A married couple, Willie Herndon, 42, and Taiya Herndon, 45, are facing charges in connection with the shooting death of 17-year-old Alyssa Wilson on Interstate 170 in St. Louis County, Missouri. The specific charges have not yet been released. Charges are allegations, and the Herndons are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
What Happened
Wilson, a McCluer North High School senior, was shot while driving on southbound I-170 near Midland Boulevard on the night of Wednesday, October 14. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but died from her injuries.
Police have not said what led to the shooting or how Wilson and the Herndons may be connected, if at all. The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis is continuing to investigate.
Charges Expected to Be Detailed
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis scheduled a press conference for 11 a.m. Monday, October 19, to announce additional details, including the exact charges against the couple. This article will be updated when that information is available.
Remembering Alyssa Wilson
According to McCluer North High School, Wilson was a senior, a student-athlete and an office aide who planned to attend college next year. She had recently celebrated homecoming, took part in ROTC, and planned to join the Army after graduation.
Her family remembers her as bright, loving and resilient, a young woman who had overcome significant challenges and was looking forward to college, military service and the future ahead of her. Family members say she bought her own car with money she had worked to save.
What’s Next
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis. This is a developing story.

