Saint Louis Police Identify Double Shooting Victims

ST. LOUIS, MO — Ira Johnson, 55, and Sylvester Caston, 61, were fatally shot in the Penrose neighborhood of north St. Louis around 10:30 Saturday night. Police released their identities Monday.

A car was also stolen at the scene, but the car's owner was not injured. Police say they have a suspect, but have not released his name. It's not clear whether he is in custody.

More than 30,000 Americans are killed by guns every year and twice that number are injured, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 13,000 are murdered. The rest take their own lives or are victims of shooting accidents. Almost half are children or young adults.

Last year St. Louis cracked its 25-year murder record. Per capita, the city ranks third for homicides in the United States and first for non-fatal shootings, according to data from the FBI and Major Cities Chiefs Association.

Anyone with information should contact St. Louis Regional CrimeStoppers toll free at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477). All callers can remain anonymous. Tips can also be submitted through the CrimeStoppers website or free app.

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