ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO — Heartbreak and sorrow ripple across the north St. Louis County community this week as family, friends, and neighbors mourn the tragic loss of Marshaun Futrell Jr., affectionately known as “Baby Marshaun”, an 11-year-old boy whose life was cut short by gun violence on Monday night, May 5, 2025.
St. Louis County Police responded at approximately 8:14 p.m. to a call of a shooting in the 1800 block of Longford Drive, located in the Hathaway Manor neighborhood. When officers arrived, they found young Marshaun suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where, despite the efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead.
The news of Marshaun’s passing has shaken the community and reignited calls for action to end the epidemic of gun violence affecting children in Missouri and beyond.
A Joyful Spirit Taken Too Soon
Marshaun Futrell Jr., known for his infectious laugh, wide smile, and boundless energy, was a beloved son, brother, cousin, and friend. Described by his family as “a bright light” and “an old soul with a young heart,” Baby Marshaun loved riding his bike, playing video games, and spending time with family—especially his siblings, whom he adored.
“He was just a kid who brought joy wherever he went,” said his aunt, Lakisha Futrell. “He lit up every room he entered. He didn’t deserve this.”
Marshaun was a student at a local elementary school, where teachers and classmates are now grieving the sudden loss of a friend and peer. Grief counselors have been made available on campus as the school works to support students and staff during this painful time.
Community Mourning and Calls for Justice
In the wake of the tragedy, a makeshift memorial of candles, teddy bears, and handwritten notes has grown outside the family’s home. Neighbors, shaken and heartbroken, are gathering to pray and offer condolences. A community vigil is being organized for later this week.
“This was someone’s baby. This was our baby,” said a community elder at the site. “When you lose a child like this, the whole neighborhood hurts.”
Police have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the shooting and have not released details about the circumstances surrounding it. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward by contacting St. Louis County Police at 636-529-8210 or anonymously through CrimeStoppers.
“We need justice for Marshaun,” said Pastor Rodney Franklin, who is helping the family coordinate funeral arrangements. “We need answers. But more than that, we need change.”
Remembering Baby Marshaun
Marshaun Futrell Jr. is survived by his mother and father, several siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and a large extended family who loved him dearly. They now face the unimaginable task of laying their child to rest, while trying to hold on to the memories of the joy he brought into their lives.