price was found suffering from gunshot wounds, but he succumbed to his injuries, marking a somber day for the town and his grieving family.
In the days following the murder, investigators worked to identify those responsible for the crime. The investigation led authorities to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where they identified multiple suspects. Police arrested two men, identified in reports by the last names Rush and Depree, in connection with the shooting. Both men were taken into custody and faced a litany of serious charges, including first-degree murder, first-degree robbery, armed criminal action, and resisting arrest. At the time of their capture, law enforcement officials noted that two other individuals were also being sought in relation to the homicide, indicating a coordinated effort involving multiple suspects. The arrests brought a measure of progress to the case, though the loss of Marcus Price remained a painful reality for his community.
