ST. LOUIS — A man was arrested and charged after police said he robbed a White Castle and shot an employee Thursday afternoon in University City.
Police said the robbery happened at around 3:40 Thursday afternoon at the location on the 700 block of Olive Street. They said the man entered the restaurant, demanded money and began shooting before anyone could hand over any cash.
A 5 On Your Side crew saw several University City police units at the White Castle on 7380 Olive Blvd. Investigators were speaking to White Castle employees as officers went in and out of the building and K-9 units searched on Mt. Vernon Avenue near the scene.
In a Friday evening update, University City police said Matthew Sabir was arrested and charged with first-degree assault, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. His bond was set at $250,000 cash only.
Sabir, 37, is from Wentzville.
The restaurant was closed to the public as of Thursday as police investigate.
Anyone with information is asked to call University City Police at 314-725-2211, ext. 8010 or CrimeStoppers at 866-371-8477.
This is a developing story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.
Resources for crime victims:
If you have been a victim of a crime or know someone who has been, 5 On Your Side has compiled a list of resources.
Better Family Life is a nonprofit community development organization working to “stabilize inner-city neighborhoods.” One aspect of its mission is a gun violence de-escalation program.
To learn more, call 314-381-8200 or visit https://www.betterfamilylife.org/
Life Outside of Violence “helps those harmed by stabbing, gunshot or assault receive the treatment, support and resources they need to find alternatives to end the cycle of violence.”
To learn more, call 314-327-6697 or email: ProjectLOV@WUSTL.edu
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has an anti-crime program called “Safety Net for Youth Initiative,” which is a joint partnership with Saint Louis Public Schools to provide services to at-risk youth.
To learn more, visit https://www.ulstl.com/anti-crime-initiative.html
Cure Violence is an international organization that has recently launched in a handful of St. Louis neighborhoods. Violence interrupters are trained to deescalate violent situations within their own communities. To learn more, visit https://cvg.org/
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