A seemingly kind gesture during Sunday’s snowstorm in the Central West End turned into a shocking crime, leaving a St. Louis man shaken and searching for answers.

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A Helping Hand in the Snow

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, a 40-year-old man found himself stuck in the snow while attempting to enter the parking garage at the Parc Frontenac apartments on 40 Kingshighway Boulevard. Just as frustration mounted, a man driving an SUV stopped to lend a hand.

Parc Frontenac apartments on 40 Kingshighway Boulevard. (Google Maps)
Parc Frontenac apartments on 40 Kingshighway Boulevard. (Google Maps)
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The good Samaritan appeared experienced, assuring the victim, “I’ve helped four other people already. This will be quick.” Grateful for the assistance, the victim parked his car in the garage, relieved to be out of the cold.

Help Takes a Dangerous Turn

However, moments after parking, the same man reappeared, this time with a gun. The assailant demanded the victim’s car keys in a startling twist. “It never crossed my mind that he was about to pull out a gun,” the victim recounted, still grappling with the ordeal.
The victim complied, handing over his keys, before retreating to call the police. To his surprise, when officers arrived, his car was still parked safely in the garage, untouched by the would-be thief.

criminal with gun replica waiting for a duel on street
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Investigation Ongoing

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, treating it as an armed robbery. Police urge anyone with information to contact their department at 314-444-0001 or submit an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477), which offers rewards for valuable leads.

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