Body camera footage released in April 2026 shows 17-year-old Emeshyon Wilkins being fatally shot by a St. Louis police officer in June 2024, contradicting earlier police statements that claimed he pointed a gun at officers.
The June 18, 2024 encounter began when detectives attempted to stop an SUV reported stolen. Wilkins, who had just turned 17 weeks before, fled the scene on foot. An officer can be heard ordering him to get on the ground and drop a weapon before firing four shots, one striking Wilkins in the back of the head, killing him.
The newly released video does not show Wilkins holding or pointing a weapon. According to a lawsuit filed by Wilkins’ family, a disassembled firearm incapable of firing was later found in his pocket. Wilkins’ attorney, Albert Watkins, stated that Wilkins had saved money from a job at McDonald’s to purchase the vehicle, unaware it was stolen.
Wilkins’ mother, Shaina Wilkins, described her son as a “goofy” teenager who enjoyed math and planned for his future. She said the video was devastating to watch and criticized police for their handling and communication about the incident. Early reports had inaccurately claimed Wilkins pointed a gun, which police have since acknowledged was not consistent with the video evidence.
The case has exposed concerns about transparency within the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD). During a March 2026 deposition, Officer Brett Carlson, who fired the shots, invoked his Fifth Amendment rights and declined to answer questions regarding the incident, body camera footage, his training, or department policies. He is currently on paid desk duty.
The SLMPD stated that information provided immediately after the shooting was inconsistent with events and footage. They also updated internal protocols to ensure body camera units respond promptly to scenes to facilitate faster and more accurate public communication.
The body camera footage was released only after Wilkins’ family filed a federal lawsuit, with the attorney remarking it took more than a year to obtain. The St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to consider whether criminal charges are warranted.
Shaina Wilkins has called for accountability, urging the department to acknowledge wrongdoing and for Officer Carlson to face legal consequences. She emphasized that her son was not a criminal but a young person remembered for his humor and hopeful aspirations.
Why it matters
This case highlights ongoing issues of police accountability and transparency in officer-involved shootings, particularly involving minors. The delay in releasing body camera footage and conflicting initial reports have intensified public scrutiny of law enforcement agencies. The legal outcome could influence police conduct policies and community trust in St. Louis and beyond.
Background
Emeshyon Wilkins was shot during an attempted stop of a reportedly stolen vehicle. Missouri law allows concealed carry of firearms but prohibits possession by minors, complicating arguments around the gun found in his pocket. This incident adds to broader debates about youth interactions with police and use-of-force protocols.
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