CEDAR HILL, Mo. — A 19-year-old man is accused of shooting another man during an argument Thursday night in Jefferson County.
Hunter Kirkpatrick was charged with first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action, a press release said.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a fight in progress shortly after 8 p.m. at the Cedar Hill River Access in the 700 block of Cedar Hill Road.
While deputies were on scene investigating, a separate argument began between Kirkpatrick and the 21-year-old victim. Police said Kirkpatrick drew a handgun and shot the victim multiple times while deputies were standing feet away.
He was taken into custody at the scene.
The victim was taken to a local hospital where he is undergoing treatment, police said. No information was available on his condition.
“I’m certain the victim is alive today because of the quick actions by Deputies at the scene who jumped in to provide first aid until EMS crews from Big River Ambulance District arrived,” said Sheriff Dave Marshak. “I’d like to commend the Deputies, EMS, nurses, and surgeons who saved this young man’s life.”
Kirkpatrick is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail.
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.
Cure Violence is an international organization that is present in a handful of St. Louis neighborhoods. Violence interrupters are trained to deescalate violent situations within their own communities.
