“To keep St. Louis safe and sound, We spread the news, we’re city-bound. With facts and truth, we light the way, For safer streets, both night and day.”

St. Louis’ Crime Chime – Weekly Whirlwind of Woes:  Overview: David E. Downing Jr., a convicted Pennsylvania homicide offender currently on parole, faces felony charges of first-degree terrorist threat and unlawful firearm possession in St. Charles, Missouri. Authorities state Downing escalated an August 20 work performance dispute at the Lewis & Clark Career Center by flashing a high-capacity “Mini Draco” firearm, threatening a mass shooting, and demanding $1,000 from each crew member under threat of violence.

Convicted killer on parole faces fresh felony counts after allegedly flashing a drum-fed Draco and demanding extortion cash from terrified roofing coworkers.

Parole Violation to Prison Cell: David E. Downing Jr. Faces Mandatory Hard Time for Gun Possession and Terrifying St. Charles Construction Crew

On Zumbehl Road the morning started late,

A roofer stepped on site and tempted fate.

The foreman spoke of hours lost and slow,

And watched the tension quickly start to grow.

To cool the air before the sparks could rise,

The bosses called for lunch beneath the skies.

Out in the lot, the quiet took a turn,

With tales of past misdeeds and bridges burned.

Old photos shown to prove a violent name,

A boast of street crimes never tied to blame.

Then from the shadows came a heavy weight:

A compact Draco primed to alter fate,

A hundred-round drum locked into the frame,

A deadly weapon in a reckless game.

With mind-altering substances passed in hand,

The line was crossed upon that shifting sand.

When work resumed, the bosses drew the line,

Discharging him until another time.

Before a dozen men who watched the scene,

He made a pledge both venomous and mean:

A whispered threat to bring the gunfire back,

To settle up the score with an attack.

The evening fell, but trouble did not cease,

A phone call shattered every hope of peace.

A grand from every man upon the crew,

Or blood would spill for what they chose to do.

The builders scattered, frozen by the dread,

Too terrified to earn their daily bread.

The owner dialed the law to break the spell,

And shut the gates before the hammer fell.

Now courtrooms wait and heavy charges stand,

For words of terror on Missouri land.

From heartbreaking losses to shocking crimes, these stories paint a sobering picture of the challenges facing our communities. Let’s hope for justice, healing, and a safer tomorrow.

St. Louis Crime Chime: Partnering for a Safer Community

The St. Louis Crime Chime is evolving into a mission-driven organization dedicated to partnering with local public safety agencies and community-focused media, such as The Evening Whirl and Real STL News, to shine a light on social and violence-related issues. Our goal is to provide resources that support both victims and perpetrators of traumatic events, fostering healing and prevention within our community.

Through its St. Louis Crime Chime section. This essential platform empowers residents by highlighting emerging threats and safety concerns, encouraging vigilance and informed decision-making. Beyond reporting, it holds individuals and institutions accountable by keeping arrests and legal proceedings in the public eye, promoting transparency and urging neighbors to protect and support one another.

While the headlines often confront difficult truths, they also serve as a rallying cry for action. By staying informed through reliable sources and official police data, residents can move beyond fear and take an active role in prevention and community-building efforts. Together, we can transform awareness into meaningful change, helping St. Louis write a safer, more hopeful chapter for all.

What You Can Do

• Get Mental Health resources help for you and your family
• For daily updates, check the SLMPD Crime and Investigations page.
• For anonymous tips to the St. Louis police, use the St. Louis Regional CrimeStoppers Hotline at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477)
• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for free and confidential support. We provide free & confidential support to people in crisis for any reason, 24 hours a day.
• StopBullying.gov: Offers resources and help lines, including options for youth and veterans (Dial 988 then press 1). 
• Protect our children: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/keeping-kids-safe/can.htm

Stay tuned, stay safe, and remember: “If it’s crime you seek, we’ve got the streak.

David E. Downing Jr., a convicted Pennsylvania homicide offender currently on parole, faces felony charges of first-degree terrorist threat and unlawful firearm possession in St. Charles, Missouri. Authorities state Downing escalated an August 20 work performance dispute at the Lewis & Clark Career Center by flashing a high-capacity “Mini Draco” firearm, threatening a mass shooting, and demanding $1,000 from each crew member under threat of violence.