JENNINGS, Mo. – A Missouri community is in shock after a 14-year-old boy was fatally stabbed near his middle school on Tuesday afternoon. The victim, Justin Brooks of Jennings, leaves behind grieving family members, classmates, and a community who are all struggling to understand the violence.
The attack happened around 3 p.m. on the 2400 block of Hord Avenue, just a short walk from Rose Mary Johnson Jennings Junior High School. St. Louis County police say the violence does not appear to have taken place at random. This chilling fact has added to the fear among residents who report witnessing frequent fights involving youth near the school campus.
School resource officers were first on the scene, desperately attempting to save Brooks’ life. Despite officers’ efforts to intervene in addition to the efforts of medical personnel, the teen ultimately died from his injuries.
As the investigation continues, a crisis team is working with students and staff at the school. Police are also increasing their patrols in the surrounding area.
This incident comes on the heels of a violent altercation that took place at Hazelwood East High School, highlighting a concerning rise in youth violence in the area. Authorities have no suspects in custody as of yet.