ST. LOUIS — Police say a teen who was shot when he and three other people attempted to rob two people in a car in Soulard on July 20 has died. The 15-year-old boy was dropped off at a hospital in critical condition and died from his injuries on Aug. 6.
Police responded to Soulard where two victims described being approached near 9th Street and Russell Boulevard at 1:30 a.m. July 20.
The victims, both 24 years old, said four people in dark clothing and ski masks walked up to their parked car. Police say one of the people reached into the vehicle through a window and began removing items belonging to the victims while another person stood behind the victims' car holding a rifle.
One of the people attempted to open the victims' car door, when the passenger in the car shot the suspect, police say.
The victims drove away, telling police they heard gunshots.
An off-duty officer working security said he heard gunshots and saw people pulling someone into a white SUV.
A white SUV later stopped at a hospital, dropping off the 15-year-old and then fleeing. The 15-year-old had been shot in the chest and police said he had a ski mask with him.
On Tuesday, Aug. 6, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. He was identified as Givonni Diaz.
Police are continuing to investigate.
“A child being dead, that’s not OK. It’s a bigger problem here,” said Precious Jones, the Founder of Generational Poverty Foundation.
Two summers ago, Jones’ 20-year-old son, Preston Jones, was shot and killed in Hazelwood.
His mother’s non-profit put up a billboard with her grandson’s picture on it.
Their ongoing message?
“We are against gun violence in the city, and we are in a crisis,” Jones said.
A “teen crime crisis” she insists is happening on the streets of St. Louis because “young boys and girls are crying out for help.”
Diaz was the 45th teen shot in the city as of Wednesday.
“We just elected new officials. They need to do their part. Law enforcement needs to do its part. This continues to be a community problem. We all must do our parts if we are to fix it,” added Jones.
And she continues her plea to parents.
“Parents and guardians, if you need help with your kids because you’re the first ones to know if your kid is in trouble, by all means, please reach out for help. The community cannot address the issues if you don’t reach out to let us know,” Jones said.
Jones’ non-profit also offers a variety of resources to parents in need.
For more information, visit www.bgpdaily.com.