Overview
- A 78-year-old man, later identified as John Wesley Allen Sr., was found stabbed and dead at a bus stop in East St. Louis after what investigators say was an apparent random attack.
- State police say investigators quickly identified and arrested a 15-year-old at a residence the same night, and the juvenile was formally charged with first-degree murder.
- Doorbell and neighborhood camera clips showing a person in a clown costume circulated online and helped identify the suspect, but authorities say the videos have not been fully authenticated.
- Prosecutors have filed to move the case to adult court so the teen could face adult sentencing if the transfer is granted; the suspect’s name has not been released and a decision is pending.
- Allen’s family and neighbors are grieving and alarmed; his relatives described him as a retired Metro Transit bus driver and Navy veteran and court hearings and further evidence review are next steps in the case.