Former Team USA Figure Skater Killed in Starbucks Drive-Thru Robbery

Suspect with lengthy criminal record charged with murder of 28-year-old coach Gabrielle "Sam" Linehan

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A former Team USA figure skater named Gabrielle "Sam" Linehan was reportedly shot and killed in a Starbucks drive-thru in St. Louis, Missouri during an alleged armed robbery. The suspect, 58-year-old Keith Lamon Brown, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, robbery, and weapons offenses. Court records show Brown has a criminal history dating back to 1986, including prior convictions for armed criminal action.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing problem of violent crime and the need for criminal justice reform, particularly around repeat offenders. Linehan's death has devastated the figure skating community, where she was a beloved coach at the Metro Edge Figure Skating Club.

The details

According to police, Linehan was sitting in her car at a Starbucks drive-thru when she was shot and killed during an alleged armed robbery. Surveillance footage showed the suspect, Keith Lamon Brown, wearing a high-visibility vest and white helmet at the time of the shooting. A SWAT team later executed a search warrant at Brown's home, where they found evidence linking him to two prior robberies just days before Linehan's murder.

  • The shooting occurred on Tuesday, February 14, 2026 shortly after 10 a.m.
  • Brown was arrested early Wednesday morning, February 15, 2026.

The players

Gabrielle "Sam" Linehan

A 28-year-old former figure skater who represented Team USA from 2013 to 2015 and was a coach at the Metro Edge Figure Skating Club.

Keith Lamon Brown

A 58-year-old convicted felon with a criminal history dating back to 1986, including prior convictions for armed criminal action. He was charged with first-degree murder, robbery, and weapons offenses in Linehan's death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Brown is being held without bond at the St. Louis City Justice Center as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for stronger measures to address repeat violent offenders and protect vulnerable members of the community. Linehan's death has devastated her skating family, who remember her as a talented athlete and beloved coach.