Local News
Family Devastated After Drowning of 6-Year-Old Girl at Element St. Louis Midtown Hotel
St. Louis, MO — A family is mourning the loss of 6-year-old Lailah Austin, who tragically drowned while attending a party at the Element St. Louis Midtown Hotel on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to the hotel, located in the 3700 block of Forest Park Avenue, around 8:30 p.m. after receiving a report from hotel staff who discovered the child unresponsive in the indoor pool.
Emergency responders rushed Lailah to a nearby hospital, where she was listed in critical, unstable condition.
Despite medical efforts, Lailah succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Monday, January 20.
Her family is heartbroken, especially as they were preparing to celebrate her upcoming 7th birthday this Sunday.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has classified the incident as an “accidental injury” and has assigned its Child Abuse Unit to lead the investigation. Authorities have not released additional details at this time.
The tragic incident remains under investigation, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Lailah’s family, friends, and the community are rallying together to remember the young girl and support her loved ones during this difficult time.
ST. LOUIS, MO — The St. Louis Fire Department has identified the firefighter who tragically lost his life in a multi-vehicle crash over the weekend as 44-year-old Corey McBride, a veteran member of the department with nearly 20 years of service.
In an official statement released Sunday, the department expressed deep sorrow over McBride’s passing:
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our brother and devoted firefighter, Corey McBride, a veteran of nearly two decades with the St. Louis Fire Department.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time. We are deeply grateful for his many years of selfless service and dedication to our community.
Please keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.
Arrangements will be forthcoming.”
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the fatal collision occurred just before 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, at the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Whittier Street, on the boundary between The Ville and Vandeventer neighborhoods.
Investigators reported that McBride was driving a black Jeep Wrangler when he attempted to pass a gray Chrysler 300.
As McBride attempted the maneuver, the driver of the Chrysler began making a left turn onto Whittier Street, resulting in a violent collision.
Following the crash, the driver of the Chrysler fled the scene on foot.
Authorities confirmed that the individual later voluntarily turned himself in to police custody.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
McBride was pronounced dead at the scene.
His sudden passing has left the firefighting community and the broader city of St. Louis mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant known for his commitment, bravery, and loyalty.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the department once finalized.
Community members and fellow first responders are encouraged to keep McBride’s family and colleagues in their thoughts during this time of profound grief.