ST. LOUIS, Mo. – A woman was shot at the Ameristar Casino in St. Charles early this morning, prompting a swift police response and the arrest of a suspect in connection with the incident. Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 1:30 am after reports of gunfire inside the popular casino.
The victim, identified as 32-year-old Sarah Jenkins, was found with a gunshot wound to her leg and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Her condition is currently stable, and she is expected to make a full recovery. Witnesses at the scene reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing a man fleeing the area shortly after the shooting occurred.
Police were able to quickly apprehend a suspect, identified as 35-year-old Michael Thompson, in the vicinity of the casino. Thompson was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the St. Charles County Jail. Authorities have not released any information regarding a motive for the shooting, but they believe it was an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The Ameristar Casino issued a statement expressing their shock and concern over the incident, stating that the safety and security of their patrons and employees is their top priority. The casino has been cooperating fully with law enforcement during the investigation and has implemented additional security measures in response to the shooting.
The incident has left many in the community shaken and concerned about the safety of public spaces in the area. “It’s just really scary to think that something like this could happen in a place where people come to have fun and relax,” said one casino patron. “I hope they can figure out what led to this and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting and are asking anyone with information to come forward. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information regarding the suspect is urged to contact the St. Charles Police Department. As the investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with the shock and aftermath of this violent incident at a popular local establishment.