ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting in north St. Louis County that claimed the life of 17-year-old Damonte Hightower late Friday night, following what police describe as a verbal altercation that quickly turned deadly.The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced that 23-year-old Nykelte Wilburn has been charged in connection with Hightower’s killing.
The incident unfolded on August 29, 2025, at approximately 10:37 p.m., in the 11000 block of Larimore Road, after officers were alerted to the sound of gunfire by the city’s ShotSpotter detection system. Responding units arrived on scene and discovered Hightower suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts, the teenager was later pronounced dead.
Court records reveal Wilburn now faces serious charges that could carry significant prison time if convicted.
A probable cause statement provided by investigators indicates that surveillance footage from the area captured the moments leading up to the shooting. The video reportedly shows Hightower and Wilburn engaged in a brief but heated verbal exchange before Wilburn produced a firearm and opened fire. Authorities say the footage corroborates witness statements and formed the basis of the charges filed against him.
Police have not disclosed the exact nature of the dispute, but investigators believe the confrontation escalated quickly, leaving little chance for de-escalation. Detectives continue to piece together the sequence of events and are urging anyone with additional information to step forward.
This tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, where residents are mourning the loss of a young life cut short. Family members and friends of Hightower describe him as a bright, outgoing teenager with aspirations for the future. Community leaders, while grieving alongside the family, are once again raising concerns about the alarming frequency of youth gun violence in the St. Louis region.
“Another young person is gone because of senseless gun violence,” said one community advocate. “We have to do more to protect our children and stop disputes from ending with bullets.”
As the case moves forward, Wilburn remains in custody while prosecutors prepare for legal proceedings. Meanwhile, tributes to Damonte Hightower continue to pour in on social media, where friends and classmates have shared memories and expressed heartbreak over his untimely death.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department or submit an anonymous tip to CrimeStoppers.
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