ST. LOUIS – CrimeStoppers is offering up to a $25,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest for the shooting death of a MetroLink security guard.
According to a spokesperson for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the shooting occurred at about 10 a.m. Sunday in the 700 block of Hodiamont near the Delmar Loop Metro Station. Police said a MetroLink security guard, 30-year-old James Cook, was shot in the face after responding to a reported disturbance. Cook confronted the individual causing the disturbance, who then pulled out a gun and shot Cook.
He was not conscious but he was breathing when police arrived on the scene. He later died from his injury.
Cook worked for a private security firm, hired by MetroLink. He leaves behind two daughters and his wife Kimberly. There is a GoFundMe page set up to help the Cook family.
Police described the suspect as a Black man in his 40s, wearing a black-hooded sweatshirt with orange letters on the back that says “football.” He’s also wearing a black coat, dark blue gaiter-style face mask, stocking cap with orange lettering, black computer-type bag with a strap, dark pants, greying beard/mustache, and greyish hair protruding from the stocking cap. He’s believed to still be armed.
“It’s sad. Sad situation,” said Christian Hughes, a MetroLink commuter. “Usually, I get to walk these streets anytime and nothing really happens. But it’s something you can’t be prepared for.”
The shooting disrupted MetroLink service between the Wellston and Forest Park-DeBaliviere MetroLink Stations.
People who use public transit regularly who spoke with FOX 2 weren’t worried about the delays. Instead, they’re concerned about their safety and the safety of the security guards at the station.
“It makes me a little concerned since I travel it every day,” Hughes said. “I don’t know if they have any safety precautions or not for that situation.”
Bi-State Development President and Chief Executive Officer Taulby Roach released a statement saying, “One of our team members was killed due to an evil and senseless act of violence. His loss is devastating. All of our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and those close to him. Our region is challenged by these random acts of violence. We are committed to working with our regional leaders and law enforcement partners to confront this crisis.”
CrimeStoppers has posted a reward in the amount of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest in the investigation.
Anyone with tips must call or email the information directly to to theCrimeStoppers. The tipline is 1-866-371-TIPS. You can use the free P3 app.
