On the night of April 24, 2025, 25-year-old Kelsey Elem was shot during a domestic disturbance at a home in the 5800 block of Grace Avenue in Affton, Missouri. Officers arrived around 11:15 p.m. and found Elem with a life-threatening gunshot wound; she was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Police say the altercation involved 21-year-old Martino Lewis, who had been in a romantic relationship with Elem. A witness reported Lewis punched Elem, and Elem told that witness she feared Lewis would retrieve her firearm and asked them to call 911. While the witness was on the phone, a single gunshot sounded inside the home. Lewis was later found in St. Louis City in Elem’s vehicle and, after questioning, admitted a physical altercation had occurred. Prosecutors charged Lewis with second-degree murder, armed criminal action, and domestic assault; bond was set at $400,000.

Family described Elem as a generous community advocate with roots in Atlanta and East St. Louis who often helped strangers and people experiencing homelessness. A funeral service was held the following month. If anyone knew Kelsey or has information about the events on April 24, please come forward.