ST. LOUIS — Authorities are investigating a tragic incident involving the death of a woman following an alleged kidnapping early Wednesday morning.

The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Michelle Hampton, who was reportedly abducted outside her home in Clayton around 7:15 a.m. as she prepared to leave for work.

According to Michelle’s brother, Mike Potter, two men were seen forcing her into a vehicle before fleeing the scene.

The suspects also stole her car, which was later found abandoned. Michelle’s body was discovered in North St. Louis near the 4700 block of Greer Avenue.

Police reported that she had suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

The horrifying events unfolded in front of Michelle’s twin sister, Samantha, who witnessed the kidnapping. In a desperate attempt to save her sister, Samantha pursued the suspects in her own car, despite having her children with her.

During the chase, the suspects fired at Samantha’s vehicle. Thankfully, neither she nor her children were injured in the gunfire.

Investigators believe this was a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence. The area where Michelle’s body was found is close to Hickey Elementary School, prompting the school to implement a temporary soft lockdown as a precaution.

Police are actively working to gather more details about the incident and have called on the public for assistance.

Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities. Formal identification of Michelle’s body will be confirmed by the medical examiner’s office.

The shocking incident has devastated Michelle’s family, friends, and community members, who are struggling to comprehend the loss and are determined to seek justice.

Investigators continue to follow leads as they work to bring the suspects to justice.