Three Women Murdered In Home Invasion

ST. LOUIS, MO — Three women were fatally shot as they tried to flee a home invasion early Friday morning. They were all said to be in their 20s, but authorities have not released any names. The break-in and triple murder occurred around 3 a.m. on John Ave. near Fairground Park on the city's north side, police said.

Police received multiple calls reporting gunfire and recovered multiple shell casings from different caliber weapons at the scene, implying more than one shooter was involved. A man was also at home during the shooting, but he escaped unharmed. Police say the women were shot inside a car as they too tried to escape.

The women's deaths bring the total murders in St. Louis to 203 this year, a 21-year record. Three-quarters of those deaths were caused by firearms.

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 accidents. Almost half are children or young adults.

Police have not made any arrests in the latest killings. 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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