A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in St. Louis when a 16-year-old boy, Colin Brown, lost his life after being hit by a stray bullet while riding home with his dad. The incident happened last Saturday night as Colin, a high school junior and hockey player, was returning from a game.
The bullet struck their car on a city highway, an event police describe as “rare.” Colin fought for his life in the hospital for days but passed away on Wednesday, leaving his family, friends, and community in deep sorrow.
Police are investigating the shooting, and while no arrests have been made yet, they’ve received tips and new video evidence that could lead to answers. Mitch McCoy, a spokesperson for the St. Louis Police, urged anyone with information to step forward.
One witness, Lily Paniucki, shared how she heard Colin’s father calling for help that night. Lily, who was nearby for a friend’s birthday party, rushed over to perform CPR until emergency crews arrived. Despite everyone’s efforts, Colin’s injuries were too severe.
Colin’s family made the decision to donate his organs—a reflection of the kind-hearted and giving person he was, according to McCoy. “Colin’s donation speaks volumes about the amazing young man he was and the values his family stands for,” McCoy said, encouraging others to be inspired by their selflessness.
Colin’s hockey team and over 200 members of the community gathered at a vigil to honor him on Monday. His teammates and coaches remember him as someone who was always there to lift others up. “He was the first to cheer you up when you were down,” said Blake Ryan, his assistant coach. “He was a natural leader who always did the right thing.”
The St. Louis Blues hockey team plans to hold a moment of silence in Colin’s memory before their game on Saturday, further showing how much he meant to the local sports community.
Missouri Governor-elect Mike Kehoe also shared his condolences, calling the situation “devastating” in a social media post. “This senseless violence has to stop,” he said, demanding justice for Colin.
Colin’s tragic death has shaken everyone who knew him, and his memory continues to inspire acts of kindness and strength. The search for answers goes on, as the city mourns the loss of a young life taken too soon.
