James Bond III, 14, was found dead from a gunshot wound to the chest in the front yard of a home in the 6800 block of Larry Lane in Berkeley, Missouri, on the evening of March 26, 2023. First responders arrived around 7:00 p.m. after reports of gunshots and multiple armed juveniles; the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Berkeley Police Department asked the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis to assist. Investigators identified multiple suspects. Two 18-year-olds, Taivion Kirk and La'Marrion Mathews, were arrested and charged with second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon, first-degree assault, and armed criminal action, each with bond set at $250,000. Clifton Booze Jr., of Hazelwood, was later charged with the same counts, and a 14-year-old was certified to stand trial as an adult.

The motive and precise events leading to the shooting have not been made public. If anyone knew James, saw activity on Larry Lane that evening, or has information relevant to the case, please come forward.