Police Shoot and Kill Knife-Wielding Man at St. Louis Airport

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — November 21, 2025 — Police fatally shot a man armed with a knife at St. Louis Lambert International Airport on Friday after he refused to comply with officers’ commands to drop the weapon, authorities said.

The incident occurred in the airport terminal, where officers responded to reports of a man carrying a knife and acting in a threatening manner. Upon arrival, officers confronted the suspect, who did not comply with orders to disarm. After the man advanced with the knife, officers discharged their weapons, fatally wounding him.

Officials said the suspect’s identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin. No other individuals were reported injured during the encounter.

Airport operations were briefly disrupted but have since returned to normal, according to authorities. Security measures were heightened temporarily as police conducted their investigation.

Law enforcement agencies involved in the response are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The St. Louis Police Department and airport security personnel are cooperating in the ongoing inquiry.

Details about the suspect’s motives or background have not been disclosed. Authorities have not indicated whether the incident was linked to any broader threat or if the suspect had any known criminal history.

The shooting marks a rare use of lethal force at the airport, which handles millions of passengers annually. Officials emphasized that the officers acted in accordance with established protocols when faced with an immediate threat to public safety.

Witnesses at the scene described a tense situation that escalated quickly, prompting a swift police response. No additional suspects were involved, and the situation was contained shortly after the shooting.

The investigation remains active, and officials have asked anyone with information or video footage related to the incident to come forward to assist with the inquiry.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport is the primary commercial airport serving the St. Louis metropolitan area. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining safety and security for travelers and staff.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.