Robert Townsend

'We just want an arrest,' says mother of Metro East teen shot, killed outside Cahokia Heights McDonald's

Fairview Heights police said the shooting happened at the Trailway Motel.

"It freaked her out. We are so thankful that they checked her out quickly and she's okay," said Deputy Commander Blake Carrigan.

The suspect has been identified as 49-year-old Ike Buchanan of St. Louis. He is being held on firearm and tampering charges.

"We are aware its gonna be hot, but we're hoping people decide to still come out to the blues music festival," said Arielle Claypool.

"We've have been dealing with this during the 20 years we've been here. That's too long," said Ralph Spradley.

"I still can't believe it. What if I had not driven down my street? Would my property had been demolished?" said Terry Owens.

"It's difficult. It's surreal. We don't have my mom anymore and it's not fair," said Maya Kemp.

"Somebody should have saved this dog, and I tried so hard," said neighbor Becky Siebert.

The church's air conditioning units had already been replaced after being destroyed in the May 16 tornado, according to Strong.