Gabrielle “Sam” Linehan, a former Team USA synchronized skating medalist and beloved figure skating coachwas tragically killed in a shooting at a Starbucks drive-thru in St. Louis, Missouri on Tuesday morning. The 28-year-old was fatally shot while sitting in her vehicle, prompting an outpouring of grief from the local skating and restaurant communities.

Police say the suspect in the shooting, 58-year-old Keith Lamon Brownapproached Linehan’s car shortly after 10 a.m. at a Starbucks in the Tower Grove East neighborhoodordered her to raise her hands, and then opened fire. Linehan was transported to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. Brown was later arrested and charged with first-degree murder, multiple counts of robbery, armed criminal actionand unlawful possession of a firearm.

Who was Gabrielle “Sam” Linehan?

Linehan was recognized in the skating world both as a competitor and a coach. She had represented Team USA in synchronized skatingearning a silver medal at the 2014 U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships — a significant achievement in one of the sport’s most competitive national events.

After her competitive career, Linehan stayed deeply involved in the sport as a coach with Metro Edge Figure Skating Club in nearby Webster Groves, Missouri. Teammates and fellow coaches described her as dedicated, inspiring, and passionate about nurturing young talent. “Coach Sam Linehan was a cherished skater, coach, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the ice,” the Metro Edge team wrote in a tribute following her death.

Community Remembers a Mentor and Friend

Linehan’s role extended beyond athletics. She was also known locally for her work at two popular St. Louis restaurants, where coworkers said she had built close relationships over many years. Tributes on social media praised her enthusiasm, kindness, and positive influence on both skaters and friends alike.

Skating coach Ramona Peterson, who worked with Linehan for years, remembered her as “one of the most naturally talented kids I had coached,” noting not just her athletic ability but her dedication and character.

Suspect’s Arrest and Charges

Authorities say Brown was already wanted in connection with two other armed robberies in the days leading up to the Starbucks shooting. Surveillance footage showed him wearing a high-visibility vest and helmet during the incidents, which involved at least one other shooting and multiple thefts.

Officers arrested Brown early Wednesday and recovered evidence linked to multiple crimes, including stolen items, the safety gear seen in surveillance footage, and suspected narcotics. He remains held without bond at the St. Louis City Justice Center.