Authorities in St. Charles have released the identity of the man fatally shot by police during a domestic disturbance on Friday evening. The victim has been identified as 34-year-old Frankie Navarro, according to officials.
The incident unfolded around 6:30 p.m. when officers were dispatched to a home in the 600 block of Hickory Dale Drive following reports of a violent domestic altercation. Upon arrival, police encountered Navarro, who was reportedly armed with a knife and engaged in a physical struggle with a woman on the front porch of the residence.
Investigators stated that officers gave multiple commands for Navarro to drop the weapon, but he refused to comply. Moments later, Navarro allegedly charged toward one of the responding officers, prompting the officer to discharge his firearm. Navarro was struck and fell to the ground as officers quickly moved in to secure the scene.
Emergency personnel were called to provide aid, but despite immediate life-saving efforts, Navarro was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman involved in the altercation was evaluated by medics but did not require hospitalization, authorities said.
The St. Charles Police Department confirmed that the officer who fired the shot has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure while the investigation is ongoing. The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis has been activated to lead the inquiry and ensure an independent review of the incident. Detectives are currently interviewing witnesses and reviewing body camera footage to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Officials have asked anyone with additional information or video footage from the area to contact investigators as they work to piece together what transpired. Community members have expressed concern and sorrow following the deadly encounter, as police continue to stress that their priority is ensuring a transparent and thorough investigation.