Mario Shackelford Killed In Dispute Over Spilled Beer

An argument which started over a spilled beer ended in the death of a 29-year-old Missouri man and the jailing of his 34-year-old friend, police said.

Held without bail for murder is Stephen Rozier Jr. of St. Louis. The victim has been identified as Rozier's friend, Mario Shackelford.

According to St. Louis police the two men, along with a third unnamed individual, were riding in a car, drinking alcohol just before midnight on Thursday. While traveling near the intersection of 7th and Market Street, Rozier allegedly spilled his beer inside the vehicle, sparking an argument.

The argument allegedly escalated into a fight, at which time police say Rozier pulled out a handgun and fired several shots into Shackelford’s chest. After the shooting Rozier attempted to flee the scene, but was chased by the other individual who was riding in the vehicle.

Police say Rozier attempted to shoot his other friend, but the gun malfunctioned. A struggle ensued, and the man was able to subdue Rozier while a passing witness secured the handgun in the trunk of a vehicle until police officers arrived.

Shackelford was pronounced dead at the scene. Rozier was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for a head injury. The third man, identified only as a 27-year-old male, was treated at the scene for minor cuts and abrasions.

Rozier has been charged with second degree murder, first degree assault, two counts of armed criminal action and unlawful possession of a firearm. Rozier has previous drug and weapons convictions, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Jail records do not list an attorney for Rozier.