St. Louis, MO — Man Charged with Murder in the Tragic Killing of 24-Year-Old Alexcia Ayers
After months of heartbreak, questions, and relentless pursuit of justice, the family of Alexcia Ayers may finally be a step closer to closure. On June 12, 2025, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department announced the arrest of 24-year-old Deontai Glasper, who now stands charged with multiple offenses in connection with the fatal shooting of Alexcia late last year.
Alexcia Ayers, just 24 years old, was gunned down on the night of December 29, 2024, inside an apartment building in the 700 block of Carr Street. Police were dispatched to the scene just before 10 p.m., where they found Ayers unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the swift arrival of EMS, she was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving her loved ones and the wider community devastated.
For months, Alexcia’s family waited in agony as investigators worked to uncover what happened that tragic night. Her family, friends, and community held vigils, posted tributes, and pleaded for answers while remembering Alexcia as a vibrant, loving, and determined young woman. Described by those who knew her as someone full of life and promise, her senseless killing sent ripples of grief throughout the city.
Now, in a major development, police say that Deontai Glasper, also 24, has been identified as the shooter. He was taken into custody without incident and is facing a series of serious felony charges, including:
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Murder in the First Degree
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Armed Criminal Action
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Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
The St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office has formally filed the charges against Glasper. He is being held in custody, and court proceedings are expected to begin soon. Officials have not yet released information about the motive behind the killing, and detectives emphasize that the investigation is still ongoing.
For Alexcia’s grieving family, the arrest is a significant moment in a long journey of sorrow and uncertainty.
“This doesn’t bring Alexcia back,” said one family member in a statement, “but we are relieved that progress has been made. We are thankful to the detectives who never gave up, and we hope justice is fully served.”
Those who knew Alexcia continue to honor her memory in personal and powerful ways. She was remembered not only for her beauty and intelligence but also for her kind spirit, ambitious nature, and commitment to helping others. Her smile could light up a room, and she had a way of making people feel truly seen.
“She was more than a victim—she was a daughter, a friend, a sister, a role model,” said a close friend. “This world is a dimmer place without her in it.”
As the legal process moves forward, the community remains hopeful that this arrest marks the beginning of accountability and healing for all affected. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has asked that anyone with additional information about the incident contact their Homicide Division or CrimeStoppers to assist with the continued investigation.
A memorial foundation is reportedly being established in Alexcia’s name, aimed at supporting young women and victims of gun violence—ensuring that her legacy of strength and compassion endures.
In the words of her family, “Justice for Alexcia is not just about a conviction—it’s about remembering her light, honoring her life, and working toward a world where tragedies like this never happen again.”