AFFTON, Mo. — A high-speed police chase involving an SUV concluding in tragedy Friday night in south St. Louis County resulted in the deaths of a man and a woman, authorities said Saturday.
Missouri State Highway Patrol identified the victims as 30-year-old Delisha Evans and 33-year-old Ryan Phillips, both previously in a relationship marked by severe complications. The saga began in Princeton, Texas, where police had earlier issued a critical missing person alert for Evans following a fire at her residence, raising alarms about her safety.
The chase commenced after Texas authorities alerted Missouri officers that Phillips could be heading towards St. Louis in a red Range Rover, potentially with Evans in tow and her safety at risk. Witnesses spotted the vehicle hurtling along Interstate 44 before it dramatically overturned on South Rock Hill Road near Pardee Road in Affton.
Following the crash, a state trooper discharged their firearm. Both Phillips and Evans were declared dead at the scene. While police recovered a firearm near the wreckage, they have not confirmed whether shots were directed at the officers involved.
“The incident escalated quickly, prompting an intensive law enforcement response,” said an eyewitness, Kyle Moder, whose home overlooks the crash site. According to Moder, the sound of 10 to 15 gunshots pierced the air, followed by the sight of police with shields, signaling the severity of the situation.
Prior to the fatal incident, Evans, affectionately known as DeDe, and Phillips had begun dating in November of the previous year and had tumultuous interactions, as noted by Salomi Momoh, a friend of Evans. Momoh revealed troubling aspects of Phillips’ past, including threats against Evans and a criminal record entailing assault against law enforcement. Phillips had been released from prison on probation in September 2021 after serving time for his involvement in a 2014 shooting involving police officers.
Momoh also highlighted Evans’ dedication as a mother and her vibrant personality, traits well-loved by those who knew her. In a tragic twist, Evans was reportedly not alive when taken on the fateful car ride with Phillips, a claim still under investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation was ongoing, with autopsy results pending to further clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
In response to the event, the local community and advocates against domestic violence have rallied to honor Evans and address the broader issue. Saint Martha’s, a ministry under Catholic Charities, plans to commemorate Evans in their memorial garden, which recognizes victims of domestic violence.
Jessica Woolbright, Executive Director of Saint Martha’s, spoke on the tragic necessity of their mission. “Since last year, 76 names have been added to our garden. Each represents a life cut tragically short, a reminder of the work still needed to combat domestic violence,” Woolbright said.
Evans’ family is currently fundraising for her surviving daughters, who are now in the care of their father, having lost everything in the fire that destroyed their home.
For those in need of support, several resources in the St. Louis area offer assistance to individuals experiencing domestic violence, including Saint Martha’s crisis hotline and Safe Connections Crisis Helpline, both accessible via phone or text during specified hours. Alternatives to Living In Violent Environments also provides crisis intervention services across the region.