A St. Louis man is facing multiple felony charges after police say he opened fire on a group of men he believed were breaking into his vehicle, killing one person and seriously injuring another.
According to authorities, Timothy Kemper, 39, has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and three counts of armed criminal action in connection with the shooting that occurred on July 16.
Police Say Kemper Saw Men Going Through His Vehicle
According to a probable cause affidavit, Kemper, who lives on the second floor of a nearby apartment building, noticed a group of males gathered around his parked car. Investigators say he saw one of the men enter the vehicle and begin searching through its contents.
Authorities have not determined whether Kemper fired from inside his apartment or went outside before confronting the group.
Two Men Shot, One Dies
Police allege that after seeing someone inside his vehicle, Kemper retrieved a firearm and fired several rounds at the group.
According to investigators, two men were struck by the gunfire. One victim later died from his injuries after being taken to a hospital. The second victim survived but suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the mid-back, left flank, left arm, and right side of the chest.
The victims were transported to a hospital before officers arrived at the scene.
Suspect Surrenders to Police
The investigation began after police received a report from the hospital about two gunshot victims.
According to the affidavit, Kemper later surrendered to responding officers and admitted that he was the shooter. He was taken into custody and questioned by homicide detectives.
His attorney later stated in court filings that Kemper is a lifelong St. Louis resident who was acting in self-defense during the incident.
Surveillance and Vehicle Evidence
Investigators say surveillance cameras captured the group walking through the neighborhood before the shooting. The footage allegedly shows them checking the handles of parked vehicles before one individual entered Kemper’s car.
Police also examined Kemper’s vehicle and reported that it had been broken into and rummaged through, supporting claims that someone had entered the car before the shooting occurred.
Charges Filed
After reviewing the evidence, homicide detectives presented the case to the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office.
Prosecutors approved charges of:
- First-degree murder
- First-degree assault
- Unlawful use of a weapon
- Three counts of armed criminal action
The charges are allegations, and Kemper is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Preliminary Hearing Set
Court records show that Timothy Kemper is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on August 17. The case will continue as prosecutors and the defense present evidence regarding the fatal shooting and Kemper’s claim that he acted in self-defense.
