Former Figure Skater Gabrielle 'Sam' Linehan Killed in Starbucks Drive-Thru Shooting

Suspect Keith Lamon Brown, with a lengthy criminal history, has been charged with the murder.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Gabrielle 'Sam' Linehan, a former Team USA figure skater who was working as a coach, was shot and killed in an alleged robbery at a Starbucks drive-thru in St. Louis. Police have arrested 58-year-old Keith Lamon Brown, who has a long criminal record, and charged him with first-degree murder and other offenses.

Why it matters

Linehan's death has devastated the local figure skating community, where she was remembered as a 'cherished skater' and 'dedicated leader.' The shooting also raises concerns about public safety and repeat offenders in the St. Louis area.

The details

According to police, on February 10, 2026, Linehan was in the Starbucks drive-thru when she was shot. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, Keith Lamon Brown, fleeing the scene on foot. Brown was arrested the next day and charged with first-degree murder, robbery, and firearms offenses. Authorities believe the motive was robbery, as Brown is accused of stealing Linehan's bank cards and driver's license.

  • On February 10, 2026, Linehan was shot and killed in the Starbucks drive-thru.
  • On February 11, 2026, police arrested 58-year-old Keith Lamon Brown and charged him with the murder.

The players

Gabrielle 'Sam' Linehan

A former Team USA figure skater who was working as a coach when she was murdered.

Keith Lamon Brown

A 58-year-old man with a lengthy criminal history, including burglary, robbery, and armed criminal action, who has been charged with Linehan's murder.

Metro Edge Figure Skating Club

The skating club where Linehan coached and was remembered as a 'cherished skater' and 'dedicated leader.'

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What they’re saying

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of our beloved Coach Sam.”

— Metro Edge Figure Skating Club (Facebook)

“Coach Sam was a cherished skater, coach, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the ice. A dedicated leader, Coach Sam devoted time and heart to supporting and developing skaters while instilling the values of discipline, teamwork, integrity, and resilience.”

— Metro Edge Figure Skating Club (Facebook)

“My daughter woke up at 4:30 a.m. today and said she couldn't sleep. I asked her what was wrong, and she said, 'I miss Coach Sam so much.' We cried together… Sam had been coaching my daughter in synergy team for two years, she is always inspiring, caring, making skating so much fun. We loved Coach Sam, she was very special. Sam will be missed so much.”

— Anonymous woman (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Keith Lamon Brown out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for stronger measures to address repeat offenders and ensure public safety, particularly in high-crime areas like St. Louis. The figure skating community has lost a beloved coach and mentor, underscoring the profound impact violence can have on local communities.