A tragic and disturbing incident unfolded in University City on Monday, leaving one woman dead and another injured, and resulting in serious charges filed against Raniyah Smith, Dawneeyale Foster, and Jayla Moore, according to court documents. University City Police Department officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 6600 block of Etzel, where they discovered a female victim deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. A second individual was also found suffering from gunshot injuries and was transported to a hospital for emergency care.
Investigators Trace Incident Back to Alleged Drug-Related Arrangement
Court documents describe a series of events that investigators believe led up to the fatal shooting. According to the information, cell phone records revealed text messages arranging a drug transaction in the area where the incident took place.
Authorities state that Defendant Jayla Moore allegedly picked up Defendant Raniyah Smith, Defendant Dawneeyale Foster, and an unidentified male referred to as “Lucky.” Investigators allege that Moore was aware the group was headed to a drug-related meeting.
Once they arrived near the 6600 block of Etzel, the four remained inside the vehicle while two individuals stood outside. Police say the unidentified male handed money to one of the individuals outside, who then showed him a Percocet pill. At that moment, investigators allege that Foster exited the vehicle and approached the pair.
Multiple gunshots were then fired.
Authorities state that Foster returned to the car immediately, and surveillance video reportedly captured the vehicle fleeing the scene while additional gunfire came from inside the vehicle.
Identifications and Evidence
A witness familiar with Defendant Raniyah Smith reportedly provided investigators with social media information and later identified Smith in a photo lineup. Police also believe that cell phone data places Defendant Foster’s device at the scene, according to investigative documents.
Charges
Based on the investigation, the following charges have been filed:
- Raniyah Smith – Charged with 2nd-degree murder, bond: $500,000
- Dawneeyale Foster – Charged with 2nd-degree murder, bond: $500,000
- Jayla Moore – Charged with attempted possession of a controlled substance, bond: $100,000
These are charges, not convictions. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
A Community Shaken
This senseless act of violence has shocked the community and devastated the victim’s family, who are now faced with unimaginable loss. Another individual remains injured, and many lives have been deeply affected by what occurred.
Our heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to the victim’s family and loved ones during this painful time.
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