FERGUSON, Mo. — Police have arrested a security guard after the guard and another man exchanged gunfire early Saturday morning at a QuikTrip in Ferguson.
The security guard, identified as Maury Adams, shot and killed a customer during an exchange of gunfire, the Ferguson Police Department said. The guard has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action. His bond has been set at $50,000.
Police have not shared the identity of the victim.
The victim entered the gas station, located on West Florissant Avenue, at 1:30 a.m. Saturday, police said. He allegedly attempted to pay without the proper ID required for the transaction, which caused a disagreement with the cashier.
Surveillance footage showed the man leaving the store and returning shortly thereafter, officers said. When he returned, an argument occurred between the man and the security officer.
The exchange escalated, and both the security officer and the unidentified man pulled out guns, police said. The footage shows an exchange of gunshots fired.
The man suffered fatal gunshot wounds and died at the scene. The security officer was hit during the exchange and suffered non-critical injuries. A bulletproof vest protected him from greater harm.
The security officer was released from the hospital after receiving medical attention.
Robin Love, a frequent customer, had just been in the store hours before speaking with the staff.
"I always say to them be safe because you see a lot of nonsense in their neighborhood," Love said.
Love, who has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years, said she noticed a change when the store switched security companies some years ago. She also said the shooting was another example of why systemic issues needed to be addressed.
"We need to step up and make some changes. Big time," Love added.
St. Louis County Crime Scene Unit is assisting the Ferguson Police Department with this investigation.
Anyone with information about the shooting or who may have been present at or around the time of the incident should contact the Ferguson Police Department at 314-522-3100.
This is a breaking news story. 5 On Your Side will update it as more information becomes available.
Resources for crime victims
If you have been a victim of a crime or know someone who has been, 5 On Your Side has compiled a list of resources.
The Crime Victim Center of St. Louis has multiple programs to support victims of crime. Crime Victim Center’s programs range from direct services to crime victims as well as “creating awareness and change within the systems they encounter.”
Life Outside of Violence "helps those harmed by stabbing, gunshot or assault receive the treatment, support and resources they need to find alternatives to end the cycle of violence."
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has the Neighborhood Healing Network, which serves people who have experienced crime, violence or been the victim of an incident that caused trauma.