In Ballwin, Missouri, authorities have detained a man linked to a deadly shooting that unfolded late Sunday night.
The incident took place shortly before 1 a.m. in a residence located on the 100 block of Spring Leigh Court, as reported by a Ballwin Police Department spokesperson.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered a woman with a gunshot wound to her head. The Metro-West Fire Protection District quickly transported her to a hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
The identity of the woman has not yet been disclosed.
By 11:45 a.m. that same day, the police had apprehended Zachary Childs near a creek close to the scene. They arrested him without any complications.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged Childs with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and first-degree burglary. He is currently being held without the possibility of bond.
Cynthia Bennett, the founder and CEO of JADASA, an organization in St. Louis County that offers support to victims of domestic abuse, commented on the incident. She noted that her organization rarely receives calls from Ballwin, but emphasized that this does not imply domestic violence is absent in the area.
Bennett highlighted the ubiquity of domestic violence and stressed the importance of victims knowing that help is available. She provided contact information for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and for JADASA, which can be reached at 314-269-0100.
She also mentioned the significance of community support in ensuring that victims are aware of the resources at their disposal.