Business owners are calling for extra patrol and lighting to help fight crime in Soulard

ST. LOUIS – A shooting in Soulard is sparking new concerns about crime in the neighborhood as longtime business owners worry about security threats and are urging police and the city to do more.

According to police, two gunmen fired bullets on Ann Avenue, hitting about 10 cars.

Police said although personal and property crime is down compared to this time last year, many residents and business owners said shootings and burglaries are common. On 9th Avenue, Hair Fetish Salon owner Jeff Bunyard said he also saw the ebb and flow.

“You can hear gunshots in the distance pretty much every night,” Bunyard said.

However, he said he was optimistic that more would be done to help.

“I think more police presence would be good for one, and maybe some more lighting,” Bunyard said. “There are some really dark areas of Soulard.”

Near the 1860 saloon, the owner said they try to stay one step ahead of crime but would like to see more patrols and officers on the street.

“During busy times we have someone in our lot to make sure the cars are safe,” said Tom Gullickson, owner of 1860 Saloon, Game Room & Hardshell Café. “We take all of our employees to their cars at the end of the night … But it means being aware of your surroundings.”

“It angers me that people come into our neighborhood or into our neighborhood and ruin the neighborhood that we have and affect the neighborhood,” Gullickson said. “And that’s not right because it’s such a great neighborhood.”

A spokesman for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department made the following statement:

“The 3rd Ward regularly meets with Soulard residents at community meetings to address any issues that arise in the neighborhood. Plans are currently underway to add additional patrol measures which will include support from our special forces.”

There are currently no suspects in Friday’s shooting.

SLMPD encouraged anyone with information to contact them or CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477), where you can remain anonymous.

https://fox2now.com/news/missouri/business-owners-call-for-extra-patrol-and-lighting-to-combat-crime-in-soulard/ Business owners are calling for extra patrol and lighting to help fight crime in Soulard