Crime
14-year-old LaJuan Swopes killed after shooting outside STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High School in Ferguson
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — A 14-year-old has died and another juvenile remains in serious condition following a shooting Tuesday evening in the parking lot of STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley in Ferguson, authorities confirmed.
A 13-year-old suspect is currently in custody.
According to the Ferguson Police Department, the incident occurred as attendees were leaving a track meet that began earlier in the day at approximately 4 p.m.
The event, hosted at the school, involved participation from approximately 20 schools.
Police responded to reports of gunfire in the parking lot area and located multiple victims.
Early Wednesday, officials confirmed that one of those victims, a 14-year-old LaJuan Swopes, succumbed to their injuries.
Another juvenile, whose age has not been publicly released, sustained serious injuries and remains hospitalized.
Authorities have taken a 13-year-old into custody in connection with the shooting. No additional details regarding charges have been released at this time.
Ferguson Police spokesperson Patricia Washington stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public, emphasizing that the situation was quickly contained.
The Ferguson-Florissant School District confirmed that none of its students were involved in the incident.
In a statement, district officials expressed concern over the proximity of the violence to school grounds:
“We understand that situations like this can feel unsettling, and we are saddened to have something happen so close to our schools. We are grateful to our local law enforcement partners for their quick action. The safety of our students and staff will continue to be our top priority.”
Investigators have not yet determined what led to the shooting.
Authorities indicated that they are reviewing social media activity as part of efforts to establish a possible motive.
The investigation remains ongoing.
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — A 35-year-old man has died after being shot inside a residence in Birmingham early Thursday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim was identified as Ralen Jerean McCurdy, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. McCurdy was found unresponsive inside a home in the 4300 block of 12th Court North after police responded to reports of gunfire and an injured person shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Despite the response from emergency personnel, McCurdy did not survive his injuries. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 2:04 a.m.
According to authorities, officers assigned to Birmingham Police Department’s South Precinct were dispatched to the area shortly after 1:40 a.m. Thursday following a ShotSpotter alert and a report of an injured individual.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered McCurdy unresponsive inside the home. Emergency responders subsequently confirmed his death at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have not yet been publicly established.
Birmingham police detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding McCurdy’s death. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspect information or possible motive was included in the details released.
Investigators will continue working to determine what happened inside the residence and identify anyone who may have been involved. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
McCurdy’s death marks Birmingham’s fourth homicide since Saturday, according to the information provided. The latest fatal shooting adds to a difficult stretch for the city and leaves another family grieving the loss of a loved one.
At 35 years old, McCurdy’s life ended in a violent incident that remains under investigation. His death is a painful loss for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
As detectives continue their work, loved ones are left to remember McCurdy while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to his death.
May Ralen Jerean McCurdy rest in peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and support during this heartbreaking time.