ST. LOUIS — Police are asking for help in finding the man who shot and killed a man in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood of the City of St. Louis on August 15.
Police released a photo of a man standing near a black or dark gray car, arms outstretched, aiming a gun at something out of the frame.
Michael Wiott, 31, was found lying in the street with a gunshot wound. Police say he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The shooting happened in the 4300 block of California Avenue
The suspect was wearing black shorts, white crew socks, black shoes and a black crossbody bag.
St. Louis Metropolitan Police say anyone with information should call the Homicide Division directly at 314-444-5371. Anyone with a tip who wants to remain anonymous and is interested in a reward can contact CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477).
"Ah man it's terrible to see that happen in broad daylight or even at night time," said one south side resident.
"It was crazy. It woke me up," said another woman who asked 5 On Your Side to not reveal her name.
After she heard two gunshots, the woman ran outside.
She says she saw the victim lying in the street.
He later died.
"It was sad and tragic. I went over there to check on him and a lot of people were recording it," said the concerned woman.
Back in the south side neighborhood where Michael WIoltt lost his life, people hope the surveillance photo pays off for police.
"For what he did, he needs to be caught," said the gas station customer.
'Yeah, I think they're gonna catch him because it was in broad daylight. He's on camera clear as day," added the one neighbor.
Anyone with information or a tip that is interested in receiving a possible reward is urged to call CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477), or the Homicide Division at 314-444-5371. Tips submitted directly to police detectives are not eligible for CrimeStoppers’ rewards.
Editor's note: A previous version of this story indicated the shooting happened in the Fox Park neighborhood at a gas station on Jefferson Avenue. We regret the error.
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.
Better Family Life is a nonprofit community development organization working to "stabilize inner-city neighborhoods." One aspect of its mission is a gun violence de-escalation program.
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 an anti-crime program called “Safety Net for Youth Initiative,” which is a joint partnership with St. Louis Public Schools to provide services to at-risk youth.
Cure Violence is an international organization that has recently launched in a handful of St. Louis neighborhoods. Violence interrupters are trained to deescalate violent situations within their own communities.
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