St. Louis police are searching for suspects after a second vehicle pulled up and opened fire on officers during a traffic stop in north St. Louis, an attack detectives believe may have been an attempted ambush. No officers or bystanders were injured, and police said officers did not fire back.
The gunfire erupted Tuesday near Thekla Avenue and Riverview Boulevard after officers from the 6th District and ATF agents stopped a vehicle, according to KSDK. A second vehicle approached, its occupants fired at law enforcement, and officers briefly pursued the suspect vehicle before it stopped on Sells Avenue near Riverview Boulevard.
Suspects Escape After Brief Pursuit
Multiple law enforcement agencies joined the search, but the people involved escaped. Police have not released suspect names, a detailed description of the vehicles or a possible motive.
Detectives are treating the shooting as more than a random burst of street gunfire, saying the circumstances suggest the officers may have been deliberately targeted. Investigators are asking residents and business owners near the shooting area to review surveillance footage that could show the vehicles before, during or after the attack.
Police Ask For Surveillance Video
Anyone with relevant video can submit it to [email protected], according to investigators. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department also accepts anonymous crime tips through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-8477, as detailed on the department's anonymous tips page.
The investigation remains active, and police have not reported any arrests or charges. Authorities are asking people who witnessed the shooting or noticed suspicious activity around Thekla Avenue, Riverview Boulevard or Sells Avenue to contact investigators rather than approach anyone they believe may be involved.
