ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO — A quiet Wednesday evening turned into unimaginable tragedy when gunfire erupted outside a neighborhood on Hobkirk Drive, killing a 14-year-old boy inside his own home. The victim, Du’wan Morgan, was struck by a bullet that tore through his bedroom wall while he played video games, according to St. Louis County Police.
The shooting occurred on the night of October 8, 2025, when two groups of teenagers reportedly began arguing in the street. What started as a confrontation quickly escalated into a deadly exchange of gunfire that sent bullets flying through several homes in the residential block. Authorities confirmed that Du’wan was not involved in the altercation and was not the intended target.
Inside the home, Du’wan’s mother and two younger brothers were present but unharmed. Neighbors described hearing multiple gunshots echoing through the street before police sirens filled the area. When officers arrived, they discovered the young teen fatally wounded in his bedroom. Emergency responders tried to save his life, but the boy was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told investigators they saw several masked individuals fleeing on foot immediately after the shooting. Detectives believe the gunmen were part of the two groups engaged in the earlier dispute. Police recovered multiple shell casings from the street and continue to analyze ballistic evidence in hopes of identifying those responsible.
Several nearby houses also sustained damage from stray bullets, leaving families shaken and fearful in what had always been considered a quiet neighborhood. “We heard at least a dozen shots,” one resident said. “Then we found out a child had been killed inside his home — it’s something this community will never forget.”
Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspects have been named. Investigators are canvassing the area for surveillance footage and urging anyone with information to come forward. Detectives believe that community cooperation will be crucial to solving this heartbreaking case and bringing justice to the Morgan family.
The senseless nature of Du’wan’s death has left residents across St. Louis County outraged and grieving. Community leaders, clergy, and youth advocates have called for an end to the gun violence that continues to claim innocent lives. Vigils and memorials have been planned near Hobkirk Drive, where friends and classmates are expected to gather to honor the young teen’s memory.
Family members described Du’wan as a bright and joyful boy who loved video games, sports, and spending time with his brothers. His mother, still in shock, told officers that the family had just finished dinner moments before the shooting started outside their home. What should have been an ordinary evening became a devastating reminder of how quickly violence can destroy lives.
Police are increasing patrols in the area as part of broader efforts to address youth-involved gun violence. Officials emphasized that even when young people believe they are settling disputes, the consequences can ripple far beyond those involved — sometimes with tragic and irreversible results.
As investigators continue their search for answers, the St. Louis County community is left mourning the loss of a child who had nothing to do with the violence that ended his life. His death stands as a sobering call for peace, accountability, and renewed efforts to protect innocent families from the escalating toll of gunfire. May he rest in peace.
