Beloved Figure Skating Coach Killed in 'Random' Starbucks Drive-Thru Shooting

Police charge Keith Brown, 58, with first-degree murder in the death of 28-year-old Sam Linehan.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 28-year-old figure skating coach was shot and killed while sitting in her car in a Starbucks drive-thru in St. Louis. Police have charged 58-year-old Keith Brown with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm in the random attack.

Why it matters

The tragic and seemingly random killing of a beloved community figure has left the local skating community in shock and mourning. The incident also raises concerns about public safety and the ability of repeat offenders to commit violent crimes.

The details

According to police, Brown approached Linehan's car in the Starbucks drive-thru, pointed a gun at her, and demanded she raise her hands before shooting and killing her. Brown then stole Linehan's bank cards and driver's license. Brown is a convicted felon who was wanted for parole violations at the time of the incident and is suspected in two other armed robberies in the days leading up to Linehan's death.

  • The shooting occurred on Tuesday in the Starbucks drive-thru.
  • Brown is charged with crimes that allegedly took place in the days leading up to the fatal shooting.

The players

Sam Linehan

A 28-year-old figure skating coach who was a staple of the St. Louis skating community, serving as a coach with the Metro Edge Figure Skating Club.

Keith Brown

A 58-year-old man charged with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm in Linehan's death. Brown is a convicted felon who was wanted for parole violations at the time of the incident.

Jamie Mathews Schieler

Linehan's former coach who remembers her as a great student and one of the funniest people.

Ashley Klotz

Linehan's friend and fellow skater who said Linehan gave everything to her students.

Abbie Brown

A friend of Linehan's and fellow skater who is angry and confused about the tragedy.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She was starting her day and getting coffee at Starbucks. It's just the unfortunate horrific situation of wrong place, wrong time. It's heartbreaking.”

— Jamie Mathews Schieler, Linehan's former coach (WKYT)

“Sam gave those kids everything she has and she did. I think the world is missing out on somebody that cared as much as Sam did about all of those kids.”

— Ashley Klotz, Linehan's friend and fellow skater (WKYT)

“I'm angry and confused as to why something like this happened. And why it happened to somebody that's so important to so many people.”

— Abbie Brown, Linehan's friend and fellow skater (WKYT)

What’s next

Brown remains jailed as he awaits his next court date. Police said he is suspected in two other armed robberies in the days leading up to Linehan's death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the devastating impact of random violence and the need for comprehensive criminal justice reform to address repeat offenders and ensure public safety, especially in local communities.