The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis is investigating the death of an 18-year-old Eureka High School student as a homicide, according to a written statement.
Kiley Kennedy of Eureka was found dead Wednesday morning (Dec. 1) lying next to a vehicle near the Victoria Gardens mobile home community north of Pacific in Franklin County, authorities reported Thursday (Dec. 2).
Rockwood School District Board of Education president Jamie Bayes read a statement about the teen’s death during the board meeting Thursday night (Dec. 2) at Rockwood Summit High School.
“We will continue to wrap our arms around each other and work together to heal as a community,” Bayes said.
Eureka High Principal Corey Sink said counselors were available to students at the school today (Dec. 3).
“The sudden death of a student can be overwhelming,” Sink said in an email. “I know our hearts are heavy, and in times like these, we are hurting and confused. EHS is a close, caring community that loves each other like family.”
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office was called at about 7 a.m. Wednesday after the body was seen on the ground near the mobile home community at Hwy. 100 and Country Aire Lane. The Major Case Squad has since been asked to lead the investigation, Lt. Tom Wilkison of the Major Case Squad said in a written statement.
The circumstances leading up to and surrounding the incident are being actively investigated, the Major Case Squad reported.
Investigators are asking anyone with information about Kennedy’s death to call a tip line at 636-583-2560, ext. 3002 or 3004. Those who want to remain anonymous or are interested in a possible reward may call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).
This is the second time in the last month the Rockwood district has dealt with the loss of a student. In November, Rhegan Sajben, 15, and Jacob Keifer, 15, who both attended Marquette High School, died in a crash in Ballwin, police reported.
Cole Anello, 18, who was a sophomore at De Smet Jesuit High School, also died in the accident, and two other Marquette High students were seriously injured, authorities reported.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to benefit Kennedy’s family. The page is called “Go Fund Me For Kiley K.,” and as of this morning (Dec. 3), $2,050 had been donated.