A downtown St. Louis killing on February 27, 2023, left 44-year-old David Saldana dead after an altercation at a Shell gas station on Convention Plaza. According to reports, the dispute with 23-year-old Deshawn Thomas continued as Thomas allegedly followed Saldana across Tucker Boulevard to the area near the former Globe-Democrat building. Video captured the encounter; Thomas is reported to have shot Saldana in the back and then, as Saldana pleaded, fired a second fatal shot to his head. Saldana, who was believed to be experiencing homelessness, died at the scene.

Police located and arrested Deshawn Thomas later that same day at the St. Louis Public Library about six blocks from the shooting. Officers recovered a firearm and bullet casings on Thomas that were reported to match those from the scene. Thomas was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action, pleaded not guilty at a court appearance, and was ordered held without bond.

Does anyone have information about Saldana’s movements that morning or about witnesses to the chase and shooting?