Story perspectives

St. Louis Police Fatally Shoot Unarmed Teen; Footage Released

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Body camera footage released in April 2026 shows the St. Louis Police Department fatally shooting Emeshyon Wilkins, a 17-year-old, in the back of the head as he fled.
The footage shows Wilkins was unarmed, carrying a disassembled firearm incapable of firing.
Al Watkins, the family’s attorney, criticized the delay in releasing the video and urged accountability.
The St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office is reviewing the case for potential criminal liability.

History

Historical Context

The 2014 shooting of Michael Brown by Officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Missouri, sparked nationwide protests against police violence, highlighting systemic racial issues. The U.S. Department of Justice reported that police killed 1,100 individuals that year, intensifying calls for accountability. The recent shooting of Emeshyon Wilkins by St. Louis police underscores ongoing concerns about police practices and the need for reform in community relations.

1 of 2

Story summary

Body camera footage released in April 2026 shows the St. Louis Police Department fatally shooting Emeshyon Wilkins, a 17-year-old, in the back of the head as he fled.
The footage shows Wilkins was unarmed, carrying a disassembled firearm incapable of firing.
Al Watkins, the family’s attorney, criticized the delay in releasing the video and urged accountability.
The St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office is reviewing the case for potential criminal liability.

1 / 2