In the heart of downtown St. Louis, a young man's life was tragically cut short in a brazen afternoon shooting. Darrius Mullins, a 30-year-old male, was killed on April 27, 2023, near Kiener Plaza, a place he frequented to enjoy his passion for skateboarding. His family remembers him as a joyful person, nicknamed 'Smiley,' who had a gift for making people laugh and lit up any room he entered.
On that Thursday afternoon, Mullins was taking a break on a bench in the plaza when he was
approached by an individual. An argument ensued, escalating to a horrific act of violence when the suspect drew a weapon and fired multiple shots at Mullins. Despite attempting to flee, Mullins was pursued by the gunman who continued to fire. Witnesses recounted the terrifying scene, with one bystander's car being struck by bullets. Darrius Mullins was pronounced dead at the scene, near the intersection of Seventh and Market Streets.
The investigation into the senseless killing led St. Louis police to take a 17-year-old male suspect into custody just a couple of days later. The teenage suspect was arrested in connection with the fatal shooting, bringing a small measure of hope for justice to a grieving family and a shocked community. Family and friends gathered at Kiener Plaza for a memorial to honor Darrius's life, a life described as full of infectious energy and smiles. While an arrest has been made, the profound loss of a son, a protector, and a friend who brought so much light to those around him remains. Further details regarding the suspect's identity and the specifics of the legal proceedings have not been made widely public.
