Crime
Michelle Hampton Found Dead After Alleged Kidnapping in Clayton, Body Discovered in North St. Louis
No injuries have been reported from the shooting.
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.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.