LOUIS, Mo. – A woman who was kidnapped in Clayton has been found dead in St. Louis, according to local police.
Authorities are still searching for the suspect, though a vehicle of interest has been seized. Police also confirmed that the victim’s car was recovered Wednesday night.
The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Michelle Hampton. While police officially released her identity on Thursday afternoon, her family and friends publicly named her on Wednesday.
Colleen Hayden, a close friend who worked with Hampton for nearly four years, shared her grief. “I already miss her so much, and the last thing I said to her was, ‘I’ll see you tomorrow,’” Hayden said.
Community Urged for Patience as Investigation Unfolds
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St. Louis Metropolitan Police stated that Hampton was abducted around 7 a.m. Wednesday by an armed suspect from Whitburn Drive in Clayton. The suspect reportedly forced her to drive to St. Louis.
“She was really kind and genuine,” Hayden added. “She was always there for me and supported me.”
The motive for the kidnapping remains unclear, with police continuing to piece together the circumstances of the crime.
Witness Encounter and Harrowing Pursuit
A family member of Hampton witnessed the kidnapping and followed the suspect while on the phone with emergency operators. During the chase, the suspect allegedly fired shots at the family member near Euclid and Enright.
Police reports show that the incident occurred just before 7:30 a.m., less than 30 minutes after Hampton was abducted. Fortunately, the family member—identified as Hampton’s twin sister—and two nephews were unharmed.
“We had to clean the glass out of her car, which was awful,” Hayden said, recounting the emotional toll.
Tragic Discovery
Hampton’s body was found around 11 a.m. in the 4700 block of Greer Avenue. She had been fatally shot.
“She was my best friend,” Hayden said through tears.
Authorities Seek Information
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and Clayton Police are working closely on the investigation. Officials emphasized that it is still in the early stages and urged anyone with information to contact the department or Crimestoppers.
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