A knife-wielding suspect was shot and killed early Friday morning at St. Louis Lambert International Airport after refusing to comply with police orders, authorities said.
According to Fox News, the incident occurred around 1:05 a.m. local time in Terminal 1 while STL Airport Police officers were conducting routine security checks. Officers encountered an adult male carrying a knife, according to St. Louis County Police.
“The suspect refused to drop the weapon and was tased by one police officer. The suspect continued to advance towards officers, and a second police officer fired his service weapon, striking the male suspect,” police said. “He was pronounced deceased on scene.”
Both officers involved have prior law enforcement experience and have been with STL Airport Police for six months and one year, respectively. The St. Louis County Police Bureau of Crimes Against Persons is reviewing the incident. The suspect has not been publicly identified.
Airport officials described the situation as a tragedy but said operations continued with minimal disruption.
“Today’s incident in Terminal One was a tragic event for our Airport Community. However, I take great pride in our response. As police responded and county authorities conducted their investigation, we were able to continue normal operations at STL,” Airport CEO Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge told KSDK.
The Terminal One MetroLink station was closed for about three hours while authorities responded, and shuttle buses transported riders to Terminal Two. “The airport is cooperating with the St. Louis County Police Department as they continue their investigation,” Hamm-Niebruegge added.
Authorities did not provide additional details about the suspect’s motive or identity. Investigators continue to review security footage and interview witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident marks another high-profile use-of-force case at a major U.S. airport, highlighting the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to armed individuals in crowded public spaces.
STL Airport officials said they remain committed to passenger safety and thanked travelers for their patience during the response.
