BRIDGETON, Mo. — St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has filed charges against a suspect in connection to the 15-year-old who was shot and killed Saturday night, May 18, in Bridgeton.  

Nineteen-year-old Garron Stevenson has been charged with second-degree murder, and eight other felony charges, including unlawful use of a weapon and four counts of armed criminal action, according to St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell.  

“Our thoughts and prayers in pursuit of justice are with and for this family,” Bell said during a press conference Thursday.

On Saturday, police responded to a report of a disturbance at a “slide show” car event near Corporate Woods Trail and Earth City Expressway. 

Upon arrival, officers found a 15-year-old male shot in the head. He was transported to a hospital where he died days later, according to Officer Scott Stevens with the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis.

The victim was seated in the back of a truck with three others when the shooting occurred. The 15-year-old was identified as Gerardo Perez. 

Stevenson was a passenger in the vehicle with Perez. 

“Our officers responded quickly, securing the scene and providing crucial assistance,” said Bridgeton Police Chief Mark Mossotti during the press conference. 

“Their quick action was vital in setting the stage for what would become a comprehensive and meticulous investigation.”

Stevenson admitted to police to firing an AR-15 eight times Saturday night, according to authorities. 

Police uncovered an AR-15 at his residence, which was hidden inside a wall. Shell casings from the crime scene matched the shell casings from the AR-15 found at Stevenson’s residence. 

More than 45 leads were examined during the investigation. Witness interviews and surveillance footage helped police uncover the red Honda vehicle that the suspect and victim were in.

“I wanted to express deep gratitude to every member of this team,” Mossotti said. 

“Your professionalism, dedication and tireless efforts have been exemplary. The success of this investigation is a testament to your skills and commitment to protecting our community.”

The investigation has been a collaborative effort with Bridgeton Police Department, the Major Case Squad and federal agencies. 

The case is still an ongoing investigation.