On March 8, 2025, an incident in St. Louis County led to the hospitalization of Vincent Simmons, 55, following an officer-involved shooting.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) has charged Simmons with several offenses related to the events of that morning.
Details of the Incident
- Time and Location: Just after 1 a.m. on March 8, officers responded to a license plate reader alert regarding a vehicle reported stolen from Richmond Heights.
- Pursuit and Crash: At Page Boulevard and Walton Avenue, officers attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle fled, leading to a pursuit that ended when the car crashed in an alley on the 5000 block of Kingshighway.
- Occupants and Arrest: Inside the vehicle were Simmons and two women. Simmons fled on foot, hiding in a yard. An officer entered the yard to apprehend him, during which Simmons allegedly discharged a firearm, resulting in a gunshot wound to his torso.
- Evidence and Injuries: A firearm was recovered from the crashed vehicle. Simmons was transported to a hospital in stable condition. No officers were injured during the incident.
Charges Filed
The Circuit Attorney’s Office has formally charged Simmons with:
- Resisting Arrest by Fleeing: Attempting to elude law enforcement during the pursuit.
- Resisting Arrest for a Felony: Engaging in actions hindering felony arrest procedures.
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm: Being in possession of a firearm without legal authorization.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance: Having illegal drugs in his possession at the time of the incident.
Vincent Simmons’ Background
Vincent Simmons has a notable history, including a wrongful conviction in Louisiana for a crime he did not commit. After serving over 44 years in prison, he was exonerated and released in 2022.
Legal Proceedings
Simmons is currently hospitalized, recovering from his injuries. The SLMPD’s Force Investigation Unit continues to investigate the shooting.
Pending his recovery, Simmons will face legal proceedings for the charges filed against him.
The March 8 incident underscores the complexities law enforcement encounters during high-risk operations. As investigations proceed, the SLMPD aims to provide clarity on the events leading up to the shooting.