On Tuesday evening, October 10, 2023, at Sherman Park in St. Louis, a youth football coach was shot during a training session.

Shaquille Latimore, while training a team of children aged nine to ten, was reportedly shot by Daryl Clemmons. Clemmons, a previous coach and parent of a player on Latimore’s team, allegedly fired multiple rounds at the coach. The coach, aged 30, suffered gunshot wounds to his leg, arm, back, and abdomen during the practice.

The shooting appears to have been motivated by Clemmons’ dissatisfaction with his son’s limited playing time in previous matches. After the shooting, Clemmons, 43, voluntarily turned himself over to the police.

After the incident, Latimore underwent surgery. He currently remains in critical yet stable condition. Family members have conveyed that his spirits remain high after the surgery.

The legal consequences for Clemmons have been severe. He has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Presently, he is in custody without the possibility of bond.

The event’s impact goes beyond the individuals directly involved. Concerns have arisen regarding the children who saw the incident firsthand, with fears of potential trauma. Shaquille’s mother, SeMiko Latimore, highlighted the fundamental aim of youth sports – instilling positive values in children within a secure setting. Recognizing the need for support, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has collaborated with the city to provide counseling services for affected children and witnesses.