Outrage and heartbreak are exploding on social media and in St. Louis after a woman was killed in cold blood Tuesday while in line at a Starbucks in the Tower Grove South neighborhood.
The victim has been identified as Sam Linehan, 28, who worked as a restaurant manager and a coach for skating teams in St. Louis.
“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of our beloved Coach Sam,” a post by Metro Edge Figure Skating Club & St Louis Synergy Synchro Skating Teams reads.
“Coach Sam Linehan was a cherished skater, coach, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the ice. A dedicated leader, Coach Sam devoted time and heart to supporting and developing skaters while instilling the values of discipline, teamwork, integrity, and resilience.”
St. Louis City Police Wednesday arrested Keith Lamon Brown, 58, in connection with the killing and a string of recent armed robberies. Authorities linked Brown to the crimes through surveillance footage showing him in a neon safety vest, and by recovering stolen items during a SWAT raid at his home.
Brown, a parolee with an extensive criminal history, now faces charges of first-degree murder, robbery and armed criminal action. He is currently being held without bond.
Reaction on X to the shocking murder is replete with frustration toward the justice system and accusations of media bias.
The cutting criticism is centered on the fact that a career felon with convictions dating back to 1986 was free to commit murder despite his recent parole violations.
Moreover, there’s a strong belief among observers that if the races of the victim and suspect were reversed, the story would receive wall-to-wall coverage in the media. Users are adopting the hashtag #SayHerName to demand the same level of national recognition and marches typically seen in other high-profile cases of violence.
The skating club she was a coach for didn’t mention the murder but asked for privacy for the family.
“This loss is both sudden and profoundly heartbreaking for athletes, staff, and the entire skating community. Focus remains on supporting Sam’s family and ensuring skaters have the care and resources needed during this incredibly difficult time. Respect for the privacy of Sam’s family and loved ones is kindly requested as they grieve. Coach Sam will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always a part of this community.”
