Gabrielle “Sam” Linehan, a 28-year-old figure skating coach, was fatally shot in a St. Louis Starbucks drive-thru on Feb. 10, 2026.
Incident Details
Linehan was in her vehicle at 2030 South Grand Blvd. around 10 a.m. when suspect Keith Brown, 58, allegedly approached, demanded she raise her hands, shot her, and stole her bank cards and driver’s license in a robbery. Surveillance captured him fleeing on foot, wearing a construction vest and helmet. She died at a hospital.
Skating Background
Former Team USA synchronized skater with St. Louis Synergy (2013-2015), earning silver at 2014 U.S. Championships (junior level). Competed juvenile to senior levels, won Gold in Skating Skills. Coached at Metro Edge Figure Skating Club, praised as a “dedicated leader.”
Arrest and Charges
Brown arrested Feb. 11 via SWAT raid; evidence from her case plus two prior robberies (Dollar General, Jack in the Box) recovered, including vest/helmet. Faces first-degree murder, 3x robbery 1st, 4x armed criminal action, unlawful firearm possession. No bail; next court March 11.
Tributes
Metro Edge: “Sudden and profoundly heartbreaking.” Coach Ramona Peterson (knew her since age 10): “Like losing part of your soul.” Synergy focuses on family/skater support. Tragic random violence—contrasts cold case wins in recent news.
