On November 29, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m., 33-year-old Sharif Darryl Walker-El Jr. was fatally shot while riding a westbound Green Line light rail train in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incident occurred as the train approached the Hamline Avenue Station. Emergency responders transported Walker-El to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
As of December 28, 2024, no arrests have been made in connection with Walker-El's death. Metro Transit Police, with assistance from the St.
Paul Police Department, continue to investigate the case and are actively searching for a suspect. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact their tip line at 612-349-7222.
In the wake of this tragedy, Walker-El's family has expressed profound grief. His sister, Kentrell Anthony, described him as 'funny, kind, protective' and noted that he was known by the nickname 'Reef.' She also mentioned that their mother has now endured the loss of two children to gun violence. To assist with funeral expenses and support the family during this difficult time, Anthony organized a GoFundMe campaign titled 'Remembering Sharif.'
Walker-El's obituary indicates that a celebration of his life was scheduled for December 19, 2024, at Progressive Baptist Church in St. Paul. The obituary reflects the family's deep sorrow and their desire to honor his memory.
This incident marks the first fatal shooting onboard a light-rail vehicle in Metro Transit's history. It has prompted discussions about safety measures on public transit, including proposals to increase the presence of safety ambassadors on trains to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The investigation into Walker-El's death remains ongoing. Authorities continue to seek information from the public to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for this crime.
