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.
Local News
Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson Killed in Crash on Lucas and Hunt Road in North St. Louis County
Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in an early-morning crash in north St. Louis County as Ka’Ontee’ Dajuan Johnson, 30.
According to the St. Louis County Police Department, North County Precinct, officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash at approximately 1:26 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the 9000 block of Lucas and Hunt Road.
Upon arrival, officers located Johnson, who had been struck by at least one vehicle while he was in the roadway.
Johnson was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Police stated that the driver of one involved vehicle remained on scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation.
A preliminary investigation indicates that Johnson was in the roadway at the time he was struck.
Family members have expressed concerns that another vehicle may have struck Johnson first and fled the scene, and they believe the circumstances surrounding the incident may involve possible foul play.
Authorities have not confirmed these claims but noted that the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident remains under active investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to this crash is urged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.
Individuals wishing to remain anonymous or be eligible for a potential reward may contact CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).