32-Year-Old Chauncia La’Shell Meekins Shot and Killed While Working at Steak ‘n Shake in Bellefontaine, Police Say

A tragic shooting at a Steak ‘n Shake restaurant in Bellefontaine, Missouri, late Wednesday night resulted in the death of 32-year-old Chauncia La’Shell Meekins, who was shot while working at the fast-food establishment. Another employee was injured in the incident, which authorities say stemmed from a dispute with customers in the drive-thru.

According to the St. Louis County Police Department, the shooting occurred around 11:35 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Steak ‘n Shake located in the 11000 block of Bellefontaine Road. Officers arrived to find Meekins and a male coworker both suffering from gunshot wounds inside the restaurant. Tragically, Meekins was pronounced dead at the scene. The male victim, who was also struck by gunfire, was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police say the fatal incident followed a confrontation in the drive-thru between customers and employees over an unspecified issue, reportedly related to an order. During the argument, someone inside the vehicle pulled out a firearm and fired shots through the drive-thru window, striking the two employees before fleeing the scene. The shooter or shooters have not been apprehended.

 

“It’s devastating that someone’s life was taken over something so petty,” said a spokesperson for the St. Louis County Police Department. “Meekins came to work like any other day, trying to earn a living, and sadly didn’t make it home. She leaves behind a family and a community who loved and cherished her.”

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information to come forward. St. Louis County Police are currently working to identify the suspect(s) involved.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. To remain anonymous and potentially receive a reward, tips can also be submitted to CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).