On the afternoon of December 11, 2025, a violent incident unfolded in the Tower Grove South neighborhood of Saint Louis, Missouri, claiming the life of 38-year-old Kevin Karnes. Police officers responded to a call shortly after 3:00 p.m. in the 3700 block of Winnebago Street, where they discovered the male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the arrival of emergency medical personnel and immediate attempts to render aid, Karnes succumbed to his injuries.
Some reports indicate he was pronounced dead at the scene, while others suggest he was transported to a hospital before passing away.
Homicide detectives with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department quickly launched an investigation into the shooting. Witness testimony played a crucial role, revealing that Karnes had been engaged in a verbal altercation with a teenager just prior to the gunfire. Bystanders reported that the young man was the only individual seen possessing a firearm during the dispute. Authorities later confirmed that the two individuals were related.
Following the investigation, police arrested a 19-year-old suspect in connection with the homicide. The teen was taken into custody and faces serious charges, including first-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of armed criminal action. Law enforcement officials have stated that the investigation remains active and have urged anyone with further information about the events leading up to the tragedy to contact the Homicide Division or CrimeStoppers.
