Five individuals, among them four teenagers, are facing charges of first-degree murder following the tragic shooting of a 13-year-old girl, who later succumbed to her injuries.
Madison County State’s Attorney Matt Haine revealed that Ra’niya Steward was shot on February 3rd in what he described as an act of “senseless violence” that unfolded on the 900 block of Highland Avenue. Steward was rushed to a St. Louis hospital in critical condition and fought bravely for her life until her passing on Tuesday, February 13th. Haine emphasized that evidence suggests Steward was not the intended target of the shooting.
Initially, two 19-year-olds, Alvin Perry III and Raysean Colvin, were apprehended on February 7th and charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, and aggravated unlawful use of weapons. Colvin faces an additional charge of unlawful sale or delivery of firearms.
Subsequently, on February 10th, authorities announced the arrest of a third suspect, 24-year-old Keith Sanders, on charges including attempted first-degree murder, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and aggravated battery with a firearm. The statement alleges that Sanders played a role in encouraging a minor to engage in violent behavior by providing specific information that would incite such actions.
According to the statement, it is alleged that Sanders, or a minor under his supervision, discharged the firearm that ultimately resulted in Steward’s tragic death.
Following Steward’s passing on February 13th, the charges against the accused were upgraded from attempted first-degree murder to first-degree murder. Additionally, Vito Crowder and Dakota Perry, both aged 16, were charged with first-degree murder and aggravated unlawful use of weapons. Haine clarified that the murder charges against Crowder and Perry render them automatically eligible to be tried as adults.
While Sanders, Alvin Perry, and Colvin are currently in custody, Dakota Perry and Crowder remain at large.
Court documents referenced by the Alton Telegraph allege that Sanders informed the minors of the presence of individuals from a rival faction at a specific location, prompting them to bring firearms for an armed robbery, shooting, or intimidation. The targets were reportedly a juvenile and a 19-year-old with a criminal record.
Alvin Perry purportedly escorted Crowder and Dakota Perry to a residence on Long Street with the intention that they would discharge a firearm. After the shooting, Sanders allegedly transported them back to his residence, while Colvin was accused of providing the firearm to the minors.
Expressing profound sadness over the tragic incident, Haine stated, “This case is beyond tragic. The life of a beautiful young girl has been lost, and our community is hurting. Ra’niya, her family, and her loved ones remain in our prayers.”
