ST. LOUIS — The FBI's St. Louis Field Office asked for the public's help identifying a suspect in a violent hate crime that happened earlier this year on a MetroBus.
According to the FBI, the unknown suspect violently attacked and pointed a gun at a transgender victim at about 3:30 p.m. on April 13 aboard a MetroBus at Chippewa Street and Grand Boulevard in St. Louis' Dutchtown neighborhood.
Surveillance video showed the suspect taking a seat near the back of the bus and begin talking to the victim who was already aboard, according to the FBI. Minutes later, the suspect got up from his seat and began kicking and punching the victim nearly two dozen times. He also pointed a gun at the victim.
The FBI said the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous. He was described as a man in his 30s with an average build and possibly with a long scar on his right forearm. During the incident, he was wearing a neon yellow T-shirt with a dark emblem on his left chest pocket, khaki pants, dark sunglasses, a black beanie and black shoes with white soles. He was also carrying a dark-colored crossbody bag with frayed edges.
FBI seeking suspect in hate crime on St. Louis MetroBus
A reward of up to $10,000 is available for those who provide information leading to the identification and arrest of the suspect. Anyone with information was asked to contact their local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. You can also submit a tip online.
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.
To watch 5 On Your Side broadcasts or reports 24/7, 5 On Your Side is always streaming on 5+. Download for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV or the Apple TV App Store.